Three Carleton Community Members Appointed to the Order of Canada

Three Carleton University community members have been named to the Order of Canada. These exceptional leaders have been recognized for their leadership and contributions which have positively impacted the lives of numerous Canadians. The newest Carleton community appointees include leaders in international affairs, social justice and human rights, and business and philanthropy.

Donald Colin Robertson, (MA/78), was named a Member of the Order. A Carleton alum, Robertson graduated with a master’s degree in international affairs from the Faculty of Global and Public Affairs.

A career diplomat, Robertson is widely recognized for his expertise in Canadian foreign, trade and defence policy as well as public diplomacy. Through his multiple international postings, he developed expertise on Canada-U.S. relations and bilateral trade negotiations. He continues to share his knowledge of international affairs through presentations, podcasts and public commentaries.

In his final diplomatic assignment, Robertson led a project on Canada-U.S. engagement at Carleton’s Centre for Trade Policy and Law. He is also a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs.

John William Foster, (Professor Emeritus), was named a Member of the Order; the honour was announced posthumously. A former professor in the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Foster was a long-time advocate of social justice and human rights.

Through his leadership in NGOs and ecumenical organizations, Foster helped shape government policy and strengthen civil society, with a particular focus on international relations, refugees and HIV/AIDS. A respected coalition builder and community mobilizer, his impact was felt across Canada and beyond.

Eric E. Baker, (ZENG/54), was named an Officer of the Order. A Carleton alum, Baker received an engineering certificate from the Faculty of Engineering and Design.

An entrepreneur with an accomplished career in private equity and venture capital, Baker is a respected business leader who has helped build and grow numerous businesses in the emerging technology and communications sectors. A generous philanthropist, he has supported organizations and initiatives spanning a broad range of fields.

Established in 1967 by Queen Elizabeth, the Order of Canada is the pillar of the Canadian honours system. Becoming a member recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity. The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honours with three levels of appointment: companion, officer and member.

On June 26, 2026, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour, Governor General of Canada, announced 61 new appointments to the Order of Canada.

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