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June 26, 2026
JS
Jessica Smith

Four Ontario physicians appointed to the 2026 Order of Canada

The Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation

Four Ontario physicians have joined the ranks of those receiving the Order of Canada. 

As the country’s highest civilian honour, the order recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.  

“We are incredibly proud to see these outstanding Ontario physicians recognized with the Order of Canada,” said OMA President Dr. Rebecca Hicks. “From advancing life-saving treatments to strengthening patient safety and championing equity, their work is improving lives and inspiring the next generation of physicians.” 

The OMA congratulates the following Ontario physicians, who were named as Order of Canada appointees on June 26:

Recipient Citation notes
Dr. Stephen Lawrence Archer – Member
Kingston
For pioneering discoveries in pulmonary arterial hypertension that have led to new therapies and improved patient care.
Dr. Allan L. Covens – Member
Toronto
For elevating surgical treatment for gynecologic cancers and enhancing and expanding access to cancer care for women in Canada and internationally.
Dr. Beverley Anne Orser – Officer
Toronto
For advancing global understanding of anesthesia’s effects on memory, consciousness and brain function, and for worldwide leadership in patient safety.
Dr. Kona Kristen Chant Williams – Member  
Wahnapitae, Ont.
For transforming forensic pathology through culturally informed leadership, advancing equity for Indigenous communities, and championing justice and improved responses to missing Indigenous Peoples.

 

Appointees are invited to a ceremony to be invested into the order and receive their medals. 

The Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System, celebrating the achievements and wide-ranging contributions of more than 8,000 people since its creation in 1967. 

Anyone can nominate a person for the Order of Canada, with nominations accepted on an ongoing basis. Appointments are made by the Governor General on the recommendation of the advisory council for the Order of Canada. 

Read the news release to learn more about the recent appointees’ contributions.

Published: June 26, 2026  |  Last updated: June 26, 2026