British Columbia’s Public Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has received national recognition for ability to lead the province through the worst public health crisis of the century so far.
On Thursday July 9, Dr. Henry was awarded the 2020 Canadian Public Relations Society President’s (CPRS) Award for Outstanding Public Relations and Communications Management.
“Dr. Henry, you have stood out as one of the most talented and effective communicators throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to keep us safe with a consistent message and voice that instills public confidence and calm,” said CPRS President Victor Vrsnik in a statement.
“In the midst of the largest crisis of our generation, you have exemplified how important it is for leaders to be effective communicators, to be transparent with the latest information, and to motivate a change in behaviour in our day-to-day lives to protect the health and safety of British Columbians.”
See also: Behind the scenes of Dr. Bonnie Henry’s daily COVID-19 briefings for B.C. (PHOTOS)
Since the start of the pandemic, Dr. Henry and health minister Adrian Dix have held over 100 public briefings to keep residents of B.C. informed about the spread of the COVID-19 virus and measures to slow the pandemic.
This award celebrates her leadership, straightforward advice, and “Be Kind, Be Calm, Be Safe” message.
Over the past few months, there have been multiple symbols and gestures of gratitude made in honour of B.C.’s provincial health officer.
A baby octopus was named after her at an aquarium in Sidney, she was nominated to receive the Order of Canada, and a shoe designed by John Fluevog in Dr. Henry’s honour sold out within seconds of launch.
Last month, an article in the New York Times also celebrated Dr. Henry as the “Top Doctor Who Aced the Coronavirus Test“.
Having played an instrumental role in keeping B.C.’s coronavirus transmission and death rates flat for several months, Dr. Henry is now taking a well deserved four-day long weekend from July 10 to 13.
The next live briefing by her and Minister Dix is expected to take place on Tuesday July 14.
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