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