Mr. Papineau came to École Polytechnique in June 2002, with many years of experience in university management already. An exceptional manager, Mr. Papineau previously worked at Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières and École de technologie supérieure. The latter experienced remarkable growth and acquired the status of an engineering school as a result of his efforts. Mr. Papineau has also contributed greatly to promoting engineering through his leadership in the field of engineer training and his support of several organizations, including the Canadian and Québec councils of engineering deans, the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board and several government advisory committees.

Two renowned Polytechnique graduates will also receive medals from the Ordre national. Bernard Coupal, who was awarded a bachelor's degree (1959) and a master's degree (1962) from École Polytechnique, and is a former professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, recipient of a Polytechnique Honoris Causa Doctorate, and President of Gestion T2C2/Bio Inc., will be appointed an Officer of the Ordre national. Michèle Thibodeau-DeGuire, the first woman to graduate in Civil Engineering from École Polytechnique (1963) and now President and Chief Executive Officer of Centraide of Greater Montréal, will be made a Knight of the Ordre national.

For 20 years, the Ordre national du Québec has represented the highest distinction conferred by the Province of Québec. Through these awards, the government highlights the accomplishments and excellence of Québec's most renowned citizens.

Our sincere congratulations!