Lieutenant Governor’s Award for
Excellence in Aging
The Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Aging was established in 2012 by the then-Lieutenant Governor, Hon. Graydon Nicholas, to acknowledge and honour those who recognize the value and contribution of older adults in our communities. The award recognizes New Brunswick citizens, organizations, and communities that have had a unique and positive impact on the way people age in New Brunswick.
New Brunswick has thousands of engaged citizens, professionals, activists, and organizations who work diligently every day to support the aging experience. The passion demonstrated by both individuals and groups has the power to make significant impacts in communities across our province.
The Honourable Louise Imbeault, Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, presented the awards on May 13th, 2026, at the New Brunswick Association of Nursing Homes Annual General Meeting and Conference.
2026 Excellence in Aging Individual Award: Ken McGeorge
Ken McGeorge has dedicated his career to improving the lives of older adults and strengthening health care in New Brunswick. A respected health care leader and passionate advocate for aging and long term care, his contributions have shaped organizations, influenced public policy, and advanced support for older adults across the province.
As Chief Executive Officer of York Care Centre and the York Care Foundation, Ken led the organization through significant culture change and facility redevelopment, helping position York Care Centre as a Centre of Excellence in Aging. His leadership reflected a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and resident centred care that continues to influence the organization today.
In his retirement, Ken served as Interim Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick, a role he describes as one of the most rewarding of his career, bringing energy, expertise, and compassion to the organization and the people it serves.
Ken later became Co Chair of the New Brunswick Council on Aging alongside Dr. Suzanne Dupuis Blanchard, where he advocated for meaningful action to address the needs of older adults, including dementia care and support services. His advocacy extended to Ottawa, where he appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs to champion a national dementia strategy. Earlier this year, the Government of New Brunswick announced a funded three year provincial dementia strategy, including $1 million for the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick to support its implementation.
Ken continues to support the long term care sector through his work with the New Brunswick Special Care Home Association, advocating for sustainable investments that strengthen care for older adults. His leadership and lifelong commitment make him a deserving recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Aging Award.
2026 Excellence in Aging Group Award: The Association francophone des aînées et aînés du Nouveau-Brunswick
The Association francophone des aînées et aînés du Nouveau Brunswick has been a trusted advocate for francophone seniors for decades. As a nonprofit organization representing thousands of members across the province, AFANB is dedicated to advancing the well being, personal fulfillment, and rights of New Brunswickers aged 50 and over. Through its leadership and advocacy, the organization has become an influential voice for older adults across New Brunswick.
AFANB’s contributions span research, advocacy, and community engagement. Through its longstanding partnership with the Centre for Aging Studies, the association has helped ensure the lived experiences of francophone seniors are reflected in aging research. Most recently, this work has focused on family caregiving, recognizing that many caregivers are themselves older adults who require support and resources.
The organization was also instrumental in introducing the concept of Age Friendly Municipalities to New Brunswick and continues to work alongside communities across the province to put those principles into practice.
In 2025, AFANB hosted the landmark États généraux sur le vieillissement en français, or General Assembly on Aging in French. Two years in the making, the three day event brought together 250 participants from across francophone Canada for meaningful discussions and collaborative action focused on the future of aging. The event concluded with a proclamation calling on governments and communities to respond to the growing needs of an aging francophone population.
What makes AFANB truly exceptional is its unwavering commitment to francophone seniors. While leadership may evolve over time, its mission remains unchanged. Through advocacy, collaboration, and community leadership, AFANB continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults throughout New Brunswick, making it a deserving recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Aging Award.