The City of Ottawa has revealed the distinguished recipients of the 2025 Order of Ottawa, with former mayor Jim Watson among the prominent community leaders being recognized for their exceptional contributions to the nation's capital.
Prestigious Civic Honors Awarded
The Order of Ottawa represents one of the city's highest civilian honors, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and service to the Ottawa community. The announcement, made on November 27, 2025, highlights the continued tradition of acknowledging those who have made significant impacts across various sectors of municipal life.
Jim Watson, who served as Ottawa's mayor from 2010 to 2022, stands out among this year's honorees. His lengthy tenure included steering the city through numerous challenges and achievements, from infrastructure development to pandemic response. The recognition comes three years after his departure from municipal politics.
Celebrating Diverse Community Contributions
While the complete list of recipients hasn't been fully detailed in initial reports, the Order of Ottawa typically honors individuals from diverse backgrounds including arts, business, philanthropy, public service, and community activism. The awards ceremony is expected to take place in early 2026, following the traditional timeline for such recognitions.
The Order of Ottawa medal, featured in promotional materials on the city's official website, symbolizes the highest level of achievement in community service and civic contribution. Established to mirror similar honors at provincial and national levels, the award maintains strict criteria for selection, ensuring only the most deserving individuals receive this prestigious acknowledgment.
Continuing a Tradition of Recognition
This year's awards continue a longstanding tradition of celebrating Ottawa's most engaged and dedicated citizens. The timing of the November announcement allows for proper planning of the formal presentation ceremony, which typically occurs in the new year. Previous recipients have included educators, healthcare workers, volunteers, and business leaders who have left lasting positive impacts on the community.
The inclusion of a former mayor among honorees underscores the non-partisan nature of the award, recognizing service regardless of political affiliation. Jim Watson's recognition follows his decades-long career in public service, which included roles as both mayor and Ontario cabinet minister before his retirement from elected office.
As Ottawa continues to grow and evolve, awards like the Order of Ottawa play a crucial role in highlighting the individuals whose efforts make the city a better place for all residents. The 2025 cohort joins an esteemed group of past recipients who have shaped the character and quality of life in Canada's capital city.
