Margaret-Ann Armour joins the Order of Canada
July 26, 2006 - Edmonton -- Dr. Margaret-Ann Armour's e-mail has been flooded with congratulations since Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean announced the University of Alberta professor is among the 77 people named to the Order of Canada this week.
Armour, the associate dean of Science (Diversity), is a founding member and former Vice-chair and Convenor of Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology (WISEST), a position she held for over 20 years. Often touted as Canada's premier ambassador of science, she has worked tirelessly through WISEST to encourage young people, especially young women, to consider careers in the sciences and engineering through numerous community outreach programs.
"It is very special for me to be recognized in this way by my adopted country," said Armour, who hails from Scotland and became a Canadian citizen last year.
Established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of endeavour, the Order of Canada is the nation's highest honour for lifetime achievement. The Order of Canada's motto is Desiderantes meliorem patriam - 'They desire a better country.'
"I can't think of a better way of building a better Canada than helping direct young women into careers that they might otherwise not have thought of - careers in science, technology and engineering, " said Bill McBlain, U of A associate VP (Research). "My first reaction to this announcement is that it is an extremely, unquestionably deserving award."
Armour's contributions to the science and technology communities have been recognized with numerous national and international awards. These include the Montreal Medal from the Canadian Chemical Institute; the American Chemical Society Award for Encouraging Women into the Chemical Sciences; a 3M Teaching Fellowship; the Macleans Honour Roll of 10 Canadians Who Are Making A Difference; and one of 100 Edmontonians of the Century.
While Armour said that each award has been special in its own way, she added "this one is extraordinary because it recognizes a wide range of individuals, not only scientists, who have made a difference."
But Grace Ennis, the current co-ordinator of the WISEST program, said the recognition for Armour also goes beyond the realm of science.
"First of all, she has the patience of a saint," said Ennis. "WISEST was just a very small seed of an idea and it has taken a lot of nurturing to turn it into this full, mature tree that is bearing so much fruit, But Dr. Armour is a woman who has contributed in so many ways to a variety of groups. I've seen her approached in airports by her students who say, 'I remember when I was in your class and you helped me sort out what I needed to do.' I've seen the pure rapture of Grade 6 girls who are discovering science and the way Margaret-Ann can hold a conference room full of them in the palm of her hand. She has a way of listening to who you are."
Related Internal Links
Related External Links
