Introduced to mark the ascension of King Charles III on May 6, 2023, the Coronation Medal recognizes significant contributions, whether in public service, arts, education, science, or other areas that have advanced Canadian society or brought international recognition to the country. The recipients exemplify the spirit of dedication and commitment to both their communities and broader Canadian society. It is the first Canadian commemorative medal to mark a coronation. A total of 30,000 medals will be awarded throughout the year and this article will be updated as new recipients are announced.
Twelve Queen’s researchers have been recognized with this honour. Recipients are nominated by a set list of partner organizations, such as national non-profits or government representatives, including members of parliament and senators. Awards are presented at ceremonies across the country by the Governor General, Lieutenant Governors, and Territorial Commissioners. The design of the medal itself incorporates symbols of Canada’s provinces, territories, and Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing unity and inclusion. The King Charles III Coronation Medal joins five previous national commemorative medals marking significant milestones for the country dating back to 1967 with the Canadian Centennial medal.
The two recipients from the Department of Political Studies are:
Stéfanie von Hlatky – Nominated by the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defense. Dr. von Hlatky is a professor in the Department of Political Studies and holds the Canada Research Chair in Gender, Security, and the Armed Forces. She is also a Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation Fellow and the former director of the Centre for International and Defence Policy at Queen’s. Her research on NATO, military culture, and women, peace, and security is rooted in a commitment to build more inclusive security outcomes. Dr. von Hlatky is the founder of Women in International Security-Canada and the Honorary Colonel of the Princess of Wales’ Own Regiment.
John McGarry – Nominated by Universities Canada. Dr. McGarry is a professor in the Department of Political Studies and former Canada Research Chair in Nationalism and Democracy. His research on power-sharing and conflict resolution has had a significant impact on public policy, influencing governance reforms in Northern Ireland and UN-backed negotiations in Cyprus. From 2008-2009, he worked as the "Senior Advisor on Power-Sharing" to the UN (Standby Team, Mediation Support Unit), the first person appointed to this position. His contributions have been widely recognized, earning him prestigious honours including the Killam Prize, Molson Prize, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, an appointment to the Order of Canada, and the Pearson Peace Medal.
To learn more about the other Queen’s recipients, please read the article in the Queen's Gazette