Lieutenant-Governor Recognizes Excellence in Public Administration
The Province’s Deputy Minister of Health and Wellness, Jeannine Lagassé, has been named the 2023 recipient of the Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
The medal is presented annually to a person in public administration who exhibits the highest standard of excellence, dedication and accomplishment.
“For over 25 years, Jeannine Lagassé has provided essential leadership and cemented relationships between the government, health authorities and healthcare partners,” said Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc. “She has demonstrated courage and commitment in unprecedented circumstances and continuously strives to improve the delivery of healthcare services across the province.”
Ms. Lagassé is being recognized for developing sound public policy and for her leadership in service and program delivery. Her professional experience includes work with legal services, the executive branch of government and the most senior levels of management in the field of health and wellness.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Lagassé played a key leadership role in the procurement of personal protective equipment, testing and vaccine protocols and ongoing support for public health staff and volunteers.
She previously provided legal guidance for the establishment of Nova Scotia Business Incorporated, now part of Invest Nova Scotia, and the creation of a governance and accountability branch at the Executive Council Office. As secretary to cabinet, Ms. Lagassé improved organizational systems and accountability mechanisms supporting budgets, corporate strategy and service delivery models.
The award program is administered by the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) Nova Scotia and is sponsored by Davis Pier. The Lieutenant-Governor of Nova Scotia serves as its patron.
An award ceremony will take place at Government House in January.
Quotes:
“Jeannine Lagassé’s journey as a public servant spans over 25 years, marked by an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of public administration. From her pivotal role in shaping the landscape of business and economic development, to her transformative leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, she has exemplified dedication, transparency and tireless pursuit of improved public services for all Nova Scotians. IPAC NS is proud to present her with this year’s award, recognizing not only her professional achievements, but also her profound impact on the community through active volunteerism and commitment to lifelong learning.”
– Emma Miller, Chair, IPAC Nova Scotia
Quick Facts:
- 36 people have been awarded the medal since 1986
- the award recipient is chosen from nominations submitted by the government and academic organizations each year
- the Institute of Public Administration of Canada includes members from all levels of government, public sector bodies and institutions
Additional Resources:
Information on the Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration: https://www.ipacnovascotia.ca/lg-awards
IPAC Nova Scotia: https://www.ipacnovascotia.ca