2012 Bonjour! Awards

In recognition of outstanding French-language programs and services, Acadian Affairs recently presented the 2012 Bonjour! Awards.

Launched three years ago, the awards inspire public servants to respond proactively to the needs of the Acadian and francophone community. Nominated by the public or by their colleagues, individuals or groups are given consideration in three categories: Excellence in Leadership, Excellence in Program Development, and Excellence in Service Delivery to the Public.

This year, the Award for Excellence in Leadership was presented to Richard Burton, regional co-ordinator of maintenance enforcement at the Department of Justice in Kentville. By continually encouraging employees to complete training in French-language legal terminology, Mr. Burton helps to ensure that Acadians and francophones have access to legal support services in their own language.

The 2012 Award for Excellence in Program Development was presented to the Acadian flag licence plate team. In consultation with the Acadian and francophone community, staff members at Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations developed and launched a licence plate that celebrates Acadian heritage.

Finally, this year’s Award for Excellence in Service Delivery to the Public was presented to Heather-Anne Gillis, the main receptionist at the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal head office in Halifax. Ms. Gillis promotes French-language services by displaying Bonjour! signs in the reception area and by offering a friendly “Bonjour!” to French-speakers she knows or people she overhears speaking French. 

Nominations for the 2013 Bonjour! Awards will be accepted in the fall. To learn about the nomination process, visit the Awards section of Acadian Affairs’ website.

To learn more about the Bonjour! Program, or to view a list of government departments, offices, and agencies that provide information and services in French, visit the Bonjour! section of Acadian Affairs’ website.