The Coronation Medal commemorates the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III as King of Canada. The medal is administered by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall.
The medal was designed by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority at the Chancellery of Honours, Rideau Hall. The medal is struck in nickel-silver and lacquered to prevent tarnishing. It is manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint. Read more about the details of the medal here.
As a Member of Parliament, Elizabeth is honoured to bestow 25 medals upon outstanding community members in Saanich–Gulf Islands. Below is a short bio of each award recipient. These individuals have all made significant contributions to Canada or outstanding achievements abroad that bring credit to Canada. We celebrate their successes and contributions to Canadian society and the beautiful community of Saanich–Gulf Islands.
The Coronation Medal ceremony was held on February 27 at the Butchart Gardens Private Residence. Credit for all photos goes to Michelle Watt, Whispering Oaks Photography, unless otherwise mentioned.
Robert Bateman
Robert Bateman is a renowned Canadian artist and naturalist. After earning an honours geography degree from the University of Toronto, he taught high school for 20 years, including two in Nigeria. He left teaching in 1976 to focus on painting and conservation, traveling worldwide with his wife, Birgit. His work, primarily focused on wildlife and nature, has evolved from impressionism and cubism to realism, gaining widespread acclaim. Robert Bateman’s art has been exhibited in museums worldwide the biggest of which was at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC. He has used his work to support conservation efforts. He has received numerous honors, including Officer of the Order of Canada and the Order of BC and authored many best-selling books. Several movies have been made on his art and life.
Heather Burkett
As District Principal for Saanich School District, Heather Burkett found it challenging to find dental assistance for a new student who was in severe pain. This resulted in Heather partnering with Dr. Mitra Hashemi in 2012 to found the ORCCA Dental Clinic Society. Since then, the Sidney Clinic has served thousands of children whose families could not afford dentistry. Heather was also nominated as Woman of the Year in Manitoba, has been made an honorary Igbo through her work with intercultural groups, and has received the Paul Harris Fellowship. She remains Chair of the ORCCA Board, committed to improving oral health in the community.
Robert Campbell
Chief Petty First Class Robert Campbell is the first person of colour to be appointed Fleet Chief in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve. The Naval Reserve Fleet Chief is the most senior position for a Non-Commissioned Officer and is the trusted advisor to the Commander of the Naval Reserve. CPO1 Campbell holds a B.Sc. from the University of Western Ontario, a certificate in the Application and Management of Information Technology from the University of Victoria and is a Certified Project Management Professional. In his civilian career, CPO1 Campbell is the Senior Program Manager at Lockheed Martin Canada and volunteers in his community.
Bill Collins
Bill Collins, a native Newfoundlander and graduate of Memorial University with a Master’s in Geology, has built a 40-year career bridging science and global business. After relocating to Victoria in 1994, he helped develop and sell innovative sonar systems to over 20 navies and government institutions worldwide. As Chair of Quester Tangent, Bill has led the company’s growth into North America’s leading manufacturer of train electronics. His co-founding of Cascadia Seaweed Corp. has created opportunities for Indigenous and coastal communities while enhancing marine environments. As a committed community leader, Bill serves as the station manager at Radio Sidney, where he received the 2024 NCRA Game Changer Award for his service to community radio across Canada.
Dave Cowen
Dave Cowen is the CEO of The Butchart Gardens, leading a diverse team of over 500 to deliver a world-renowned horticultural experience. With over 35 years at Butchart Gardens, he became CEO in 2017, after serving as General Manager since 2007. Dave is the Immediate Past President of Gardens BC and has contributed to the Canada Garden Council. He also serves as the Tourism Co-Chair for the Pacific Northwest Economic Region, promoting bilateral tourism opportunities. The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site, attracts around one million visitors annually with its stunning displays, entertainment, and dining options.
Lorna Crozier
Lorna Crozier, born in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, is an acclaimed poet and author of 16 poetry collections, including Inventing the Hawk (1992 Governor General’s Award). Her work has been translated into several languages, and she has published a memoir, Small Beneath the Sky, and children’s books. Lorna is also a respected teacher, now a professor emeritus at the University of Victoria, and mentors poets through workshops across Canada. An Officer of the Order of Canada, she has received numerous awards, including five honorary doctorates. Lorna’s poetry continues to inspire readers worldwide, and she remains a passionate advocate for social and environmental causes.
Jean Gelwicks
Jean Gelwicks has had a profound impact on Salt Spring Island. With a kind and masterful manner, she has led and worked on projects of enduring community value. Jean founded and chaired a community coalition called Partners Creating Pathways, building a network of pedestrian and bike trails. She was the founder and heart and soul of the Stewards in Training program, where dozens of volunteer mentors lead kindergarten to Grade 8 school students in nature-focused learning experiences. An active contributor to the Salt Spring Island Conservancy and a founding member of Transition Salt Spring, Jean is a volunteer with a passionate commitment to her community.
Dr. Mitra Hashemi
Dr. Mitra Hashemi, a dentist passionate about community health, co-founded the ORCCA Dental Clinic at Sidney Elementary School to provide free dental care. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in Iran in 2000 and moved to Canada in 2003. After additional training at the University of Western Ontario, she became a Certified Dentist in 2008. In 2012, Dr. Hashemi opened Coast Dental Care in Sidney and helped establish ORCCA Dental Clinic. Her leadership and commitment to improving children’s oral health highlight her visionary approach to addressing an issue that has long been overlooked.
Sue Hodgson
Sue Hodgson grew up in Dalhousie, New Brunswick, along the Bay of Chaleur, where she enjoyed beachcombing, boating, and windsurfing. Raised in a family passionate about forest management and wildlife, she earned a BA in Social Sciences from the University of Victoria. In addition to serving as a Board Director for Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation, Sue’s career includes roles as director at Page One Publishing, publisher of Peninsula News Review and Boulevard Magazine, and owner of Seaside Magazine, a community publication highlighting West Coast culture. Sue serves on the boards of Beacon Community Services, Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, and St. Andrew’s Abbeyfield House, contributing to her community in many ways.
Mohan Jawl
Mohan Jawl is a successful business leader known for blending corporate success with community impact. As the youngest son of an immigrant family, he and his brothers built Jawl Holdings, a prominent development company behind projects like the Selkirk Waterfront. The development revitalized a former mill site and became a model for community-driven projects. In addition to his business achievements, Mohan co-founded Jawl and Bundon law firm and was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1984. He has held numerous community roles, supporting initiatives like the Galloping Goose Trail, Lochside Park, and the Victoria Foundation. Mohan was recognized with an Honorary Citizen Award by the City of Victoria.
Dr. Clark Ryan Konczak
Dr. Clark Ryan Konczak, is recognized for his outstanding contributions to healthcare, sports, and support for the Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police members and our veterans. Dr. Konczak has dedicated more than 27 years to chiropractic medicine, working with elite athletes, including Canada’s Olympic Team. He is also a recipient of the Canadian Chiropractic Association’s Award of Merit.
Karen Morgan
For 21 years, Karen Morgan led the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation, building support in community for better healthcare delivery on the Saanich Peninsula. Under her leadership, the Foundation funded a new ER, Palliative Care Unit, Operating Rooms, CT scanners, and equipment. Karen was also pivotal in recruiting physicians to SPH, ensuring the hospital’s viability. In addition, Karen co-founded the Shoreline Medical Society, which provides primary care to over 18,000 patients. After retiring from the Foundation, she continued to assist the development of Shoreline, first as Interim Executive Director, then as Director of Development. Karen’s work has inspired change across Canada.
Dale Murray
Dale Murray has made significant contributions to the community through his leadership roles in various organizations. He served as President of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Lower Vancouver Island, overseeing the successful amalgamation of the G.R. Pearkes Centre with Queen Alexandra Hospital for Children. Dale is also a past President and Treasurer of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, supporting its financial sustainability and long-term planning. Additionally, Dale contributed to the Friends of the Royal British Columbia Museum and the Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem. A former member of the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, he was appointed an Honorary Colonel in 2013.
Dr. Leah Norgrove
The impactful legacy of Dr. Leah Norgrove includes providing medical leadership for over 20 years on the 10-bed Palliative Care Unit at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, since its inception in 2002. She co-directed the W̱SÁNEĆ Journey Home project, which seeks to provide culturally appropriate end-of-life care for four First Nations communities. She also founded the Bombo Palliative Care Project Society, funding a program in Tanzania that she and her husband, Dr. Ambrose Marsh, started in 2008. Dr. Norgrove initiated a cervical cancer screening program in Tanzania, addressing preventable cancer deaths. Recognized with the 2018 Humanitarian Award from the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians, she is known for her compassionate care and dedication to improving end-of-life experiences.
Colleen O’Brien
Colleen O’Brien is recognized for her exceptional work in restoring the Garry oak meadow and Camas garden at Playfair Park in Saanich, BC. Over 20 years, Colleen has volunteered 15,000+ hours, developing new techniques that set the standard for Garry oak ecosystem restoration. Her efforts increased the Yellow Montane Violet population from under 300 to over 3,145. Garry oak ecosystems are considered to be globally critically imperilled, and her work exemplifies respect for native species and serves as a living model for ecosystem restoration in greater Victoria.
Chief Eric Pelkey
Eric Pelkey, Hereditary Chief of Tsawout of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, is Community Engagement Coordinator for the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council. He is also Spokesman for the W̱SÁNEĆ Hereditary Chiefs. With 25 years of experience in First Nations administration, Eric has held various leadership roles, including Band Manager, CEO, Director of Operations, and Lands Manager. He also served as Coordinator for the SENĆOŦEN Alliance, representing Tsawout, Tsartlip, Pauquachin, and Semiahmoo Nations on Aboriginal and Douglas Treaty Rights and Title issues for four years. Eric holds certifications as a First Nations Lands Manager from AANDC, a lifetime appointment as Commissioner of Oaths for First Nations, and a degree in Indigenous Language Revitalization from the University of Victoria.
Christine Penney
Christine Penney is a visionary and innovative leader with extensive experience in healthcare and social systems. She excels in strategic planning, project management, and financial oversight, fostering collaboration and assessing health systems at provincial, national, and international levels. Christine has held key roles, including Chief Officer at the BC College of Nursing Professionals, Board Chair for the Alzheimer’s Society of BC and Canada, and membership on three board committees at the National Council of State Boards of Nursing. Her leadership spans clinical, academic, and research environments, influencing policy, regulatory excellence and emerging leaders. With a deep knowledge of health care, having worked from bedside to boardroom, she is passionate about the sustainability of Canada’s public health system. Christine holds a PhD in Public Administration, with a focus on accountability in Canada’s health system.
Kenny Podmore
Kenny Podmore is a beloved community figure in Sidney, known for his many roles, including town crier, master of ceremonies, Santa, and marriage officiant. Originally from the U.K., Kenny immigrated to Canada in 1999 and became a Canadian citizen in 2002. He has dedicated himself to local organizations such as the B.C. Aviation Museum, Peninsula Celebrations, and youth groups. An active Rotarian and winner of the Peninsula News Review’s Community Volunteer Award, Kenny is a tireless volunteer, supporting causes locally and internationally. His commitment to helping others and his infectious positivity make him a true community leader and role model.
Boris Sark
Jarrett Teague
Jarrett Teague is a dedicated volunteer who has spent over 35 years working at John Dean Park in North Saanich. A 28-year Canadian Forces veteran, he has spent countless hours maintaining trails, clearing invasive species, and enhancing the park’s infrastructure. A fourth-generation Vancouver Island resident, Jarrett has written six books on the park’s history, notably John Dean’s Cabin Diary and Camp 20. Despite living in East Sooke, he continues his work at the park multiple times a week. Jarrett’s military experience has shaped his meticulous approach to park maintenance, using systems and spreadsheets to track ongoing tasks; BC Parks often comes to him for advice.
Chief Don Tom
Don Tom is the Chief of the Tsartlip First Nation and a Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth leader dedicated to advocating for Indigenous rights. Raised on the Saanich Peninsula, he is a member of the W̱SÁNEĆ, Stzmenus, and Ahousaht nations. Fluent in SENĆOŦEN and Hul’q’umi’num, Don co-authored the BC Children’s Commission Youth Report at age 16. He has long advocated for Indigenous causes, including the protection of Grace Islet and opposing the LNG Floating Facility. A Vice-President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, Don also contributes to the First Nations Leadership Council and focuses on emergency management, hunting and wildlife issues.
Mavis Underwood
Mavis Underwood, a former elected member of the SȾÁUTW̱ Band Council for several terms, has dedicated her life to social change and betterment for First Nations communities. Mavis has held key roles, including Tutor Advocate for First Nations learners, teacher at Stelly’s Secondary, and Executive Director of NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services. She was a Coordinator for the 2015 BC First Nations Elders Gathering hosted by SȾÁUTW̱ in WSANEC territory. For the past six years, Mavis has served as a Board Governor with the Real Estate Foundation of BC. A continuous learner, she earned a B.A. in Child and Youth Care, Teacher’s Certification, Sexual Abuse Counsellor’s Certification, and a Masters in Indigenous Governance. Mavis is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Anthropology. She has received numerous awards, including a Woman of Distinction Award and Canada 125 Medal, and is deeply influenced by her First Nations heritage.
Valdy
Valdy (aka: Paul-Valdemar Horsdal CM) is a Canadian folksinger: a singer, songwriter, guitarist and relentless touring entertainer. Born Paul Valdemar Horsdal in Ottawa, Ontario, Valdy has earned two Juno Awards, four gold records, a SOCAN Song of the Year Award, and has been invested as a Member of the Order of Canada. With a career span verging on six decades, he is known for captivating performances and impressive guitar playing. Valdy and his wife Kathleen live on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia; he remains an advocate for literacy and a supporter of Canadian Seniors’ Climate Action.
Dr. Darrell Wick
Dr. Darrell Wick, President of the PKOLS-Mount Douglas Park Conservancy, has dedicated 40 years to preserving Mount Douglas Park in Saanich, BC, including the past 16 years as president. His leadership has been instrumental in protecting the park’s globally imperiled ecosystems, vital to local First Nations. Dr. Wick’s accomplishments include preventing a roadway through the park, developing a long-term protection charter, and creating a land acquisition strategy to expand park boundaries. He led a successful salmon restoration program and helped establish an educational amphitheater. His advocacy has made the Conservancy a successful model for non-profit groups in Greater Victoria.
Ronald Wright
Ronald Wright is a Canadian author of history, fiction and essays published around the world in eighteen languages. His Massey Lectures, A Short History of Progress, won the Libris Book of the Year Award, and like much of his work explored humanity’s past and future, civilization and sustainability. His other bestsellers include Stolen Continents, winner of the Gordon Montador Award, and Time Among the Maya. Ronald’s first novel, A Scientific Romance, won the David Higham Prize. His latest, The Gold Eaters, is set during the Spanish invasion of the Inca Empire. He also contributes to the Times Literary Supplement and has written for TV and radio.
