Christopher Burn presented with Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society has honoured Carleton’s Christopher Burn for his contribution as vice-president of the society. He was presented with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, given to outstanding Canadians who have contributed to Canada through their service and achievements.
“I was surprised and delighted to recieve this award,” said Burn, who was closely affiliated with the society for 10 years and served as its vice-president for five. “The society exists to help Canadians to understand their country, and so it is an incredibly important venue for national education.”
Burn has been a part of Carleton’s Department of Geography and Environmental Studies since 1992. His research centres on the impact of climate change on permafrost terrain. He has been studying frozen ground for nearly 30 years and has an immense amount of experience conducting research in Canada’s north. For the past three decades, Burn has been dividing his time between central Yukon and the western Arctic. He holds an NSERC Northern Research Chair.
He is the editor of a new book, entitled Herschel Island Qikiqtaryuk: A Natural and Cultural History of Yukon’s Arctic Island, which features a substantial representation of authors with Northern origins. It will be released at the International Polar Year Conference in Montreal on April 23, 2012.
About the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal:
In 2012, a new commemorative medal was created to mark the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne as Queen of Canada. The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal is a tangible way for Canada to honour Her Majesty for her service to this country. At the same time, it serves to honour significant contributions and achievements by Canadians, 60,000 of whom will be recognized throughout 2012.
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society was selected as a partner organization by the Diamond Jubilee Medal program and was given a small allotment of medals. They will be awarded to meritorious fellows, volunteers and staff who have contributed to the society and advanced its programs.
