Order of St. Stanislas BM
Order of Saint Stanislas is a Polish order of knighthood that was instituted in 1765 by the last Polish King before the partitions of the country, King Stanislaw August Poniatowski. It is deeply grounded in the history of the final years of the Kingdom of Poland before its dissolution (a Commonwealth Kingdom which included Polish Lithuania, Ukraine and Belarus), and it is a symbol of Polish heritage and culture. The institution of Order came with the development of Bishop-Martyr’s cult, a defender of faith and those who suffer. After the 1830 Uprising by Russian tsars, it was incorporated into the honors system of the Russian Empire, and by independence, the Second Republic of Poland replaced it with Order of the Rebirth of Poland. However, by the 9th of July 1979, at the 900th Anniversary of the death of the Marty of Saint Stanislas, Order of Saint Stanislas was reinstituted by the President of Republic of Poland and Polish Government (in Exile) and since 1990 Order become an independent world-wide distinction.
Dear Dames and Cavaliers
Congratulations on your remarkable achievements as the honourable recipients of the Order of St. Stanislas over the past decade! Your dedication and hard work have truly set you apart, and we are proud to celebrate your contributions and recognitions.
The collaboration with Brilliant Minded Women Foundation highlights the extraordinary impact we can achieve together. Your commitment to philanthropy and community support is inspiring and exemplifies the spirit of unity and purpose that drives us all.
As we honor your successes, let us also recognize the incredible journey ahead. Together, we are creating a brighter future for those in need, not only in Małopolska but Globally. Your efforts will undoubtedly pave the way for future leaders and initiatives that will continue to make a difference.
Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to our continued collaboration and the positive change we can bring to our communities together.
Class I
(GCCStS)
Great Cross with Crown on the Ribbon & the Gold Star
Class II
(CSStS)
Commander’s Cross with Crown & the Silver Star
Class III
(CStS)
Commander’s Cross with Crown
Class IV
(OCStS)
Officer’s Cross with Crown
Class V
(KCStS)
Knight’s Cross with Crown
JACEK ŻYRKOWSKI
Prior Małopolski OSSt
MAREK KRAMARSKI
Deputy Prior of Małopolska
MACIEJ KALISKI
Grand Herald and Bailiff of Order of St. Stanislas
AGATA KLIMCZAK
The Great Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Gold Star
Dames and Cavaliers
Iwona Ewa Kirejczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Hazel McCallion
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Vera Mercier
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Agnieszka Szewczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Kevin Aguanno
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Juliusz Kirejczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Marie Buchan
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Maria De Bialynia Woycikiewicz
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Aniela Ganczak
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Agata Grajdek
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Emily Krula
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Fran Rider
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Jerzy de Bialynia Woycikiewicz
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Mateusz Malek
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Kenneth J Michalak
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Jean Augustine
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Evelyn Bailey
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Dauna Jones-Simmonds
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Carmela Liparoti
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Margaret Maye
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Andrzej Gadomski
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Sanju Ganglani
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Chris Jakubowski
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
John Kiefte
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Copernicus Lodge
Officer’s Cross, Order of StS
Gallery
JACEK ŻYRKOWSKI
Prior Małopolski OSSt
Since 2004, Knight Jacek Żyrkowski has been the Prior of Małopolska. A graduate in Electronics, Organization and Management, and Renewable Resources and Energy Sources from the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków, Jacek also completed a degree in Tourism Organization and Economics at the Kraków University of Economics. He worked for ten years in the Diocesan Management of the Catholic Action in the Archdiocese of Kraków. He established several Housing Cooperatives, constructing around 250 houses and apartments, including for young residents of orphanages. As a teacher in Kraków’s Electronic and Tourism Technical Schools, he organized internships for students in Italy under the ERASMUS+ program.
MAREK KRAMARSKI
Deputy Prior of Małopolska
In 2009, Knight Marek Kramarski GCCStS, from a notable Kraków family, became the Deputy Prior of Małopolska. An entrepreneur since his school years, Marek used his chemical background to start a workshop for sunglasses and corrective glasses frames while managing dealerships for four car and two motorcycle brands. Since 2000, he has operated a Medical Products Consulting Firm. He played a key role in reviving the Chamber of Commerce in Kraków, serving on its Council from 1992 to 1994. Since 1997, Marek has been actively involved in charitable work, including fundraising for flood victims, supporting the St. Lazarus Hospice, and organizing meals for the homeless. He also supports disabled children from the Special Educational and Care Center No. 4 in Kraków and funds rehabilitation trips and Christmas packages for various hospices.
MACIEJ KALISKI
Grand Herald and Bailiff of Order of St. Stanislas
Maciej, born March 2, 1947, is the Starosta of the Silesian-Galician District of the UofPM Org. The son of Zbigniew A. Kaliski and Wanda R. Woycikiewicz, he is a professor of technical sciences and an engineer. He graduated from AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków in 1970, earned his PhD in 1975, and achieved habilitation in mining and engineering geology in 1990 from the Silesian University of Technology. He has authored around 280 scientific publications and supervised 14 doctoral students. He has held academic positions at the University of Algiers and completed internships in Belgium and Syria. His career includes roles with CBR, Heidelberg Cement, and the Polish Ministry of Economy, where he was Deputy Minister of Economy during the Polish EU presidency. He received numerous and holds prestigious positions.
AGATA KLIMCZAK
The Great Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Gold Star
From Oswiecim, Poland, has forged a distinguished path marked by resilience and leadership. She studied at Tourism Hospitality College in Zywiec and Wyzsza Szkola Pedagogiczna in Czestochowa. In 1987, Agata moved to Greece and settled in Canada in 1989. At Casino Niagara, she excelled in marketing while earning diplomas in International Marketing and Tourism Hospitality. Agata’s entry into network marketing led her to global recognition and top positions. Since 2014, she has spoken in over 15 countries, founded Brilliant Minded Women to promote female leadership, and actively supports gender equality. A dedicated mother to entrepreneurs Joanna and Patrick. Agata is also a respected speaker, author, and mentor. Her notable recognition include the Top Leaders Award, Chamber of Commerce Award, and Ontario Volunteer Award.
Iwona Ewa Kirejczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Iwona, born in Warsaw, Poland, is a compassionate educator with a legacy of service. The daughter of a Warsaw Uprising participant, she inherited a strong work ethic from her parents. After earning her Master’s in Geography and a doctorate in education for blind and visually impaired children, Iwona began her teaching career in Poland, gaining recognition for her work. In 1990, she moved to Canada with her family and joined the York Catholic District School Board, where she taught special education and ESL for 21 years, helping Polish newcomers into Canadian society. Her dedication significantly impacted her students and their families. Iwona is a devoted mother and grandmother. She enjoys traveling, reading, and painting. She has received several awards, including the Knight’s Cross of Order of Polonia Restituta.
Hazel McCallion
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Hazel is a prominent Canadian politician and businesswoman, passed away at 101. Born in Port Daniel, Quebec, in 1921, she began her career with Canadian Kellogg and entered politics as Mayor of Streetsville, Ontario, from 1970 to 1973. Following the amalgamation with Mississauga, she served as Mayor of Mississauga from 1978 for 36 years, guiding the city’s transformation into one of Canada’s largest urban centers. Renowned for her dynamic and hands-on leadership, Hazel drove substantial economic and community development. She also held roles on various boards, was the first chancellor of Sheridan College, and advised the Ontario government. Her contributions were recognized with awards including Order of Canada and Order of Ontario. Hazel’s legacy as a pioneering leader and dedicated advocate remains a lasting inspiration.
Vera Mercier
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
As a St. Lucian-born Canadian entrepreneur she has made a significant impact both locally and nationally. After moving to Canada and earning a finance degree, she began her career as an auditor at the Toronto Transit Commission. Driven by a love for children, she founded the first French bilingual childcare center in Durham Region, reflecting her commitment to early childhood education. Vera is a strong advocate for the Black community, promoting economic empowerment and social justice through initiatives across countries. She serves on various boards, including the Ontario Childcare Society and Special Education Advisory Committee, and is a mentor and certified mortgage agent. Her work has earned her awards like the Black Canadian Awards and the Trillium Award for Outstanding CFO, highlighting her dedication to community service and inclusivity.
Agnieszka Szewczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Agnieszka, born in Połczyn-Zdrój, Poland, moved with her family to cities like Poznań and Mirosławiec due to her parents’ work. They soon settled in Kraków near her grandparents, where she married and raised two children. In 2002, she founded her own company after gaining diverse experience in roles such as an accountant, warehouse worker, and factory employee. Her business has grown significantly, earning respect in its field. Agnieszka is a strong advocate for continuous learning and innovation, currently developing training programs to address industry skill shortages. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including a divorce and single parenthood, she has successfully rebuilt her company and created a lasting legacy through her leadership and vision.
Kevin Aguanno
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Kevin is a prominent project management expert from Toronto, with degrees from the University of Western Ontario and George Washington University. With over thirty years of experience, he is renowned for his innovative approaches to agile project management and rescuing troubled projects. Kevin has authored several books as well as collaborating with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and intern. organizations. As president of Procept Associates Ltd., Procept USA LLC, and TidalShift Inc., he leads with a focus on operational excellence and client value. In addition to his professional roles, Kevin contributes to academia and professional organizations, including the Project Management Association of Canada. He is involved in charitable initiatives, mentoring young leaders.
Juliusz Kirejczyk
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown & Silver Star
Born in Warsaw, Poland, he earned an M.Sc. in mechanical engineering (1972) and a PhD in technical sciences (1985) from the Warsaw University of Technology. He began his career at the Automotive Industry Institute in Warsaw and worked for Opel, Volkswagen, and General Motors on automotive innovations. After moving to Canada in 1990, he worked at Magna International until 2008 and as a technical consultant until 2018. An award-winning inventor, he has numerous patents in automotive technology. Active in the Canadian Polish community, he has held leadership roles with the Canadian Polish Congress and the Association of Polish Engineers. He has been honored with the Officer’s Cross of Order of Merit of Poland, among other awards. He is a devoted father to his son and two grandchildren.
Marie Buchan
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
She is a distinguished philanthropist celebrated for her impactful charitable work. Together with her husband, Robert, she passionately supports a wide range of initiatives, demonstrating their shared dedication to fostering positive change. Balancing her time between Toronto and California, Marie manages her roles as a devoted wife and daughter while actively engaging in extensive philanthropic activities. Her remarkable contributions have earned her several prestigious accolades. Marie has been honored with the title of Dame of Order of St. Stanislas, recognizing her exceptional service and commitment to charity. Additionally, she and Robert have been named Brilliant Mind Global Ambassadors and awarded Philanthropist of the Year by the Brilliant Minded Women Organization and Foundation.
Maria de Bialynia Woycikiewicz
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Maria is a journalist and economic commentator who has focused on economic issues since the 1990s. Starting her career at Dziennik Zachodni, she has since contributed to Gazeta Bankowa, Puls Biznesu, and Forbes. Her work has earned her Columbia University’s Award of Excellence in Journalism, the Ostre Pióro BCC award four times, and the Złoty Laur Umiejętności i Kompetencji from the Regional Chamber of Commerce in Katowice. Maria has organized the Silesia Press journalism competition for nearly 20 years and authored the book “Religa: Świat wokół serca”, with proceeds benefiting cardiac surgery. She is known for her charitable efforts, she initiated a calendar project featuring journalism stars in costumes by Barbara Ptak, with proceeds supporting youth at Dom Aniołów Stróżów.
Aniela Ganczak
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Born in Józefów near Lublin, Poland, into a military family linked with the Home Army during WWII, Aniela earned a master’s in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Lublin. She started her career in spatial planning in Zamość and later became Head of the Environmental Approval and Planning Department. In 1992, she emigrated to Canada with her daughters, quickly becoming active in the Polish community through cultural and philanthropic work, including founding a charitable foundation for impoverished children in Poland. Aniela led the Ladies’ Circle of Hope until 2024, supporting healthcare and families in need, and was involved with the Canadian Polish Congress – Toronto Branch and the Copernicus Home. She enjoys hiking and takes pride in her roles as a mother and grandmother. Her warmth and dedication have made her a respected figure in her family and community.
Agata Grajdek
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Born in 1975 in Ogrodzieniec, Agata Grajdek grew up with her brothers Robert and Mariusz and parents Maria and Teofil. Educated at Primary School No. 5 in Zawiercie, she formed a lasting friendship with Joanna and later pursued a nursing diploma at medical school. After meeting and marrying Grzegorz and having their daughter Kinga, Agata began her career as a dental assistant at Krzysztof Majewski’s practice. She furthered her education at the Adult Medical School in Zawiercie, becoming a dental hygienist and later a certified contract teacher. Agata has earned various diplomas, including ISO 9001:2015 and healthcare management certifications, and completed over 60 courses in medicine and management. She actively supports charitable causes like the “Noble Box” program and enjoys crafting and caring for her dogs.
Emily Krula
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Emily Krula, a key figure in Toronto’s Polish Canadian community, has devoted her life to service, heritage preservation, and civic leadership. Raised in Toronto by Polish immigrant parents, Emily was deeply influenced by their commitment to family and community. Her father, a railway worker who arrived in 1927, and her mother, who supported and welcomed new immigrants, instilled in her a strong work ethic and community spirit. Emily’s engagement with organizations like the Maria Curie Skłodowska Club and the Canadian Scouts highlights her dedication. She also pursued political advocacy to enhance Polish representation in Canada. Her legacy includes preserving Polish culture and inspiring future generations to value their heritage and contribute to society.
Fran Rider
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Born in 1954 in Toronto, Fran is a pioneering figure in women’s ice hockey. She founded the Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA) in 1975, transforming it into a vital organization that supports thousands of female athletes and organizes numerous leagues and tournaments. Fran’s advocacy was crucial for the inclusion of women’s ice hockey in the Olympic Winter Games, starting in Nagano in 1998. Internationally, she played a key role in establishing the IIHF Women’s World Championship, which has been held regularly since 1990. Her efforts have significantly advanced the recognition and growth of women’s hockey worldwide. Throughout her career, Fran has received numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada in 2015 and induction into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2019. These honors reflect her unwavering commitment and profound impact on the sport.
Jerzy de Bialynia Woycikiewicz
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Jerzy, influenced by his family’s varied fortunes, pursued a career as an engineer and entrepreneur. His grandfather, originally from Austria-Hungary, moved to Lwów, Poland, before World War II, where he represented Bosch, but lost everything after the war and started anew in Bytom. Jerzy’s mother worked in Home Army counterintelligence, and his father assisted General Józef Haller. These experiences shaped Jerzy’s early education in history and economics. He continued his studies at the Higher Officer’s Automotive School and Silesian University of Technology, focusing on automotive electromechanics. Throughout his career, Jerzy has trained hundreds, supported learners, and contributed to charity auctions in Poland, reflecting his commitment to education and social causes.
Mateusz Malek
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Born on April 23, 1978, Mateusz Małek is a dedicated husband and father of two teenage sons. He holds a master’s degree in International Transport and Freight Forwarding and has completed postgraduate studies in Logistics Management and an MBA in Small and Medium Enterprises. Mateusz is the co-founder and partner of XL LOGISTICS, which has thrived under his leadership. His commitment to personal and professional growth is evident from his participation in various training programs and ongoing postgraduate studies at Lazarski University. Recognized for his achievements with awards like Businessman Award 2023 and Business Champion 2023, Mateusz is also active in economic conferences and supports educational and charitable causes. In his free time, he enjoys family life, travel, film, and sports.
Kenneth J Michalak
Commander’s Cross, Order of StS with Crown
Ken’s distinguished career spans over 50 years, rooted in his entrepreneurial beginnings inspired by his grandparents’ bakery. A Toronto native and Wilfrid Laurier University graduate, Kenneth began his career at the Canada Revenue Agency and earned his Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. In 1986, he founded his own accounting practice, gaining a reputation for personalized financial services. Kenneth is deeply committed to his community, serving on the board of a local credit union, coaching Little League Baseball, and advocating for the arts with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. He is also a mentor to aspiring professionals. Outside of work, Ken enjoys fishing, fine wines, and cherishing time with his family, including his granddaughter Callie and his life partner Agata. His dedication to profession and community leaves a lasting impact of excellence and generosity.
Jean Augustine
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Born in St. George’s, Grenada, Jean immigrated to Canada in 1960 and became a prominent figure in education and politics. She earned degrees from the University of Toronto and served as an elementary school teacher and principal with the Metropolitan Separate School Board. Augustine was instrumental in organizing the Caribana Festival and held leadership roles with the National Black Coalition of Canada and the Urban Alliance on Race Relations. In 1993, she made history as the first African-Canadian woman elected to Canada’s House of Commons, representing Etobicoke—Lakeshore until 2006, and held significant positions such as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Minister of State for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women. She played a key role in establishing Black History Month in Canada and advocating for the Famous Five Monument.
Evelyn Bailey
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Evelyn is a first-generation Chilean Canadian born in Toronto, draws inspiration from her diverse heritage and early immersion in fine arts. Raised by parents who fled Chile during the Pinochet dictatorship, her Jamaican ancestry is reflected in her surname. Evelyn pursued a degree in Art of Animation, excelling in both traditional and digital forms. After a tragic fire destroyed her family’s home in Chile, she returned to Canada and became a mother to twin boys in 2016. In 2017, she founded Evalution Workshop, empowering others through creativity and healing. As Creative Director of the award-winning Light Show in Cambridge and through her company Enlightened Art Inc., launched in 2021, Evelyn blends technology and art to inspire and innovate. Her contributions to Niagara Falls’ cultural scene and work with Spark Innovations highlight her impact as a visionary in the arts, fostering both personal and community growth.
Dauna Jones-Simmonds
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
She is celebrated as one of Canada’s top 100 Most Influential Black People and a recipient of the Brilliant Minded Award, hails from St. Kitts. The 13th of 14 children, Dauna matured early and moved to Nevis with her aunt before returning to St. Kitts, where she became known for her community involvement and sports, particularly netball. In Canada, she co-founded JOIN, a non-profit for people with disabilities, served as Chair of the ACCES Employment Board for over six years, and contributed to boards. She also co-founded the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women project, which celebrates influential Black Canadian women. In 2024, Dauna made history as the first Black President-Elect of the Rotary Club of Toronto. Her recent philanthropic efforts include donating syringes to diabetics in St. Kitts and creating menstrual pads for homeless women in the Dominican Republic.
Carmela Liparoti
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Born in Buenos Aires, immigrated to Canada at seven. Settling in Toronto, she grew up embracing her Nipissing Algonquin Métis heritage alongside her Italian roots. She studied languages at York University and began her career in social work, serving the Mississauga Italian community. Carmela became President of the Mississauga Italian Canadian Benevolent Association (MICBA), leading projects like Forum Italia Non-Profit Housing Corporation and Villa Forum Long Term Care Home. Her humanitarian efforts include over two decades of volunteer work with Sunshine Dreams for Kids and C.PP.S. Mission projects in Tanzania. Recognized with awards such as the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award, Carmela has also received the Cavaliere, Ordine della Stella della Solidarietà Italiana for her global influence.
Margaret Maye
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Margaret exemplifies resilience and compassion through her advocacy, artistic work, and community service. After her son’s epilepsy diagnosis, she co-founded the Epilepsy Cure Initiative Organization (ECI) in 1997 to advance public education and advocate for better treatments. ECI has organized key events and driven legislative changes in Canada, such as establishing Epilepsy Awareness Days at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill. Margaret’s influence also extends to the arts, where she promotes cultural diversity. Her contributions have earned her several accolades, including Order of Merit from the Polish Ministry of Culture, the Silver Award from the Polish Canadian Congress, the Volunteer Achievement Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Brilliant Minded Woman Foundation.
Andrzej Gadomski
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Andrzej is a successful entrepreneur and real estate owner who has made significant contributions to his community. Immigrating from central Poland over 40 years ago, he settled in St. Catharines, Ontario, where he embarked on a career with General Motors. His work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore various business ventures, ultimately establishing a thriving real estate portfolio that has made a significant impact in his community. A devoted husband and father of two accomplished children, Andrzej is also a proud grandfather to four. He cherishes family time and instills strong values in his loved ones, celebrating their successes as his own. Outside of his professional life, Andrzej enjoys hunting, fishing, and traveling, embracing adventures that allow him to connect with nature and experience new cultures.
Sanju Ganglani
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Sanju is a prominent leader in global marketing, steering the award-winning Ganglani Media (AskUsForAnything.com) with almost 20 years of experience. Under his guidance, the company has become a major player in the marketing sector, offering services like SEO, lead generation, social media management, design and branding, print, and website development across Canada, the USA, Africa, and Europe. Sanju champions global connectivity and values understanding diverse markets and cultures. He believes in kindness as the highest currency, fostering meaningful global connections. Committed to charitable causes, Ganglani Media supports organizations such as IJM Canada, NourishHope, and Skills for Change. He served on the board of the Brilliant Minded Women Foundation and contributes to Blues for the Red Door, Heroes in Black, Pink Attitude, and Business in the Streets.
Chris Jakubowski
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
Mega City Linen & Uniform Supply began its journey in 1990 when Chris, driven by a vision to establish his own empire in Canada, founded the company. Starting humbly in the garage of his home, Chris’s ambition and hard work transformed Mega City into a powerhouse in the hospitality industry. Today, Mega City is renowned for offering unparalleled service to a diverse clientele including hotels, golf courses, banquet halls, convention centers, restaurants, and private residences across Canada. At the heart of Mega City’s ethos is a commitment to providing top-tier service and a wide selection of high-quality goods. Integrity and reliability are foundational to their operations, ensuring that clients not only receive superior service but also enjoy a memorable experience with every interaction. Chris is married to Dorota and is the loving father to Jessica and Sandra.
John Kiefte
Knight’s Cross, Order of StS
As the son of Dutch post war immigrants, he was born and raised in the GTA. He was instilled with a work ethic and nurtured his business skills at an early age, while working in the family restaurant business. He went on to own and manage several of his own locations. He later diversified his business background with various projects. Within the marketing field he has introduced several environmental based products and services into the business and consumer community. He has had positions as a president, vice-president, marketing manager, national sales manager and as a director in several companies and organizations. His business acumen has taught him to develop long-term relationships and strategic alliances, always striving for integrity and respect. The author of several books, and various articles.
Copernicus Lodge
Officer’s Cross, Order of StS
Since its founding in 1979 by Father Michael Smith, OMI, and a dedicated board, Copernicus Lodge has served Polish seniors in Toronto’s Roncesvalles Village. Initially established to support those affected by wartime and Siberian exile, the Lodge provides a culturally rich environment that integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual care. Over 45 years, it has grown to accommodate over 400 seniors with independent living and long-term care facilities. As a nonprofit, it relies on government funding and community donations. Celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2024, the Lodge marked the occasion with events like the Galaxy Ball and the revival of the Father Michael Smith Annual Golf Tournament. It continues to engage with the community at events like the Roncesvalles Polish Festival and remains committed to its mission of compassion, respect, and cultural preservation for Toronto’s aging Polish population.