The Greater Toronto Hockey League extends a proud congratulations to Barry Harte, President of the City of Vaughan Hockey Association (CVHA), on receiving the Order of Vaughan. The Order of Vaughan is the highest civic honour the City of Vaughan may bestow on individuals who exemplify extraordinary citizenship and better the community.

Harte received the honour during the 2024 Order of Vaughan Investiture Ceremony at Vaughan City Hall on November 13. Mayor of Vaughan Steven Del Duca presided over the ceremony.

Barry Harte is a longtime Vaughan resident, advocate, and prominent figure in the athletes community. With over 30 years of community service, his leadership as President of and Coach with the City of Vaughan Hockey Association has inspired and nurtured talent that has achieved global recognition, including Stanley Cup winner Andrew Cogliano, who began his career under Barry’s mentorship.

In his professional life, Barry is a dedicated public servant, working across communities in the Greater Toronto Area. Driven by a commitment to supporting youth and vulnerable sectors, Barry co-founded and launched the Vaughan Muslim Hockey Program. His mission is to break down barriers and provide opportunities for children and youth to participate in and develop through sport, and demonstrated this again as a community lead and ambassador for the City of Vaughan at the Rogers Hometown Hockey Event.

Barry’s dedication has been recognized with multiple honours, including the GTHL’s George Chamandy Memorial Award and Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee Pin, in recognition of his 30 years of service to the Vaughan community. Beloved by thousands of hockey players and community members, Barry’s contributions continue to elevate Vaughan’s presence in the hockey world.

The Order of Vaughan was created to pay tribute to individuals who have made a meaningful impact on Vaughan’s civic life and dedicated their time and talent to the city’s ongoing success. It recognizes leaders within the following categories: arts and entertainment, media and communications, athletics, health and wellness, business, philanthropy, public service, education, science and technology, not-for-profit, equity and diversity, accessibility, environment, and spirituality. To date, 63 people have been invested in the Order of Vaughan.

“This year, we are appointing eight remarkable and dedicated community leaders to the Order of Vaughan. This prestige award is not just an accolade — it is the City’s highest distinction, reserved for those whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our community. It represents a legacy of excellence, leadership, and service that will resonate for generations to come,” Mayor Steven Del Duca said. “Our honourees come from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of unique skills and perspectives. Each recipient has exemplified what it means to serve with heart and purpose in order to make our city a better place to work and live. Their collective efforts have not only addressed immediate needs but have also laid the groundwork for a resilient and thriving Vaughan. I wish to extend my deepest appreciation to this year’s incredible honourees for their commitment to our community and for helping us build a brighter tomorrow.”

For more information, visit Vaughan.ca.