KING CHARLES III’S CORONATION MEDAL CEREMONY

To mark His Majesty King Charles Ill's Coronation on May 6th, 2023, this commemorative medal was created to recognize outstanding individuals of all ages, from all walks of life who have made a difference in their community. Today, we look forward to celebrating those who have provided lasting contributions to their community, industry and country.
 
Congratulations to today’s awards recipients:
 
DIANA MCCALL has been a key figure in early childhood education since 2006, serving as the Early Years and StrongStart Coordinator and a board member of Mission Literacy in Motion. She played a pivotal role in establishing StrongStart, a free, play-based learning program, and has contributed to the Ready Set Learn initiative, supporting Kindergarten transitions. Her dedication has profoundly impacted countless children, families, and caregivers in the community.
 
JIM HINDS, a retired industrial mechanic and electrical safety trainer, served as a Mission Councillor from 2014 to 2018 and chaired the Committee for Safety & Health. Awarded the Freedom of the City in 2022, he remains active in community service as secretary of the Mission Community Archives, treasurer of the Mission Community Skills Centre, and through his work at St. Joseph's Food Bank, Hope Central, and Mission Raceway.
 
JIM PEARCE, a dedicated principal of Mission Senior Secondary since 1990, has positively influenced his students and fostered a vibrant educational community. He is also known for his 2015 rooftop bike ride to raise funds for girls' education and health through the "Because I Am A Girl" organization.
 
JUDITH RAY, a former nurse who cared for Terry Fox, has been a dedicated advocate for affordable housing for people with mental health needs and elders. As a past Executive Director of Pleasantview Care Home and a key figure in the Mission Healthy Community Council, she contributed to Mission's first social development plan and various initiatives. She is currently the Treasurer for the Mission Association for Seniors Housing and co-chair of M.A.T.H., supporting community-based health care services.
 
JACOB BEATON, an expert in business negotiation, real estate, and Indigenous engagement, leads Tea Creek, an award-winning, culturally safe, Indigenous-led initiative. He is also the Executive Director of the Indigenous Food Sovereignty and has consulted with over 60 First Nations since 2001 on communications, digital strategy, and economic development. Jacob’s heritage includes Haida Gwaii, Heiltsuk, Gitzaala, and British Isles, and he is known by the name Dzapt Gygyaawn Sgyiik from the Gispaxloats tribe.
 
STAN VANDER WAAL is the CEO of Rainbow Greenhouses, a horticultural company based in Chilliwack, BC, which he and his wife Wilma founded 38 years ago. The family-run business has grown to four locations with over 800 employees and 5 million square feet of advanced greenhouse facilities. Stan, known for his collaborative leadership, is involved in various agricultural boards and remains active in his community with his family.