Western University alumni stand out among the latest recipients of the Order of Ontario, the province’s highest civilian honor. Officials announced the appointments on February 17, recognizing seven graduates, including one faculty member, for their outstanding contributions.
Ontario Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont stated, “Through their exceptional dedication and achievements, they have made profound contributions that have touched lives across Ontario and beyond. May their remarkable examples continue to inspire us all to work together for the greater good.”
The new members will receive their honors at a ceremony in Toronto later this year.
Key Honorees and Their Achievements
Amanda Grzyb, BA’94, MA’96
Amanda Grzyb, a professor in the Faculty of Information and Media Studies, earns recognition for her community-based research and efforts to preserve histories of state violence and genocide. She directs the Surviving Memory in Postwar El Salvador project, an acclaimed collaboration with artists, scholars, organizers, and Salvadoran leaders to honor sites and stories of memory.
Cameron Bailey, BA’87, LLD’18
As chief executive officer of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Cameron Bailey has elevated the event into a global cultural powerhouse. A member of Western’s Board of Governors and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, he consistently ranks among Toronto’s most influential figures.
John B.W. Carmichael, BA’74
Business leader and former federal politician John B.W. Carmichael advanced the automotive sector and STEM education. He revitalized his family’s dealership, chaired the Canadian Automotive Dealers Association, led the Canadian International AutoShow, and served as MP for Don Valley West from 2011 to 2015.
Dr. Bernard Lawless, MD’95
Dr. Bernard Lawless, who earned his medical degree and residency at Western before a critical care fellowship, excels in trauma surgery and critical care strategies. His innovations enhance trauma, pediatric, adult, and neonatal care. He practices at St. Michael’s Hospital and Toronto East General Hospital.
Tracy Moore, MA’00
Journalist Tracy Moore hosted CityLine on Citytv for over 15 years, gaining widespread acclaim. She champions anti-racism and diversity, co-creating the award-winning special Ending Racism: What Will it Take?, and supports causes in women’s health, youth, and family services.
Edward Rogers, BA’94
Edward Rogers, executive chair of Rogers Communications, received Business Leader of the Year from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in 2025. He leads in telecom and sports, chairing the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, while funding health care, education, and community programs.
Richard Rooney, MBA’81
Investment executive and co-founder of Burgundy Asset Management, Richard Rooney drives philanthropy across boards like the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, University Health Network, and Stratford Shakespeare Festival. His backing advances cultural institutions, education, and innovative theranostics at Princess Margaret.
