E.R. Ward Neale Medal

E.R. Ward Neale Medal

The Neale Medal, named after the legendary E.R. Ward Neale, is awarded to an individual for sustained outstanding efforts in sharing Earth science with Canadians.

The medal shall recognize outstanding efforts to communicate and explain geoscience to the public through one or more of the following vehicles: public lectures, print and electronic-media articles, school visits, elementary and secondary-school educational materials, field trips, science fairs, and other public communication devices. It also shall recognize exemplary records of promoting public-awareness of geoscience activities through the sustained encouragement of, and participation in, the creating, planning, organizing and implementing of such activities.

2025 E.R. Ward Neale Medal

Lesley Hymers

Awarded for her excellence in geoscience communication through over two decades of leadership in education and outreach, fostering connections between science and society, and inspiring professionals and students alike.

Lesley Hymers is the Manager of Education and Outreach Programs for Mining Matters, where she has led many impactful initiatives, including the Geoscience Aware Challenge, which engaged over 250 participants through STEM-focused activities. While at the Ontario Mining Association, she spearheaded the So You Think You Know Mining video contest, which inspired nearly 1,000 creative entries highlighting the mining industry’s societal contributions. She also played a pivotal role in the WHERE Challenge, launched in 2009 to address the lack of awareness about the origins of everyday materials. Her leadership in national organizations, such as the Canadian Federation of Earth Sciences (CFES) and the Canadian Geoscience Education Network (CGEN), has elevated geoscience education across the country. Lesley Hymer’s innovative projects have brought lasting change to the field. She led the redesign of the Earth Science Careers website, ensuring modern, accessible resources for youth and mentors. Her collaboration with Parks Canada resulted in the Geologist in Residence pilot program, which connects communities with geoscientists and fosters appreciation for Canada’s geological heritage. As a co-author of Geoscience and Canada – Understanding our Earth and a contributor to peer-reviewed publications, Lesley excels in making complex geoscientific concepts accessible and engaging. Beyond her professional achievements, Lesley Hymers is known for her mentorship and approachability. She creates inclusive environments that foster collaboration, confidence, and belonging, leaving lasting impressions on colleagues and students alike. Her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment have advanced geoscience communication and education, leaving an indelible mark on the discipline and society.

 

The deadline for National Medal nomination forms is January 5th, 2025

 

Previous Award Winners

2024       Nick Zentner

2023       Jeff Young

2022      Mika McKinnon

2021       Kylie Williams

2020       not awarded

2019       Beth McLarty-Halfkenny

2018       Mark Fenton

2017       Guy Narbonne

2016       Rob Fensome

2015       Nick Eyles

2014       Ben Gadd

2013       Murray Roed

2012       John Calder

2011       Randall F. Miller

2010       Jane Wynne

2009       Eileen Van der Flier-Keller

2008       Christy Vodden

2007       Dixon Edwards

2006       John Clague

2005       Fran Haidl

2004       Peter Russell

2003       David Baird

2002       Bob Turner

2001       Howard Donohoe

2000       D.A.B. Pearson

1999       P. Tremblay

1998       Allan V. Morgan

1997       A.F. King

1996       G.L. Williams

1995       E.R.W. Neale