Queen’s University professor emeritus and recipient of the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physics, Arthur B. McDonald, has been named as one of the first Canada 150 Ambassadors.

The ambassadors program highlights the achievements of prominent Canadians in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

“I am proud to be named a Canada 150 Ambassador,” says Dr. McDonald. “I am hoping that the Nobel Prize will enable young Canadians to realize that we are capable of doing world-class research in Canada. The ambassador role will enable me to reach more young Canadians with this message.”

Dr. McDonald joined the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, at an event in Halifax on Tuesday, as she announced a $6-million investment in the Innovation 150 project, as part of the Canada 150 fund. The project aims to promote interest in science and innovation through a series of interactive activities and educational programs about great Canadians in science and technology.

“On behalf of Queen’s University, I extend my congratulations to Dr. McDonald on this distinct honour.” says Daniel Woolf, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University. “There is no doubt he will serve as an outstanding ambassador for our country’s milestone anniversary.”

The Innovation 150 project, under the direction of the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in partnership with Actua, the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Canadian Association of Science Centres, will support a traveling exhibition celebrating Canadian luminaries in science, research and innovation. Making stops in more than 80 communities across Canada, it aims to inspire young Canadians by highlighting the achievements of innovative Canadian researchers and inventors, and foster an interest in the possibilities offered by science.

“Here are two development projects for our leaders and scientists of tomorrow,” Minister Joly said at the announcement. “In choosing to take part in the pan-Canadian signature projects, young people will have the opportunity to meet their peers living in other parts of the country. They will also be able to develop their entrepreneurial spirit, their critical thinking and their creativity.

“Let’s make the most of this important moment in our history to encourage them to develop relationships within their communities and develop their scientific talents.”

The Canada 150 fund was established in April 2015 to support events and activities across Canada as part of the 150^th anniversary of Confederation. For more information about Canada 150 celebrations, please visit the website.