The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario, has announced two Indian-Canadians, Vivek Goel and Professor Poonam Puri, as recipients of the prestigious Order of Ontario for 2024. They are among 29 remarkable individuals selected this year for their significant contributions to Ontario, Canada, and beyond.
The Order of Ontario, the province’s highest civilian honor, recognizes exceptional achievements. Dr. Vivek Goel and Professor Poonam Puri have earned their place with groundbreaking work in public health research and corporate governance, respectively.
Vivek Goel – Waterloo
A globally acclaimed public health researcher, Vivek Goel is known for advancing health policy through evidence-based research. As the founding scientist at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences and the inaugural President of Public Health Ontario, he has been instrumental in promoting health and safeguarding lives through scientific innovation. His leadership has significantly influenced public health education over decades. Dr. Goel, currently President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waterloo, is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences.
Professor Poonam Puri – Toronto
An expert in corporate governance and securities regulation, Poonam Puri’s work has reshaped access to justice in Ontario. As a Research Chair at Osgoode Hall Law School, she co-founded Canada’s pioneering Investor Protection Clinic. Her impactful research has inspired policy reforms and improved governance practices globally. Professor Puri also holds a notable track record as a board director, advising public and private entities, Crown corporations, and nonprofits, and has served as chair of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont praised the 2024 appointees for their dedication and lasting impact. Michael Ford, Ontario’s Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, lauded their contributions, emphasizing the values that make Ontario a vibrant and successful province.
The investiture ceremony will take place in Toronto in 2025, continuing the tradition of honoring exceptional individuals since the Order of Ontario’s establishment in 1986. Over 903 individuals have been recognized for their extraordinary contributions to date.
