Alumni Shelagh Rogers and Beth Symes have been named to the Order of Canada.

Ms Rogers (Artsci’78), a CBC Radio broadcaster, has been named an Officer. She was honoured for her contributions to Canadian culture and for her volunteer work in the fields of mental health and literacy. She is best known for hosting flagship CBC Radio programs such as This Morning and Sounds Like Canada.

Ms Symes (Law’76), a lawyer, was named as a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions as a champion of women’s rights in the legal profession.

“It is wonderful to have been recognized for my advocacy on behalf of women. In my career I have used the skills I acquired in law school at Queen’s,” says Ms Symes.

She is one of the founding members of the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF) and served on its National Legal Committee. She practices administrative law and civil litigation with her firm Symes and Street in Toronto.

Officer is the second highest honour given (after Companion) and recognizes a lifetime of achievement and merit of a high degree, especially in service to Canada or to humanity at large. Member recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or field of activity.

Governor General David Johnston (Law’66, LLD’91) announced 12 Officers and 42 Members to the Order of Canada on Dec. 30. Recipients will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony to be held at a later date.