Thirty prominent Ontarians including broadcaster Don Cherry and business executive Edward Rogers have been named to the 2025 Order of Ontario, the province’s highest civilian honour.
Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont announced the appointments earlier this week, recognizing individuals whose achievements and service have made lasting contributions to Ontario and Canada.
Cherry, a former NHL coach and longtime host of Hockey Night in Canada’s Coach’s Corner, is among the most recognizable names on the list. He is being honoured for his decades-long influence on Canadian hockey culture.
Edward Rogers, executive chair of Rogers Communications, is also being recognized for his leadership in business and telecommunications. Cameron Bailey, CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival, joins the list for his role in elevating Canada’s global film presence.
Other notable appointees include former Ontario chief justice George Strathy, cybersecurity executive Claudette McGowan, television journalist Tracy Moore, labour leader Joe Mancinelli and philanthropist and Holocaust survivor Nathan Leipciger.
The Order of Ontario has recognized 933 individuals since it was established in 1986. Appointments are made on the recommendation of an independent advisory council, based on nominations submitted by members of the public.
Recipients will be formally invested during a ceremony in Toronto in 2026.
Nominations for the 2026 Order of Ontario are open until March 31.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)