Seven individuals with connections to McMaster, including a world-class oncologist, a professor emerita and a former deputy prime minister, have been recognized for their work and contributions in this summer’s appointments to the Order of Canada.  

This week, the governor general announced the appointments of 83 accomplished Canadians to the order — one of the country’s highest civilian honours.  

“Congratulations to the newest appointees to the Order of Canada,” said Governor General Mary Simon.  

“We proudly recognize each of these individuals whose dedication and passion for service not only enrich our communities but also help shape the fabric of our nation. Together, they inspire us to strive for greatness and to foster a future filled with hope and possibility.” 

Learn more about the McMaster faculty members, graduates and community members recognized for their extraordinary contributions to Canada:

John Manley 

Political and business leader John Manley, who earned Chartered Director credentials from the Director’s College at the DeGroote School of Business, was a federal minister for more than 10 years, board chair of three major Canadian public companies and head of a national business association.  

Manley, who served Canada’s deputy prime minister during his time in cabinet, has been promoted to a Companion of the Order of Canada. 

Peter Rosenbaum  

Peter Rosenbaum, a professor of Pediatrics who has transformed child disability care, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada.  

Rosenbaum is a trailblazer in developmental pediatrics, particularly the care of children with cerebral palsy and their families.  

His major contributions include the promotion of family-centred service and creation of the internationally adopted Gross Motor Function Classification System, which emphasizes ability over deficits.  

Click here to learn more about Peter Rosenbaum

Saroj Saigal 

A professor emerita of Pediatrics, Saroj Saigal has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in recognition of her work in shaping the field of neonatology.  

Saigal is internationally renowned as the first researcher to examine the lives of extremely premature infants from a qualitative perspective and is praised for this humanistic approach.  

She has shifted attitudes towards preterm infants and increased our understanding of their long-term outcomes. 

Click here to learn more about Saroj Saigal

Timothy Whelan  

Professor Timothy Whelan, a world-class radiation oncologist, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada. 

Whelan’s research has redefined radiation therapy’s use in the treatment of breast cancer, improving survival rates and limiting side effects. He has mentored many trainees, solidifying the reputations of McMaster University and the Juravinski Cancer Centre as leaders in oncology clinical trial training. 

Click here to learn more about Tim Whelan

Allison Eddy  

Two-time McMaster graduate Allison Eddy is a retired professor and clinician scientist at the forefront of pediatric nephrology.  

Recognized internationally for her research into kidney fibrosis and the connection between inflammation and kidney scarring, Eddy has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada.  

She is also a passionate mentor who has helped train the next generation of pediatricians and kidney disease specialists. 

Claudette McGowan 

Claudette McGowan, who received an honorary degree from the DeGroote School of Business last year, is a visionary leader in information technology.  

The founder and CEOof Protexxa, a Canadian-based cybersecurity company with international reach, she has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada.  

McGowan is an advocate for women and for the promotion of digital human rights within the technology industry and across global communities. 

Homer Tien 

McMaster graduate Homer Tien is a trauma surgeon at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and a former front-line military physician.  

Tien works to improve trauma care for people in remote areas, including injured soldiers and First Nations communities.  

As president and CEO of the Ornge air ambulance service, Tien fosters a stronger connection between civilian and military health care systems.