To recognize outstanding achievement in the fields of geography, education, science, and exploration, and for volunteering to assist the Society, the following awards were given in 2026 to individuals who have made a special impact.
Rt. Hon. Vincent Massey Medal
Awarded to Alex Miller, president and founder of Esri Canada.
Gold Medal
Awarded to Dr. Mark Terry, a Canadian scholar, polar explorer and documentary filmmaker.
Charles Camsell Medal
Awarded to Janet Ruest, an educator and dedicated volunteer of the RCGS who has served six years as the Can Geo Education representative for British Columbia.
Lawrence J. Burpee Medal
Awarded to H.E. Whit Fraser, Canadian journalist, broadcaster and author; and to Dr. James Delgado, a maritime archaeologist, historian, explorer and public educator.
Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration
Awarded to Hugh Brody, an acclaimed British anthropologist, writer, filmmaker, and social philosopher; and to John Dunn, a Canadian Arctic explorer.
Martin Bergmann Medal for Excellence in Arctic Leadership
Awarded to Dr. Gita Ljubicic, Canada Research Chair in Community-Engaged Research for Northern Sustainability at McMaster University.
Capt. Joseph-Elzéar Bernier Medal
Awarded to H.E. Alfredo Martínez Serrano, Ambassador of Spain to Canada.
Louie Kamookak Medal
Awarded to Ken McGoogan, Canadian author on Arctic exploration.
Alex Trebek Medal for Geographic Literacy
Awarded to Johanna Hughes, an Ottawa-based educator in geography.
Gilles Gagnier Medal for Innovation in Geographic Education
Awarded to Cynthia Bettio, a geography educator.
