TORONTO — Ontario has recognized 11 outstanding individuals for their exceptional volunteer contributions by awarding them the 2023 Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (OMGC). As the province’s second-highest civilian honour, this prestigious medal is given to those whose dedication to community service has created lasting, positive change.

During a ceremony at The Carlu in Toronto, the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, presented the medals to this year’s recipients.

“The Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship celebrates those who go above and beyond to support their communities. I am honored to recognize these incredible Ontarians for the meaningful impact they have made across the province,” said Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont.

Since its inception in 1973, the medal has been awarded to individuals devoted to causes such as environmental conservation, arts and culture, public safety, and social services.

In September 2024, Ontario announced a name change for the medal in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. Beginning in 2025, future recipients will receive the Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (QEIIOMGC), making this year’s honourees the final group to be recognized under the original name.

2023 Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship Recipients:

  • Ernest Bies, OMC
  • Samuel Billich, OMC
  • David Douglas, OMC
  • Lois Emond, OMC
  • Roger Harris, OMC
  • Janice Hobbs Martell, OMC
  • Raj Khanuja, OMC
  • Lucille Levinski, OMC
  • Gerrard Nudds, CD, OMC
  • Bruce Poulin, CD, OMC
  • Brian Weckwerth, OMC

Quick Facts:

  • The Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship was renamed the Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship (QEIIOMGC) in September 2024 to honour Queen Elizabeth II.
  • The nomination deadline for the QEIIOMGC is November 15 each year, with full eligibility details available online.
  • Recognized as Ontario’s second-highest civilian honour, the QEIIOMGC is part of the Canadian Order of Precedence.
  • Originally established during Queen Elizabeth II’s Royal Visit in 1973, the medal has been awarded to 586 distinguished individuals to date.