Nursing associate professor receives a Meritorious Service Cross from Governor General of Canada

This past weekend, associate professor Dr. Sandra Reilly received a Meritorious Service Cross (M.S.C.) from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, at the Canadian Honours presentation in Regina.

The Meritorious Service Decorations recognize great Canadians for exceptional deeds accomplished over a limited period of time that bring honour to our country. They represent many different fields of endeavour, from advocacy initiatives and health-care services, to research and humanitarian efforts.

Dr. Reilly, who is also a member of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, was honoured for the establishment, in 1986, of Calgary’s Children’s Cottage Society, which provides a safe place for parents to leave their children during times of crisis. Her innovative approach to child welfare has helped more than 60, 000 children, strengthened family ties and set the model for other crisis nurseries in Canada.

Almost 35 Canadians were celebrated on Oct. 20 for their excellence, courage or exceptional dedication to service with one of the following honours: the Order of Merit of the Police Forces, a Meritorious Service Decoration (Civil Division), a Canadian Bravery Decoration, the Polar Medal or the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.

Photo by MCpl Mathieu Gaudreault, Rideau Hall © OSGG, 2018