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Twelve distinguished individuals were formally inducted into the Order of Manitoba during a ceremony held Thursday afternoon at the Manitoba Legislative Building.
The Order of Manitoba, the province’s highest honour, recognizes residents whose accomplishments and service have enriched the social, cultural or economic well-being of Manitoba and beyond.
“This year’s recipients inspire us and remind us that we all have the power to make a difference,” said Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville, who presided over the private ceremony as chancellor of the order. “The vast and varied contributions made by these individuals, whether their impact is felt on the local, national or international level, are most worthy of acknowledgement and acclaim.”
Established in 1999, the Order of Manitoba celebrates excellence in fields ranging from public service and philanthropy to science, education, arts and Indigenous advocacy.
Appointments are made by the chancellor based on the recommendations of an advisory council. Inductees are entitled to use the initials O.M. after their names for life.
The 2025 honourees include:
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Maria E. Chaput, the first Franco-Manitoban woman appointed to the Canadian Senate, for her advocacy and leadership in strengthening francophone communities.
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Rebecca Gibson, an award-winning producer, writer and director, who recently became only the second Manitoban to win an International Emmy.
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Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, a leading expert in hypothermia and cold stress research, whose life-saving work influences emergency response protocols across Canada.
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Dr. Digvir S. Jayas, a globally recognized grain scientist and academic leader, now president of the University of Lethbridge.
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Glen Kruck, a Brandon-based community leader who developed housing solutions for those facing homelessness and mental health challenges.
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Trudy L. Lavallee, a longtime advocate for First Nations children and a key figure behind the creation of Jordan’s Principle.
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Ken Paupanekis, a Kinosao Sipi Cree Nation Elder whose work in language revitalization has had a lasting impact on Indigenous education in Manitoba.
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Kristie Pearson, a passionate fundraiser whose campaigns have raised over $30 million for charitable organizations across the province.
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Walter Schroeder, a business executive and philanthropist whose foundation has committed over $500 million to educational initiatives.
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Charlie Spiring, a philanthropist and financial advisor known for his wide-reaching support of health and social programs.
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Felix Walker, a Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation leader whose culturally rooted programs support family reunification and youth care.
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Marion F. Willis, founder of St. Boniface Street Links and Morberg House, known for her holistic work supporting homeless and vulnerable Winnipeggers.
A full list of Order of Manitoba recipients is on permanent display at the Legislative Building.