Key Takeaways
- Five Carleton community members have been named to the Order of Canada for their outstanding contributions to Canadian society
- The appointees include leaders in academia, art history, law and human rights, philanthropy, and public service
- The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honors, with three levels of appointment: Companion, Officer, and Member
- The appointees have made significant contributions to their respective fields, including advancing human rights, promoting philanthropy, and driving institutional change
Introduction to the Order of Canada Appointees
The Carleton community is proud to announce that five of its members have been named to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors. These individuals have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to enriching the lives of others in Canada, and their achievements are a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence and public service. The appointees include a former Carleton president, faculty members, and alumni, who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
The Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella
The Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella, a former Carleton honorary degree recipient, was named a Companion of the Order. Abella is a highly respected jurist who has made significant contributions to the advancement of human rights and social justice. She was the first Jewish woman to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada, and her opinions have often cited foreign and international law. Abella’s landmark constitutional rulings have had a profound impact on the advancement of equality and human rights globally, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of lawyers and judges.
The Honourable Janice Charette
The Honourable Janice Charette, a Carleton alumna and former public servant, was named an Officer of the Order. Charette has had a distinguished career in public service, serving as clerk of the Privy Council and diplomat. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to serving Canadians, and her expertise in government and non-partisan leadership has been widely recognized. Charette’s commitment to public service is a testament to the values of integrity, dedication, and excellence that are core to the Carleton community.
Reesa Greenberg and Susan Phillips
Reesa Greenberg, an adjunct professor of art history, and Susan Phillips, a professor emerita of political science, were both named Members of the Order. Greenberg has made significant contributions to the field of art history, advancing feminist and exhibition studies in Canada. Her philanthropic efforts have also had a lasting impact on the country’s cultural institutions. Phillips, on the other hand, has shaped the field of non-profit research and has guided hundreds of students and scholars in their academic and professional pursuits. Her award-winning scholarship and editorial leadership have positioned Carleton as an international leader in non-profit and philanthropic studies.
Roseann Runte
Roseann Runte, a former president and vice-chancellor of Carleton, was promoted to Officer of the Order. Runte has driven significant institutional change throughout her career, overseeing major infrastructure expansion and raising the university’s national and international profile. Her leadership has had a lasting impact on the Carleton community, and her commitment to academic excellence and public service continues to inspire future generations of students and scholars.
About the Order of Canada
The Order of Canada is the pillar of the Canadian honours system, established in 1967 by Queen Elizabeth. The Order recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity, and is one of the country’s highest civilian honors. The Order has three levels of appointment: Companion, Officer, and Member, and is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society. The latest appointments to the Order of Canada were announced on December 31, 2025, by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, and recognize the exceptional achievements of 80 individuals, including the five Carleton community members.
