About

The Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) is pleased to recognize Mr. Stephen Barber, a long-time community representative at the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, as this year’s recipient of the Gilles Demers Award for Excellence in Animal Care.

Since 2016, Mr. Barber has been a tireless advocate for ethical animal care and use, bringing thoughtful insight, unwavering commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility to his role. As a retired engineer and experienced manager, he has applied his sharp analytical skills to his volunteer work, ensuring that research is conducted with the highest ethical standards while maintaining respect and diplomacy in all interactions.

Mr. Barber has devoted hundreds of volunteer hours each year to policy development, CCAC program reviews, and facility oversight, actively participating in CCAC visits and providing invaluable support to fellow committee members. His dedication, problem-solving skills, and unfaltering focus on the ethical care of animals in science have made a lasting impact on both institutions and the broader research community.

A true champion of ethical research, Mr. Barber balances the imperative of scientific progress with the need for rigorous animal protection. His ability to ask the right questions, provide practical solutions, and foster collaboration has set a gold standard for community representatives in animal care oversight. Please join us in thanking Mr. Barber for his remarkable dedication and service.