UNBC professor recognized for advancing understanding of Canada’s North, Arctic

UNBC Political Science Professor Dr. Gary Wilson has been awarded the Polar Medal, one of Canada’s highest honours recognizing exceptional contributions to strengthening understanding and awareness of the nation’s North and polar regions.

He received it from Louise Arbour, Governor General of Canada, during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on Thursday.

Wilson is the first member of the UNBC community to receive this distinction.

“I am deeply humbled and profoundly grateful to receive this award. I am indebted to my family and colleagues for their support over the years, and I am grateful to UNBC, which helped shape me as a northern and Arctic scholar,” says Wilson. “Throughout my travels across the North, I have had the privilege of meeting remarkable people whose dedication to their communities and regions has inspired and motivated my work. This recognition reflects not only my own efforts, but also the many relationships, collaborations and learning opportunities that have shaped my career.”

Over the last two decades at UNBC, he has focused extensively on the evolution of self-government in the Inuit regions of the Canadian Arctic, culminating in the co-authored book, Nested Federalism and Inuit Governance in the Canadian Arctic. His work has also explored comparative Indigenous-state relations in Norway, Sweden and Russia, as well as Indigenous diplomacy and internationalism across the Circumpolar North.

“Dr. Wilson’s research has informed public discourse, contributed to evidence-based policymaking and strengthened connections among governments, Indigenous communities, researchers and citizens. It has helped ensure northern perspectives are not only heard but respected in conversations that shape the future of Canada and the Circumpolar North,” says UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen. “Beyond his scholarly contributions, Gary has been a dedicated educator, mentor and colleague whose work exemplifies the values of engagement, collaboration and service that define UNBC.”

In addition to his scholarship, Wilson has played a significant leadership role in advancing northern studies and Arctic research through his involvement in academic associations including the Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies, the International Arctic Social Sciences Association and the University of the Arctic.

“Dr. Wilson’s ability to engage with communities and collaborate widely has built capacity at the regional, national and international level, deepening understanding of the issues and challenges facing northern communities and the people who live there,” says UNBC Provost and Vice-President, Academic Dr. Michel S. Beaulieu.

“On behalf of the University community I congratulate Gary on this remarkable achievement. His receipt of the Polar Medal reflects not only the impact of his scholarship and leadership, but also the vital role universities play in generating knowledge that informs public policy, strengthens communities and fosters respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples.”

He currently chairs the Political Science Department and coordinated the Northern Studies Program for more than 15 years, recently returning as Acting Program Coordinator.