From humanitarian efforts to contributions to environmentalism and the arts, nine Londoners made the list for this year’s Mayor’s New Year’s Honour List. According to a news release from the city, Mayor Josh Morgan recently announced the 2026 Mayor’s New Year’s Honour List. The list recognizes “outstanding members of the London community whose dedication and service have made a meaningful difference in the city.” The 2026 honourees are: Gord Miller (age friendly): Miller is a long-time volunteer in the London community known for supporting and empowering seniors in a variety of organizations. Brenda Zadorsky (arts): Zadorsky transformed a spontaneous musical moment into Canada’s leading youth choir organization. Charlotte Cleland (distinguished Londoner): Cleland is a retired teacher who continues to teach piano in London and has been the festival administrator of the Kiwanis Music Festival since 1979. Chris Ewer and Nancy Wister (distinguished Londoners): Ewer and Wister are long-serving members of the White Oaks Community Council, and have been the driving force behind the Canada Day celebrations in White Oaks. Margaret Hopkins (distinguished Londoner): Hopkins is a community organizer, instigator and tireless advocate for making Wortley Village one of the best neighbourhoods in Canada. Tom Delaney (distinguished Londoner): Delaney is a business leader, known for his ethical and compassionate approach to management who applies this same leadership to the community and acts as chair of the Hyde Park BIA. Beth Hundey (environment) (posthumous): Hundey was an adjunct research professor at the Centre for Research on Teaching and Learning at Western University. Sharie Evans (humanitarianism): Evans does important and meaningful work through the Kinship Service Unit, a service that provides support for children not in Children’s Aid Society of London care. “This year’s honourees truly embody the generosity, dedication, and community spirit that define London,” said Morgan. “Their contributions and commitment have made a lasting impact on our city, and we are proud to recognize their achievements. Congratulations to each of this year’s recipients.” The Mayor of London’s Honour List began in 1976 with a focus on recognizing contributions to the arts. Since then, additional categories have been introduced to reflect the wide range of ways individuals and organizations contribute to community life in the Forest City. Recipients for the honours list are made based on recommendations from advisory committees or community organizations through the city’s standing committees process.
