The Order of Ontario is the province’s highest civilian honour. It is awarded to an Ontarian who has shown the highest level of excellence and achievement in their field, and whose impact has left a legacy in our province, in our country and around the world.
Members of the Order are a collective of Ontario’s finest citizens, whose contributions have shaped — and continue to shape — the province’s history and place in Canada.
Excellence in any field
You can nominate someone for achievements and excellence in any field. Some examples include:
- business and technology
- healthcare and medicine
- education and academia
- engineering and architecture
- skilled trades
- mining
- arts and culture
- sports and entertainment
- law and social justice
- media and journalism
- social and community services
- science and aerospace
- literature and writing
- environment and conservation
Eligibility
The person you nominate (the nominee) must be:
- a long-term or former resident of Ontario (the nominee does not need to be a Canadian citizen)
- someone whose career, in any field, has had a major impact or influence on the province, Canada and around the world
- living at the time of nomination
People who are not eligible
You cannot nominate:
- yourself
- someone who has passed away
- an elected federal, provincial or municipal politician currently in office
- a sitting judge of any court
- one of Ontario’s legislative officers while in office:
- auditor general
- ombudsman
- information and privacy commissioner
- financial accountability officer
- integrity commissioner
- chief electoral officer
- a volunteer
- someone for acts of bravery
No person may be appointed to the Order posthumously, unless death occurs following the council’s recommendation for appointment.
Learn More here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/order-ontario