February 28, 2007
OTTAWAMr. Claude Laverdure, Ambassador of Canada to France, presented the insignia of the Order of Canada to Mr. Hubert Reeves on behalf of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, in Paris, France, on February 26, 2007. Mr. Reeves was promoted to the level of Companion on October 30, 2003.
The following text is the official citation for Mr. Reeves:
Hubert Reeves, C.C., O.Q.Paris, France; and Montreal, QuebecCompanion of the Order of Canada
An internationally renowned astrophysicist, cosmologist and writer, Hubert Reeves is also one of our most outstanding popularizers of scientific knowledge. This eminent researcher with the National Centre for Scientific Research in Paris also shares his knowledge elsewhere, notably at the physics department of the Université de Montréal. Recognized as a remarkable communicator, he uses a wide range of media to reach academics and the public. His professional skills are equalled by his exceptional humanity. As a mentor, adviser and a philanthropist, he contributed to the creation of a permanent scholarship fund for the study of astrophysics at Université Laval. In addition, this dedicated scientist devotes a great deal of energy to ecological causes.
This is a promotion within the Order
An Order of Canada backgrounder is attached.
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ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER
The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of human endeavour. It is our country's highest honour for lifetime achievement.
Three different levels of membershipCompanion, Officer and Memberhonour people whose accomplishments vary in degree and scope.
Appointments are made on the recommendation of an advisory council, chaired by the chief justice of Canada. The governor general is the Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.
Membership in the Advisory Council reflects the diversity and excellence in Canadian society. Certain members are appointed by virtue of their office; others are appointed for a fixed term to achieve a balanced representation of the various regions of the country.
The current members of the Advisory Council are:
· The Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin, P.C., Chief Justice of Canada (Chair) · The Honourable Thomas R. Berger, O.C. · Dr. Patricia A. Demers, President, Royal Society of Canada: The Academies of Arts, Humanities and Sciences of Canada · Mr. Richard Francis Haskayne, O.C. · Mr. Tom Jackson, O.C. · Ms. Karen Kain, C.C., Chair, Canada Council for the Arts · Ms. Judith A. LaRocque, C.V.O., Deputy Minister, Canadian Heritage · Dr. Daurene E. Lewis, C.M. · Mr. Kevin Lynch, Clerk of the Privy Council and Secretary to the Cabinet · Mr. L. Jacques Ménard, O.C. · Ms. Bonnie M. Patterson, Chair, Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada
Any group or individual is welcome to nominate deserving individuals as candidates for appointment.
Any Canadian may be nominated for the Order of Canada. The only exceptions are federal and provincial politicians and judges, who may not be appointed while holding office.
Non-Canadians may be considered for honorary appointments.
