Key Takeaways:
- Four-time Olympian Ellie Black and Mi’kmaw ethnologist Roger Lewis are among the latest Nova Scotian appointees to the Order of Canada.
- The Order of Canada recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the country in various fields, including sports, culture, and social justice.
- Other notable appointees include Dalhousie University president Kim Brooks, emergency medicine expert Patrick Croskerry, and entrepreneur Mandy (Bear) Rennehan.
- The appointees were recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to their respective fields, inspiring others to make a positive impact.
Introduction to the Order of Canada Appointees
The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest honors, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada in various fields. Recently, Gov. Gen. Mary Simon appointed 80 Canadians to the order, including several notable Nova Scotians. Among them are four-time Olympian Ellie Black and Mi’kmaw ethnologist Roger Lewis, who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to their respective fields. Black, a renowned athlete, has represented Canada in multiple Olympic Games, while Lewis has dedicated his career to preserving Mi’kmaw cultural heritage in Nova Scotia.
The Achievements of Ellie Black
Ellie Black, a four-time Olympian, has been appointed to the Order of Canada for her exceptional contributions to the world of sports. As a gymnast, Black has represented Canada in multiple Olympic Games, demonstrating her exceptional skill and dedication to her craft. In a statement, Black expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating that representing Canada has been one of the greatest privileges of her life. She hopes that this recognition will inspire young people to believe in themselves and pursue their passions, creating lasting and meaningful change. Black’s appointment to the Order of Canada is a testament to her hard work and commitment to her sport, serving as a role model for aspiring athletes across the country.
The Contributions of Roger Lewis
Roger Lewis, a Mi’kmaw ethnologist, has been recognized for his tireless efforts to preserve Mi’kmaw cultural heritage in Nova Scotia. A member of the Sipekne’katik First Nation and a survivor of the Shubenacadie residential school, Lewis has dedicated his career to promoting and protecting the cultural heritage of his community. He has worked as a curator at the Nova Scotia Museum and has helped lead efforts to identify unmarked graves at the site of the former residential school. Currently, Lewis serves as the vice-president of the board of directors at the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre. His appointment to the Order of Canada acknowledges his significant contributions to the preservation of Mi’kmaw culture and his commitment to social justice.
Other Notable Appointees
In addition to Black and Lewis, several other notable Nova Scotians have been appointed to the Order of Canada. Dalhousie University president Kim Brooks and emergency medicine expert Patrick Croskerry have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields. Mandy (Bear) Rennehan, an entrepreneur and TV personality, has also been appointed to the Order of Canada for her work advocating for women and underrepresented individuals in the skilled trades. Rennehan, originally from Yarmouth, N.S., but now living in Ontario, expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating that it has made her "smile and raise a glass." These appointees demonstrate the diversity of talent and achievement in Nova Scotia, highlighting the province’s significant contributions to Canadian society.
Conclusion and Reflection
The recent appointments to the Order of Canada highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society. The appointees, including Ellie Black, Roger Lewis, and others, serve as role models and inspirations for others, demonstrating the impact that one person can have on their community and the country as a whole. As Canada continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to acknowledge and honor the achievements of individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a positive difference. The Order of Canada appointments serve as a reminder of the importance of leadership, progress, and positive impact, inspiring others to strive for excellence and make a lasting difference in their respective fields.


