Eight esteemed Carleton alumni have been named to the Order of Canada. Recognized for their exceptional contributions to Canada and the world, the newest Carleton community appointees include leaders in diplomacy, public health, arts and culture, engineering, politics, information technology and law.
Order of Canada insignia
Alexandra Bugailiskis, (BAH/79, MA/92), was named a member of the Order. Bugailiskis is an alum of the Faculty of Public and Global Affairs, where her studies earned her a bachelor’s degree in political science and master’s in international affairs.
With nearly four decades of service as a former Canadian diplomat, Bugailiskis was an ambassador to Syria, Cuba, Poland and Italy. She also occupied several executive roles at Global Affairs Canada, influencing foreign policy and mentoring future diplomats. In 2023, she was appointed Chair of the International Advisory Committee of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health.
David Alexander Jones, (ALHD/15), was named an Officer of the Order. In 2024, Carleton awarded Jones the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in recognition of his outstanding service as Canada’s first chief public health officer in times of crisis, and his leadership in making the Public Health Agency of Canada the organization it is today.
Having dedicated his career to supporting and safeguarding the health of Canadians, Jones’ leadership spans national, provincial and regional health organizations and initiatives, in addition to research and academia. As the nation’s first chief public health officer from 2004 to 2014, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Susan Peterson d’Aquino, (MA/70), was named a member of the Order. D’Aquino is an alum of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, graduating with a master’s degree in philosophy.
A retired public servant, d’Aquino held senior roles in Canada’s federal public service for nearly three decades. A respected arts patron and philanthropist, her support has enriched many of Canada’s leading arts and cultural institutions, including the National Arts Centre, the National Gallery of Canada and the Banff Centre for the Arts. D’Aquino is also strongly committed to heritage conservation.
Donald William Hayley, (BEng/66), was named an Officer of the Order. Hayley is an alum of the Faculty of Engineering and Design, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.
Hayley is recognized as one of Canada’s top permafrost engineers. A specialist in cold region geotechnical work, he has played a key role in the development of the Canadian Arctic, benefitting both local communities and the economy. His innovations include sloped thermosyphons, Canada’s first frozen core dam and improvements to winter ice road design and construction.
The Honourable John Paul Manley, (BA/71), was promoted to Companion of the Order. Manley is an alum of the Faculty of Science, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. In 2003, Carleton awarded Manley the A.D. Dunton Alumni Award of Distinction for his remarkable career and contributions.
A respected figure in both politics and business, Manley served over a decade as a federal minister, led a national business association and chaired the boards of several major Canadian companies. Throughout his career, he bridged public, private and non-profit sectors while advocating for diversity and inclusiveness in leadership and contributing to matters of public policy.
Claudette McGowan, (ALHD/22), was named a member of the Order. In 2022, Carleton awarded McGowan the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in recognition of a distinguished career as a global information technology leader.
A prominent figure in information technology, McGowan is the founder and CEO of Protexxa, a Canadian cybersecurity firm with international influence. She is a strong advocate for women in tech and a proponent of digital human rights within the technology industry and worldwide.
Maureen Anne McTeer, (ALHD/10), was named an Officer of the Order. In 2010, Carleton awarded McTeer the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in recognition of her contributions to women’s equality and rights within Canada and internationally, as well as her advancement of health and medical issues.
A respected Canadian lawyer and author, McTeer’s work on gender issues and health policy has made a lasting impact. Her contributions have influenced key developments in “women’s health and equality, pollution, the international rule of law, fertility rights and individual autonomy in end-of-life care.”
Theresa Tam, (ALHD/24), was named an Officer of the Order. In 2024, Carleton awarded Tam the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, in recognition of a distinguished career in public health, particularly in leading Canada’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tam has worked for decades to advance public health in Canada and globally, drawing on her expertise as a pediatric infectious disease specialist and public servant. As Canada’s chief public health officer, she championed health equity and played a prominent role guiding the country throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
About the Order of Canada
Established in 1967 by Queen Elizabeth, the Order of Canada is the pillar of the Canadian honours system. Becoming a member recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity. The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honours with three levels of appointment: companion, officer and member.
On June 30, 2025, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, announced 83 new appointments to the Order of Canada.
Friday, July 4, 2025 in Campus News
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