Sandra Oh appointed to the Order of Canada, the country’s highest civilian honor

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Gov. Gen. Mary Simon revealed the list of 85 appointees in an announcement on Wednesday, which includes notable names from various fields including film, sports, music, science and politics.

“The Order of Canada celebrates the lives, endeavors and successes of people from coast to coast to coast and from all walks of life,” Simon said in a statement.

“Those being appointed today come from a variety of sectors, have achieved national and international success, and have shown ingenuity, innovation and generosity,” she continued. “What’s more, they have made a difference in their communities and for Canada with their outstanding dedication and commitment.”

Oh, who played cardiothoracic surgeon Cristina Yang in the hit ABC medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” was named an officer to the Order of Canada for her success both onstage and onscreen. The Order of Canada has three achievement levels, with Member being the lowest, Officer being the second-highest and Companion being the highest.

Those appointed receive a silver snowflake-shaped insignia with a red annulus in the middle and a royal crown above. The insignia also carries the order’s motto “Desiderantes Meliorem Patriam,” which translates to “They desire a better country.” Honorees will be presented with their insignia at a later date at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Canada.

The Order of Canada is only given to individuals and not to couples or groups. Elected officials and judges who are still in office are not eligible for nomination. Non-Canadians may be considered for nomination and receive the award if “their contributions have brought benefit or honour to Canadians or Canada.”

Created by Queen Elizabeth II in 1967, more than 7,600 people from all sectors have been appointed to the Order of Canada.

Featured Image via @iamsandraohinsta

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