The Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Medal has long been a symbol of academic excellence: established in 1979, the award was previously exclusive to students in vocational and career programs of less than two years and focused on academic excellence and community service.
In 2019, eligibility for the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal has been expanded to recognize post-secondary students with outstanding contributions in support of inclusion, democracy or reconciliation, on or off campus, and now includes students in diploma and degree programs.
“It is important to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of students attending our universities, colleges and other post-secondary institutions,” said the Honourable Janet Austin. “Students are helping to create a more welcoming and supportive environment, standing up for those who are more vulnerable and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.”
Nominees for the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal, given in partnership with the BC Ministry of Advanced Education, are chosen by the public post-secondary institution they attend. The three criteria for award are:
• Diversity and Inclusion: This award recognizes students who have promoted diversity and inclusion. Students must demonstrate strong collaboration and unifying efforts, through the promotion and display of tolerance and respect for others.
• Democracy and Citizenship: This award recognizes students who have strengthened democracy through civic engagement or the advancement of human rights. Students must demonstrate recognition of the fundamental rights and dignity of all persons at a local, national or global level.
• Reconciliation: In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada urgently called on Canadians to take action to transform society by establishing a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples. This award recognizes students who have answered this call to reconciliation and are undertaking efforts to heal their communities.
Award recipients are chosen by the insitutions which they attend.