Premier Christy Clark presented Frank Leonard and Lisa Seed with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of their significant achievements and distinguished service to their fellow citizens, on behalf of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett today.

A third recipient, Birgit Bennett, was unable to attend the medal ceremony - she will be recognized for her contributions to British Columbia's art and tourism sector. Bennett's many roles in these fields include director of the Kelowna Art Gallery board, as well as serving on the fundraising gala committees for the Rotary Centre for the Arts and the Daffodil Ball. Bennett also worked on the capital campaign to establish Kelowna's Hospice House. Currently, Bennett volunteers as a provincial appointee for the Provincial Capital Commission.

Mayor of Saanich, Frank Leonard, was presented with a medal for his numerous community service roles in the public sector, including the director of the BC Chamber of Commerce and president of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as president of the Union of BC Municipalities, president of the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities and as a director of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Leonard is presently chair of the Municipal Finance Authority, a trustee for the Municipal Pension Plan and the director of the BC Investment Management Corporation.

Lisa Seed received her medal for her involvement in the arts community and for her ongoing dedication to community service at the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. Since 1996, Seed has served the society in many capacities, including her role as president from 2001 to 2007. With her extensive leadership experience, Seed has also applied her knowledge and skills in financial services and sales management to organize several fundraising events for the Arts Club Theatre Company. Seed has also helped women to succeed in business through her role in the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs Mentor Program.

Medal recipients have made a significant contribution to a province, territory, region or community within Canada, or an achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada. Like Her Majesty, those recognized have dedicated themselves to service to their fellow citizens, communities and country.

Quotes:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"It is a point of pride for us all to recognize these individuals for their outstanding acts of service. Their contributions have enriched the lives of so many British Columbians, and their continuing dedication to community service is an example to everyone."

Quick Facts:

• This commemorative medal was created to mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty's accession to the throne.

• The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal is a tangible way to honour Her Majesty for her service to this country.

• During the year of celebrations, 60,000 deserving Canadians from across the country will be recognized.

• The government of B.C. is presenting approximately 760 medals.

• All MLAs and ministers have been involved in awarding the medals, ensuring they reach as many deserving people in our province as possible.

Learn More:

Additional information on the Diamond Jubilee Medal is available at: www.gg.ca/diamondjubilee

Media Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677