Bisons named to 2026 Order of Canada

An inspirational group of Canadians with strong ties to the University of Manitoba are being appointed to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours. 

The Governor General’s June 26 announcement named 61 new appointees from across the country, including leaders in health care, diplomacy, reconciliation, science, business and the arts who have helped shape national and international conversations. Many have connections to UM. 

Among the appointees are:

• Donald K. Johnson [BSc(EE)/57; LLD/08]: A University of Manitoba electrical engineering graduate and renowned investment banker and philanthropist whose advocacy to remove capital gains tax on gifts of publicly listed securities has transformed charitable giving and strengthened cultural, health and educational institutions across Canada.
• Loreena McKennitt [LLD/05]: A recipient of on honorary degree in 2005, she is a world‑renowned musician whose “eclectic Celtic” recordings, independent label and community leadership have brought international recognition to Canada.
• Dr. Peter Nickerson [BSs(Med)/86; MD/86]: An alum and Dean of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, his research program made monumental discoveries on how the body can reject a kidney transplant leading to approaches saving countless lives. He also led the development of a national transplant program improving outcomes for high‑risk patients and reshaped transplant care across Canada.
• Ryan Bresser (Ry) Moran: A Red River Métis citizen and founding director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at UM, his leadership helped communities come together to open the important archive that now guides Canadians’ understanding of truth and Reconciliation.
• Donald Colin Robertson [BA(Hons)/76]: A career diplomat, commentator and UM alumnus whose expertise in Canada–United States relations and international trade has helped shape policy discussions and public understanding of Canada’s role in the world.

The new appointees will be formally invested into the Order of Canada at a future ceremony presided over by the Governor General.