U of T faculty, community members recognized with Order of Canada

Several University of Toronto faculty members have been recognized with the Order of Canada, the country’s highest civilian honour, in the latest round of appointments and promotions announced June 26, 2026. 

They were among the more than 60 individuals who were appointed to – or promoted within – the Order in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to Canada in medicine, science, law, public service, the arts and other fields. 

U of T alumni and friends of the university were also among those named in the latest round.

“The Order of Canada recognizes those whose contributions help us see our country and our place in the world with greater clarity and purpose. These appointees, from diverse backgrounds and fields, reflect the talent and determination that shape Canada’s future,” Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour said in a statement. “At a time of profound global change, their achievements highlight the strength of Canadians and the values we represent to the world.”

The current and former U of T faculty members appointed to the Order on June 26 include:

• Lewis Kay, a senior scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and a University Professor in the department of molecular genetics in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Kay was promoted to Companion of the Order for his work “driving innovation in biomolecular structure and dynamics research.” 
• Alison Keith, a University Professor in the department of classics in the Faculty of Arts & Science and the director of the Jackman Humanities Institute. Keith was named an Officer for her work “transform[ing] the study of Latin epic through her groundbreaking work on gender and genre.”
• Beverley Orser, an affiliate scientist at the Sunnybrook Research Institute and professor and chair of the department of anesthesiology and pain medicine in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Orser was named an Officer for her work “defining anesthesia’s molecular mechanisms.”
• Allan Covens, an affiliate scientist at the Sunnybrook Research Institute and a professor in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine. Covens was named a Member for being “a globally recognized leader in gynecological oncology.” 
• Harvey Skinner, a professor emeritus at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health who served as founding dean of the Faculty of Health at York University. Skinner was named a Member for being “a globally recognized researcher in the field of behaviour change and addictions.”

Read all of the latest appointments at the Governor General of Canada