Four Calgarians will receive prestigious Order of Canada recognitions this summer, Ottawa announced Friday. These are the first Orders of Canada announced by the country’s new governor general, Louise Arbour.
Appointees from Diverse Fields
The four appointees from Calgary include artist Chris Cran, jazz dance leader Vicki Adams Willis, surgeon Janice Pasieka, and biochemist Jerry Wang. More than 8,800 people from a variety of societal and professional sectors have been appointed to the Order since its creation in 1967.
“The Order of Canada recognizes those whose contributions help us see our country and our place in the world with greater clarity and purpose,” said Arbour. “These appointees, from diverse backgrounds and fields, reflect the talent and determination that shape Canada’s future.”
Chris Cran: Transformative Force in Visual Arts
Chris Cran is described as “a transformative force in the Calgary visual arts community” who has shaped generations of artists through his innovative explorations of painting. Blending traditional genres with pop-cultural sources, he playfully disrupts perception. A celebrated exhibitor, mentor, teacher and advocate, he has profoundly enriched Canada’s artistic landscape.
Vicki Adams Willis: Jazz Dance Pioneer
Vicki Adams Willis is a leader in jazz dance who has pushed the art form forward while simultaneously rediscovering and promoting the authentic roots of the genre. Co-founder and long-time artistic director of Calgary’s Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, she has advanced the arts sector in Canada and beyond with her profound and groundbreaking contributions.
Janice Pasieka: Surgical Innovator
Surgeon Janice Pasieka has helped redefine treatment for adrenal, thyroid, parathyroid and neuroendocrine disorders. She transformed co-ordinated care in western Canada by establishing multidisciplinary clinics at Calgary’s Tom Baker Cancer Centre. She also created Canada’s first American Association of Endocrine Surgeons‑accredited endocrine surgery fellowship and has mentored surgeons worldwide.
Jerry Wang: Biochemist of International Renown
Biochemist Jerry Wang is internationally renowned for his landmark discoveries that have shaped modern cell-signalling science, enzymology and neuroscience. Throughout his prolific career at the universities of Manitoba and Calgary, he has influenced research direction and solidified Canada’s reputation as a leader in biomedical innovation.
“At a time of profound global change, their achievements highlight the strength of Canadians and the values we represent to the world,” Arbour said. “Together, they remind us that building our country’s future is a shared effort that requires ambition and long-term commitment. I am honoured, for the first time as governor general, to extend my sincere congratulations to all new appointees.”
