Retired Bomber, former premier among new inductees into Order of Manitoba

The exterior of the Manitoba Legislature is seen in Winnipeg, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Manitoba’s Lieutenant-Governor has unveiled the newest recipients of the province’s highest honour.

“The 12 exceptional Manitobans being inducted into the Order of Manitoba this year epitomize what makes Manitoba so special,” Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville said in a news release.

“From world-class athletes and gifted musicians to compassionate community leaders and brilliant medical and scientific minds, their diverse achievements reflect the extraordinary breadth of talent, dedication and service across our province.”

The group of 12 is set to be invested at a formal ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building on July 16.

The inductees are opera singer Tracy Dahl, retired Winnipeg Blue Bomber Andrew Harris, three-time Juno-winning singer and songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk, Métis Olympic medalist hockey player Jocelyne Larocque, renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Peter MacDonald, Mondetta Clothing CEO Ash Modha, former Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister, former COVID-19 Vaccine Implementation Task Force medical lead Dr. Joss Reimer, Indigenous leader Diane Roussin, former Children’s Advocate of Manitoba Elder Billie Schibler (Purple Harvest Woman), professor and founding director of University of Manitoba’s Applied Electromagnetic Laboratory Dr. Lotfollah Shafai, and WOW! Hospitality Group president and philanthropist Douglas Stephen.

According to the province, appointments are made by Lt.-Gov. Neville, the chancellor of the order, based on recommendations of an advisory council.

The order was established in 1999 to honour Manitobans who have demonstrated excellence and achievement, enriching the social, cultural or economic well-being of the province and its residents.

The names of the newest inductees will join a list of members that is on permanent display at the legislature.