The former CEO of Northern Health has been named to the Order of British Columbia.
Cathy Ulrich of Prince George, who retired last year, is one of 12 people to receive the province's highest honour this year. She was recognized for her for her legacy of leadership and innovation in Northern Health care, the province states.
Ulrich joined Northern Health in 2002, and served as president and CEO from 2007 to 2023.
Before taking that post, she was vice-president of clinical services and chief nursing officer for the health authority for five years, which came after she spent years working as a nurse in rural northern communities.
A ceremony will be held at Government House in Victoria on Sept. 4.
“This year’s recipients are impressive, not simply because of their outstanding contributions to their communities but also because of the diversity of their achievements," said Lt.-Gov. Janet Austin, chancellor of the Order of British Columbia. "The recipients have made advances in sustainability, reconciliation, health care, technology, arts and business. I am amazed by their dedication and innovation, and I look forward to celebrating their installation into the Order at Government House.”
In addition to Ulrich, this year's appointees include:
- John Anderson, West Vancouver, for transforming global farming with sustainable practices and championing community causes
- Brenda Crabtree (Xyolholemo:t), Vancouver, for being an enduring champion for Indigenous artists and developing groundbreaking Indigenous art programs
- Karimah Es Sabar, West Vancouver, for being a pioneering force in B.C.’s health care and life sciences sectors
- qiyəplenəxʷ Howard Grant, Vancouver, for bridging cultures and advancing Indigenous rights with over 26 years of leadership and dedication
- Lily Lee, West Vancouver, for her contributions in education, health care and housing
- Don Mattrick, Victoria, for transforming B.C.’s tech landscape from a basement startup to global leadership
- William P.J. McCarthy, Burnaby, for his historic and transformative support of health care and community as one of B.C.’s most impactful philanthropists
- Colin James Munn, North Vancouver, for shaping Canadian music with his guitar mastery, electrifying performances and unwavering dedication to his community
- Imant Raminsh, C.M., Coldstream, for enriching B.C.’s cultural life with his profound contributions as a composer, conductor, teacher and mentor
- Elana Rosenfeld, Invermere, for her business acumen leading Canada’s largest organic coffee company, unwavering commitment to sustainability and championing of conservation efforts
- Gary Segal, C.M., Vancouver, for his philanthropic contributions to health care, transforming lives across borders and cultures
“On behalf of the people of British Columbia, congratulations to those being appointed to the Order of B.C. for 2024," said Premier David Eby. "You’ve made it your life’s work – through your leadership, art and generosity – to make life better for British Columbians. You represent the best of the best in our province and serve as an example to us all. Thanks for all that you’ve done and all that you will go on to do.”
