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Congratulations to Dr. John Bell (left) and Stephen Beckta (right).
The Ottawa Hospital is proud to share that on December 31, 2025, two members of our team were inducted into the Order of Canada.
Dr. John Bell, renowned cancer research scientist at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa, was appointed an Officer to the Order of Canada in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to cancer research, biotherapeutics and the health of Canadians.
For over three decades, Dr. Bell has been at the forefront of cancer biotherapeutics and immunotherapy, developing innovative treatments that use cells, genes and viruses to fight cancer and stimulate an anti-cancer immune response.
“John Bell has helped develop oncolytic virotherapy treatments that harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer. As an entrepreneur, principal investigator, national research network lead and professor at the University of Ottawa, he has built Canada’s foundation in the field, while driving research that shapes international progress,” says Rideau Hall.
In the same appointment last week, Stephen Beckta was inducted as a Member of the Order of Canada.
Beckta is renowned as a successful Ottawa restaurateur, who has been recognized internationally for his work in the industry. What few people know, however, is that he has been working alongside our food services team since 2024 to help reimagine the food we serve at the hospital. In December, this work earned The Ottawa Hospital the Innovation Award from the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario and the Canadian Cancer Society.
“[Stephen] is also admired for his community service as a long-time board member and former chair of the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa, and for his engagement with organizations whose programs positively impact the lives of Canadians,” says Rideau Hall.
Once again, a sincere congratulations to both for this prestigious recognition.
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