The Dr. John Rook Leadership Award for Poverty Reduction
The Dr. John Rook Leadership Award for Poverty Reduction is presented annually to an outstanding Canadian who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in working to end poverty and embodies the principles of the Canadian Poverty Institute. The award is named in honour of Dr. John Rook, founder of the Canadian Poverty Institute.
2026 Award Recipient
The recipient of the 2026 Dr. John Rook Leadership Award is Harriett Selina McLachlan MSW. Harriett McLachlan is a nationally respected anti‑poverty advocate whose leadership is grounded in lived experience, human rights, and a deep commitment to social justice. As the former President of the Board of Directors and Deputy Director of Canada Without Poverty and a long‑time community leader, McLachlan has played a pivotal role in shifting Canada’s poverty discourse toward dignity‑centered, rights‑based approaches that elevate the voices of those most affected by economic marginalization. Read more about her life and accomplishments here.
The award will be presented on Thursday December 10th at Ambrose University. The Hon. Leela Aheer will deliver the keynote address. If you wish to attend, please register here.
2025 Award Recipient
The recipient of the 2025 Dr. John Rook Leadership Award is Dr. Cindy Blackstock. Dr. Blackstock serves as the Executive Director of the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada and is a Professor at the McGill School of Social Work. Through her life and work she has proven to be an outstanding leader who embodies the principles of the Canadian Poverty Institute. Speaking from an Indigenous perspective, she combines deeply grounded research, legal action, and public education that has forced systemic change (legal, funding, program access) that directly improves life chances for Indigenous children and youth. Read more about her life and accomplishments here.
2024 Award Recipient
The recipient of the 2024 inaugural Dr. John Rook Leadership Award is Sheila Regehr. Ms. Regehr serves as the Chair of Basic Income Canada and is the former Executive Director of the National Council on Welfare. Read more about her accomplishments and lifetime of service here.