The Public Service Award of Excellence 2023

Patrick Gadoury

Mr. Gadoury, Manager of the Detector Dog Training Program at the Canada Border Services Agency, has significantly contributed over 26 years by integrating new detection specialties and expanding detector dog teams. He oversaw the construction of the CBSA College’s Canine Center of Expertise and fostered partnerships with organizations like the Correctional Service of Canada and the World Customs Organization. His efforts led to a new detection specialty for interdicting cell phones in federal penitentiaries, with the first dogs graduating in August 2023. His leadership and dedication have profoundly impacted border security and public safety, inspiring his colleagues.

Dr. Noureddine Bénichou

Dr. Noureddine Bénichou, a leader in fire safety and wildfire resilience, has established wildland‑urban interface (WUI) fire research at the National Research Council of Canada and led the development of Canada’s first-ever National Guide for WUI fires. Adoption of the Guide is estimated to save 2,300 lives and avoid $500 billion in losses.

He mentors the next generation in fire experimentation, data analysis and modelling. A testimony to his groundbreaking contributions, he received the 2022 Researcher of the Year Award from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs and the 2021 Sjölin Award from the International Association for Fire Safety Science.

Dr. Shabtai Bittman

Shabtai Bittman has made significant contributions in the fields of sustainable agriculture and environmental management - locally, nationally and internationally. Working with colleagues, Shabtai has developed practices that can be used to reduce nutrient surpluses, protect environmental health and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, while enhancing productivity.  His knowledge and expertise are routinely sought out by international agencies developing standards and policies in the areas of ammonia mitigation and nitrogen management. Shabtai Bittman’s work is on agriculture at peri-urban interfaces and his current contributions to the Agricultural Climate Solutions Living Labs bridge scientific research with practical solutions, benefitting Canada and beyond.

Allison Zaldivar

Allisson Zaldivar has dedicated the past six years to the negotiation and implementation of the bilateral early learning and childcare agreements with provinces and territories. As a manager of federal/provincial/territorial relationships, she is an inspiration and a devoted team member. With her extensive knowledge, innovative ideas, and resourcefulness, Allisson is a model of excellence and strong ethics. She has played a crucial role in designing the approach to negotiations of the Early Learning and Child Care Infrastructure Fund, enabling provinces and territories to further support growth in their child care sector. Allisson’s contribution is exceptional. 

Jean Cintrat

Jean Cintrat has just retired after an impressive career spanning more than 30 years. Following a political career serving several federal ministers, Jean joined the ranks of the public service. He rose through the ranks and held various positions at Health Canada and Public Safety, before joining the Privy Council Office in 2018. A dedicated public servant and compassionate leader, Jean inspired his colleagues and employees with his kindness, generosity and knowledge of parliamentary affairs. Jean has always demonstrated dedication to his work, professionalism, integrity and strong ethics. His colleagues and employees have nominated him for this award to formally recognize the impact he has made.

988: Suicide Crisis Helpline team

The launch of 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline on November 30, 2023, supported by the Public Health Agency of Canada and in collaboration with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, was an important step to make suicide prevention resources more readily available to everyone across the country. The 9-8-8 helpline provides people in Canada with access to 24/7/365 trauma-informed and culturally appropriate suicide prevention support through phone and text, in both official languages, from anywhere in the country. The nominated team ensured the successful, timely launch of 9-8-8 completing an array of challenging tasks requiring disparate and significant expertise.

• Stephanie Priest
• Stéphanie Parisien
• Isabel Giardino
• Beth Stanley
• Tara-Lynn Guenette
• Caroline Renart
• Tamara Serjak
• Blair Jones
• Afifa Mahboob
• Gisselle Hyslop
• Louise Guay
• Simona Birea
• Kathryn Lipic
• Laura Drope
• Laura Stephen

Co-founders of the Canadian CubeSat Project

Alfred and Tony are the visionary leaders who created the Canadian CubeSat Project (CCP). Since they inaugurated the CCP in 2017 in honour of Canada 150, well over 2000 university students from 15 teams representing every province and territory designed, built and launched their own miniature satellites, known as CubeSats, thanks to Alfred and Tony. They built a well-rounded, hands-on training program to give the students the basics in how to build, test and operate a real space mission, including all of the technical, project management and leadership skills, like public outreach. Alfred and Tony went above and beyond the program, though, and served as mentors to students from all disciplines—from engineering to arts—coaching them to succeed in their missions. Their personal passion and dedication inspired the students to rise above the many technical challenges they faced, and motivated them to persevere during the most difficult periods of the pandemic. Thanks to their professional excellence and personal dedication, Alfred and Tony have shaped an entire generation of students, who are the future leaders and innovators for Canada’s tomorrow.

• Alfred Ng
• Tony Pellerin

Project Kickstart

For the planning, organization, and execution of CSE’s flagship analytic and technological workshop, Project Kickstart. This two-week event brings together over 100 participants from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the US to solve complex intelligence challenges. Participants work in cross-functional teams, exploring innovative projects. This year's theme was machine learning and AI, yielding breakthroughs crucial for Canadian safety and security. Project Kickstart fosters multidisciplinary collaboration, adherence to ethical values, and the development of lasting relationships. The exceptional contributions of the participants continue to inspire and drive excellence in security and intelligence within CSE.

Robinson Huron Team

In finalizing the largest settlement with First Nations to date in Ontario, the Robinson Huron/Restoule annuities negotiation team displayed a high level of skill on all aspects of negotiations, and in particular:

• A high level of collaboration with internal and external partners, including representatives of the Robinson Huron First Nations and the Government of Ontario
• Innovative approaches to negotiations, including the inclusion of Anishinaabe practice in the negotiation process
• Ethical principles in their work even under pressure with short deadlines as negotiations progressed

The team also inspired and motivated colleagues and partners with their professionalism and work ethic.

• Jeremy Morrison
• Emily Smith
• Bryan O'Meara
• Anna Willman
• Natalie Gardiner
• Stephane Le Lostec
• David Horan-Lunney
• Matthew Fletcher
• Nicole Bauman
• Michael Boyd
• Glynis Evans
• Shannon McEvenue

Rachel Nghiem

Rachel is a model public servant, exemplifying integrity and commitment as a Communications Advisor at Global Affairs Canada. Notably, she was awarded the 2023 New Employee of the Year, within the Public Affairs Branch.

Recently, she was the communications lead for the 54th Caribbean Development Bank Annual Meeting, with over 300 dignitaries. Rachel also led the social media plan for Global Environmental Facility Assembly. Here, she was recognized with a nomination for the Government of Canada's 2023 Platinum Award of Communications Excellence. Her leadership, collaboration and adaptability during both international events were instrumental in highlighting Canada on the International stage.

Sancho Angulo

Sancho Angulo is the founder and Co-Chair of Infinity - The Network for Neurodivergent Public Servants, the first interdepartmental network dedicated to empowering and fostering belonging for neurodivergent employees across the federal public service. Since its launch in February 2023, Infinity has grown to more than 1,500 members across 82 federal institutions, becoming the largest government-wide neurodiversity network in the G7. Infinity has taken on various activities to foster inclusion and promote understanding of neurodivergent employees including, socials and networking mixers, online communities, and a biweekly newsletter. As an advocate, Infinity is driving important enterprise-wide conversations about embracing neurodiversity in the workplace. It has encouraged many program areas to rethink how they design and implement programs and initiatives to better consider the needs of neurodivergent people. Most importantly, Infinity's greatest impact is on its members, who feel a greater sense of belonging at work because of Infinity's existence.

Ella Myette

As a Senior Consultation Analyst, Ella is a fierce champion of increased Indigenous leadership in federal assessments of major resources development or infrastructure projects. Ella worked hard to build trusting relationships with potentially impacted Indigenous communities throughout the environmental assessment of a northwestern Ontario mining project. She sought creative ways to support these communities in conducting Indigenous-led assessments of the project. Ella is steadfast in her commitment to ensure advice prepared by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada is informed by Indigenous perspectives. Ella is a force for positive change within the federal public service. She cares for her peers and advocates for a healthy, inclusive public service workforce. She promotes a diverse and vibrant regional office and pushes for continual growth and innovation among her colleagues and for herself.

Wildland Fire Intelligence and Predictive Services Team

The Wildland Fire Intelligence and Predictive Services Team worked tirelessly to deploy operational science to support decision-making during Canada’s unprecedented wildfires of 2023 and deliver on Government of Canada priorities to keep Canadians safe and informed during natural disasters. Last year Canada experienced a record-breaking wildfire season that started in May and continued relentlessly into September with damaging fire activity across the country. The Team put in countless hours around the clock to provide a range of wildfire intelligence and predictive services, including weather forecasting, fire behaviour and fire growth modelling, and tactical fire mapping to inform fire management operations on the ground. The vital real time data provided by the Team, such as the proximity of active fires to towns and critical infrastructure (e.g., major roads) helped to inform decisions around emergency management to keep Canadians safe. The information produced by the Team also helped to keep Canadians informed during stressful and uncertain times. The Canadian Wildland Fire Information System, the online site housing the Team’s data received tens of millions of visits from fire professionals, the media and the public seeking data and information.

• Brian Simpson
• Sam LaCarte
• Alan Cantin
• Dawn McVittie
• John Little
• Brent Glowinski
• Justin Beckers
• Peter Englefield
• Richard Carr
• Ginny Marshall
• Chris Stockdale
• Marc Lachance

User Building Conversion Plan

The User Building Conversion Plan (UBCP) is a critical component of a four-billion-dollar energy modernization program, the Energy Services Acquisition Program. UBCP’s mandate is to modernize 61 buildings for greener energy, contributing to the Government of Canada's goal of reducing Greenhouse Gas (GhG) emissions. This program is on track to contribute 15% of the departmental GhG emission reduction targets. The team transformed a high-risk program into a model for innovation and excellence in the Department. The team built strong partnerships, worked in collaboration, and demonstrated efficient management to deliver the program ahead of schedule and 120 million dollars below budget.

• Manon Baril
• Hélène Tremblay-Chute
• Mélanie Chénier
• Ivana Arambasic
• Stephanie Plourde
• Isabelle Carrière
• Ahlem Tobdji
• Paul Stewart
• Walid Elgazzar
• Sabah Ali
• Aleksandar Janjic
• Jérémie Maillet-Leblanc
• Carole Beauchamp
• Margaret Musclow

Jewish Affinity Group and Middle Eastern and North Africa Affinity Group Collaboration

CSE’s Jewish and Middle Eastern and North African Affinity Groups are employee led groups that exist as support, awareness and advocacy networks. They have provided exemplary leadership for CSE ensuring that the internal climate remains peaceful and safe throughout the conflict in Israel, Gaza and Lebanon. On October 8, 2023, they issued a joint statement advocating for peaceful relations, dialogue, and support for employees with ties to the region. This set a positive tone of conduct, leading to further support statements, meetings, and joint sessions addressing the conflict’s impact. These groups have also educated CSE on Islamophobia, Xenophobia, and Antisemitism, fostering a safe environment at CSE and offering support during a challenging time.

• Adam C.
• Nora Renard
• Chris A.
• Ahmed Hamdani

Sana Abou Shaaban

Sana Abou Shaaban has significantly advanced Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) at the CBSA. As a public speaker and co-creator of the Women in Information, Science and Technology Branch (WISTB) Network, she has empowered women in STEM. Her advocacy for gender equality and professional development has led to tangible outcomes in recruitment and retention. Sana’s initiatives, including career development events and hybrid work sessions, enhance workplace inclusivity. She also champions environmental stewardship and promotes the Value and Ethics Code for the public sector. Her leadership and dedication make her a shining example for Canadian public servants.”

Emma Sobel

In Emma’s role as Senior Advisor to CSE’s Chief on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, she developed and implemented “One CSE: The Collection,” an organization-wide initiative that gamified EDI principles. Over the course of a year, this initiative encouraged staff to take concrete actions that led to significant advancement of CSE’s EDI goals among its 3200+ employees. Playing cards were used to represent EDI actions, earning points for branches and promoting camaraderie. Emma’s leadership on this innovative approach increased employee engagement with, and awareness of EDI topics. It made CSE a more inclusive workplace where employees feel welcome and included. This initiative positioned all employees as active participants in shaping CSE’s future.

Mary Anne Stevens

Mary Anne has contributed to the creation of the foundational elements that guide all public servants in demonstrating integrity, enabling to maintain Canadians’ trust in the federal government institutions. Her advice and leadership are part of the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Service, the Directive on Conflict of Interest, the Public Service Disclosure Protection Act, the training on these topics offered by the Canada School of Public Service, and more recently, the responses to the Deputy Ministers’ Task Team on Values and Ethics Report to the Clerk of the Privy Council. Countless Values and Ethics practitioners across departments have received guidance from Mary Anne and her expertise is sought from stakeholders across the public service. Her dedication has influenced the creation of a values and ethics-based public service.

Indigenous Language Revitalization Project Team

In support of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action 13, 14 and 57, the Indigenous Language Revitalization Project in the W-T Region started with language training sessions for Indigenous employees, promoting diversity and inclusion. After successful Cree language sessions, it evolved into a Learning Library and interactive mapping tool, fostering reconciliation and cultural understanding. Aligned with region's commitment to reconciliation, it supports Indigenous recruitment and retention, and complies with the Indigenous Languages Act (Bill C-91). The project also advocates for a long-term Indigenous Language Resource Centre, aligning with the Government of Canada's reconciliation commitment.

• Chantel Bobst
• Jagdeep Dhadli
• Jenny Anderson
• Stephanie Cabrita

Women’s Network at Global Affairs Canada

The Women's Network had its break-out year in 2023 celebrating its 10th anniversary at Global Affairs Canada (GAC) engaging over 1000+ women and men at headquarters and missions abroad.

The Women’s Network promoted a culture of mentorship by organizing its flagship Speed Mentoring event; demonstrated policy leadership by advocating for a more inclusive foreign service to the Senate Committee.

The Women’s Network also pioneered a new Courageous Conversation Series, created innovative leadership events such as Dare to be Head of Mission? and established its first gender parity ice hockey team at GAC.

• Grace Lee
• Yvona Tous
• Sarah Pye
• Nyma Malik
• Caroline Vanderloo
• Nouhed Chabani
• Fatma Magued Diop
• Sesheeni Joud Selvaratnam
• Hellen Oriaro
• Lisa Almond
• Kathleen Young
• Alexandra MacAulay Abdelwahab
• Laurieve Menard

User Experience Optimization and IT Operations Team

The User Experience Optimization team is nominated for their efforts in promoting accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion at IRCC and eliminating technological barriers faced by employees to create a workplace where everyone can feel comfortable to login to work. The team implemented inclusive technological solutions such as the Pronouns Initiative, allowing employees to add pronouns to their Outlook and MS Teams, and the Name Change Initiative, allowing employees to change their name in IRCC email address while maintaining access to other systems. These initiatives have not only transformed our workplace but also left an indelible mark on our collective journey towards inclusivity.

• Meagan Larocque
• Noor El Astal
• Ebru Albay
• Mohamad Ibrahim
• Kelsey Clark
• Marcel Mangan
• Jenney Willbond
• Etienne Glass
• Tara Good
• Naji Otell
• Kyong Ho Kim

Tina Green

Throughout Tina Green’s distinguished 32-year career, she managed many complex files, including playing a pivotal role in a new regulatory regime for consumer products; advancing international alignment and reliance on consensus based standards, establishing and leading a new compliance and enforcement branch at Health Canada; and as Assistant Secretary at Treasury Board Secretariat, modernizing and advancing Canada’s regulatory agenda, presenting over 2200 regulations and orders to Treasury Board. Tina is a fearless leader and committed team player, demonstrating excellence and integrity, and an ability to support and challenge the broader system. Her core public service values are always front and center, inspiring many to carry forward those same important qualities into their careers.

Bruce Labrador

Bruce Labrador has 32 years of service with the Government of Canada. Throughout his career, he has distinguished himself by his dedication to supporting the development of Indigenous communities in Quebec, in priority areas such as housing, drinking water, infrastructure, the environment and emergency management. He has always been committed to ensuring the delivery of quality services, adapted to the needs and based on the active participation of First Nations. Under his leadership, various initiatives have been implemented or have benefited from a renewed approach. Bruce Labrador has also been able to carry out its tasks by maintaining a high level of professionalism and integrity. He has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to propose courses of action that take into account several points of view and integrate different considerations, including regulatory, strategic and operational considerations, thus contributing to the advancement of various complex files for the benefit of First Nations and the Department. Through his innovative ideas, an inclusive and transformative management style, and his commitment to excellence in program delivery and public service delivery, Bruce Labrador has been an inspiration to those around him throughout his career.

Dwight Floyd

Dwight Floyd has been a constant and steady presence of Veterans Affairs Canada in North Bay, ON for over 42 years.  During this time Dwight has remained committed to mission of providing Care, Compassion and Respect to Canadian Veterans and their families across Northern Ontario.  Dwight’s career has touched and improved the lives of countless Veterans and their families as well as the many staff who he has provided leadership and support to over the years.  Dwight demonstrates professionalism, integrity and strong ethics in the day-to-day operations ensuring that Canadian Veterans and their families are honoured and recognized for their services and the sacrifices made for all Canadians.

Chair

• Dominique Blanchard
  Associate Secretary, Treasury Board Secretariat

Members

• Shelley St-George
  Director Priorities and Planning, Privy Council Office
• Sam Macharia
  Executive Director, Office of the Chief Human Resources Officer, Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat
• Alexandra Dostal
  Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
• Serge Bijimine
  Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy, Transport Canada
• Anna Fontaine
  Senior Executive Director, Knowledge Circle for Indigenous Inclusion, Canadian Heritage
• Alia Butt
  Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategic Policy, Women and Gender Equality Canada
• Diane Girouard
  Senior Web Developer, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada
• Naina Sloan
  A/President, Pacific Economic Development Canada