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Published on June 29, 2026
The Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research is delighted to celebrate a remarkable honour for Senior Fellow Dr. Harvey Skinner, who has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian distinctions.
The Order of Canada recognizes Canadians whose exceptional achievements and service have enriched our nation and made a lasting impact on the world. In announcing this year's appointments, Governor General Louise Arbour noted that the recipients "reflect the talent and determination that shape Canada's future."
Harvey was recognized as a globally respected leader in behaviour change and addictions. His pioneering Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) has become the international standard for identifying substance use problems, influencing clinical practice and public policy around the world. He was also honoured for championing digital innovation, interdisciplinary learning, international peacebuilding, and youth-led action on climate change.
Throughout a career spanning more than four decades, Harvey has combined scholarship with service, inspiring generations of students, researchers, and community leaders. He is a Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Global Health at York University, a Senior Fellow at the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, and was founding Dean of York’s Faculty of Health (2006–2016). Before that, he spent 30 years at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and then the University of Toronto as Chair of Public Health Sciences (now the Dalla Lana School of Public Health).
Today, Harvey and Susan Harris co-lead the Wellness Impact Lab at the Dahdaleh Institute, exploring innovative ways to foster health, resilience, and climate well-being. Whether through research, mentoring, or teaching Qi Gong, Harvey continues to live by a guiding vision:
healing ourselves, healing others, healing our planet.
Congratulations, Harvey, on this well-deserved national honour!
Themes | Planetary Health |
Status | Active |
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