Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, has announced 83 new appointments to the Order of Canada, including Robert Thomas Foster, PharmD, PhD, C.M., A.O.E.
Dr. Foster is recognized for his significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry, which have transformed lives around the world. A gifted leader, he is widely respected for his commitment to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of scientists through his work at the University of Alberta.
A former CEO of Isotechnika Pharma (now Aurinia), CSO of Aurinia Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: AUPH), and CEO of Hepion Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: HEPA), Dr. Foster currently serves as chairman of closely-held Cell Technologies. Among other accomplishments, he and his team are credited for the discovery of voclosporin (Isotechnika/Aurinia), the first FDA-approved drug for Lupis Nephritis.
Established in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honors, recognizing outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, and service to the nation. To date, more than 8200 individuals have been appointed to the Order.
In a statement, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, remarked, “Congratulations to the newest appointees to the Order of Canada. We proudly recognize each of these individuals whose dedication and passion for service not only enrich our communities but also help shape the fabric of our nation. Together, they inspire us to strive for greatness and to foster a future filled with hope and possibility.”
