Country icon Terri Clark receives one of her home country’s highest honors, the Order of Canada. The appointment recognizes her outstanding achievements, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order of Canada stands as the cornerstone of the Canadian Honors System. Since its creation in 1967, more than 8,250 trailblazers from all sectors of society have been appointed to the Order. While their contributions to Canada vary, they share one common thread: enriching the lives of others and helping shape Canada for the better.

“When I was a young girl growing up in Alberta, with my sights set on the Grand Ole Opry and the CMA, my mother would often talk about one honor being head and shoulders above the rest… the Order of Canada. The highest honor our country can bestow upon a civilian,” shares Clark. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to see so many dreams and wishes come true in my life, but this one is for her. To be included among the likes of Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot, Anne Murray, k.d. lang and so many more is truly humbling. As a proud Canadian, I can’t thank the Governor General of Canada enough for this appointment.”

“The Order of Canada fosters a sense of pride and cohesion in our country,” shares Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada. “Every appointment celebrates not only the talent, expertise and dedication of individuals, but also the countless lives they have touched through their work, vision and contributions. Their commitment extends beyond borders, inspiring progress in our communities, our country and around the world. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to each new appointee on this well‑deserved recognition.”

The legendary singer-songwriter has made history in both her home country and the U.S., cementing her mark in country music across borders. Clark was the first Canadian female member of the Grand Ole Opry, and still holds the honor today. She has been inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and was most recently inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame – joining Joni Mitchell, Sarah McLachlan, Alanis Morissette, Neil Young and Shania Twain in another of Canada’s highest honors.