Dr. Bryce Taylor, professor of general surgery at the University of Toronto and former Varsity Blues star football player, has been named a Member of the Order of Canada – one of the country's highest civilian honours.
 
Taylor is being recognized for his "sustained impact on the teaching and practice of surgery in Canada." He is recognized, in particular, for his advocacy in improving surgical safety standards and patient care. He has helped devise a safe surgery checklist, which has been found to reduce surgical complications and mortality.
 
The three-time provincial all-star quarterbacked the Varsity Blues to the first ever Vanier Cup championship title in 1965. Taylor is a member of the Varsity Blues football all-century team and also served as the team's kicker during his five years on the squad (1962-66)
 
Taylor earned his medical degree and completed postgraduate training at U of T. His specialities are hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery. He was part of the team that initiated the U of T Liver Transplant Program, and he describes the lessons he learned over a career in leadership roles in the book Effective Medical Leadership.
 
Varsity Blues football alumni in the Order of Canada
 
Companion (C.C.)
Recognizes national pre-eminence or international service or achievement.
Lester Pearson (1968)
John Evans (1979)
Bill Davis (1985)
Fraser Mustard (1993)
 
Officer (O.C.)
Recognizes national service or achievement.
Trevor Eyton (1985)
 
Member (C.M.)
Recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity.                 
Bob Rumball
Al Giachino (2009)
Bob McMurtry (2011)
Bryce Taylor (2018)
 
About the Order of Canada
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada, one of our country's highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and have taken to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM ("They desire a better country"). Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.

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