Val-Morin, June 5, 2026 – It is with immense pride that Edphy International announces that its founder, Mr. Yvan Dubois, has been named a Knight of the National Order of Quebec, the highest honorary distinction awarded by the Government of Quebec.
This distinction recognizes a lifetime dedicated to the advancement of sport, education, outdoor recreation, and Quebec’s youth. A physical educator, administrator, and visionary builder, Mr. Dubois has left a lasting mark on several generations through his commitment to youth development and the promotion of active living.
As the founder of the Edphy Physical Education and Nature Center in 1965, he established the first private coeducational outdoor education center in Quebec’s history. Over the decades, his work has helped shape the landscape of sport, outdoor recreation, and leisure in Quebec while inspiring hundreds of thousands of young people, families, and professionals.
His influence has extended far beyond Edphy. Mr. Dubois played a leading role in several landmark projects that have shaped Quebec’s history, most notably as Mayor and General Manager of the Olympic Village for the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, one of the most significant sporting events in Canadian history.
This appointment carries special significance as it comes at the conclusion of Edphy’s 60th anniversary celebrations and on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Montreal Olympic Games. It recognizes the exceptional contribution of a man whose achievements have left a lasting legacy in the fields of sport, education, and youth development.
“ This distinction is a thoroughly deserved recognition for a man who has devoted his life to transforming ideas into meaningful projects for Quebec. Behind Edphy and the many initiatives he has launched over the decades lies not only a vision, but also an exceptional ability to bring people together around ambitious goals, coupled with extraordinary perseverance. For our team, our former employees, our campers, and all those whose lives have been touched by his work, this appointment is an immense source of pride. ”
— Marilyse Richard-Robert, President of Edphy International
While this distinction is awarded to Mr. Dubois, it also serves as a reminder of the remarkable scope of everything he has built. Since 1965, thousands of campers, employees, coordinators, volunteers, partners, and friends have contributed to bringing this vision to life and passing on, from one generation to the next, the experiences and values that are at the heart of Edphy.
It is in this same spirit that the team responsible for submitting this nomination came together. Our sincerest thanks go to everyone who contributed to the preparation of the application, as well as to Andrée-Ann Déry, Charles-Philippe Thibault and Julien Nepveu-Villeneuve of TACT Conseil, whose guidance and support were invaluable throughout the process.
Congratulations once again to Mr. Dubois. This appointment recognizes an exceptional journey and a legacy that continues to inspire, unite, and shine—today and for generations to come.
Source : https://www.ordre-national.gouv.qc.ca/actualites/nouvelles/2026/2026-06-05.asp
