Hamilton's John Kelton, Michael Phillips named to Order of Canada
Another McMaster professor, from Milton, Ont., also appointed to the order
Two Hamiltonians are among the 95 Canadians appointed to the Order of Canada on Friday.
John Kelton, a physician scientist from Dundas, Ont., and Michael Phillips, a mental health researcher based in Shanghai and Hamilton, have been made members of the Order of Canada, one of the three levels of the order. It recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level, or in a specific field.
Kelton, an active professor and a practicing doctor, is also the dean and vice-president of the Faculty of Health Sciences and dean of the Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine at McMaster University. He is recognized "for his research into blood cell disorders and for his contributions to making Hamilton a hub for health science research," according to a release from the Governor General of Canada's press office.
Phillips, who earned his medical degree from McMaster University and received his psychiatry training in the U.S., has lived in China since 1985 while conducting mental health research, according to various alumni profiles. He is recognized "for his contributions to the prevention of suicide in China and for his engagement in international mental health initiatives."
Another McMaster professor, Alba DiCenso, a Milton resident, has also been made a member of the Order of Canada. A professor emerita of McMaster’s School of Nursing and the Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, she is honoured "for her research in evidence-based nursing and for her contributions to the development of nurse practitioners."
Other notable appointments include former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney and AIDS research pioneer Dr. Julio Montaner.
Established in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of the country's highest civilian honours and it recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the country.
The three levels of the order are companion, officer and member.
The recipients will be invited to accept their insignia at a ceremony. The date of the ceremony will be announced later.