Huntington Univeristy president and vice-chancellor, Kevin McCormick, was appointed to the National Seniors Council on July 18.
Appointed by the Governor in Council, McCormick will join the National Seniors Council, an advisory body providing recommendations to the Government of Canada on matters related to the health, well-being and quality of life of seniors.
The National Seniors Council was reinvigorated after the passing of Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré’s motion m-106, which called on the federal government to create a National Seniors Strategy.
M-106 encouraged the federal government to broaden the mandate of the National Seniors Council to allow it to undertake reviews and analysis on their own initiative, allowing a grassroots approach to gather information and personal experiences from seniors, families and caregivers.
The previous governments had left the seniors council dormant and only allowed them to do consultations by the request of the related ministries, limiting their ability to access valuable information.
The National Seniors Council plays a key role in consulting with Canadians commissioning research, convening expert panels, roundtables and consultations, preparing advice and presenting its findings to the government on seniors-related issues.
“Dr. Kevin McCormick displays remarkable dedication and professionalism, and he is a true ambassador for education and knowledge sharing. Our community has reaped so much from his work and Huntington University has thrived through his leadership. Dr. McCormick’s wealth of experience and his passion to improve the lives of our seniors makes him the perfect addition to the Seniors Council," said Serré.
McCormick is also the honorary colonel of the Irish Regiment of Canada. He finds time to raise awareness of the sacrifices and contributions made by Canadian veterans through the collection of historic military artifacts that he donates to museums and families around the world, which helps ensure the stories of the brave women and men who served Canada are told and honoured.
“I am truly humbled and honoured to be appointed as a new member of the Canada Seniors Council. It is a privilege to be able to give back, in this way. We are all aging, and we all deserve the opportunity to grow old with dignity; having our opinions and wisdom valued, and our life experiences honoured," said McCormick.
"I look forward to engaging with seniors, stakeholders and experts in the development of policies, programs and services that will provide aging Canadians with happy, healthy and fulfilling lives.”
Quick Facts:
- Seniors are the fastest growing demographic group in Canada. By 2030, the number of seniors will reach 9.6 million people, representing close to one quarter of Canada's population.
- Since 2007, the NSC has examined issues related to the social inclusion of seniors, labour participation of older Canadians, low-income among seniors, positive and active aging, volunteerism, and elder abuse.
