A healthcare leader in British Columbia has been honoured for his efforts in improving regional medical services. James Hanson, a vice president at Island Health, received the 2026 Community Changemaker Award from Royal Roads University on April 16, 2026.
Hanson, who graduated from the university with an MBA in 2015, was recognized for his work in shaping healthcare delivery across Vancouver Island. In his current role as Vice President of Community Clinical Operations and Support Programs, he oversees a variety of services, including primary care, mental health, substance use programs, and long-term care for the organization, which employs approximately 7,059 staff.
A key focus of his recent work involved collaborating with local government, Indigenous Nations, community members, and families. This partnership helped build support for a new model of long-term care focused on a dementia village concept, aimed at providing more innovative care options for seniors in the region.
Hanson’s path to a career in health leadership began after a change in direction. While working as a corrections officer earlier in his career, he picked up shifts as a protection services officer in a hospital, which introduced him to the healthcare field and inspired him to pursue his current path. He has worked with Island Health for over two decades.
The award will be formally celebrated during the university’s Alumni Weekend, taking place May 1-2, 2026. The event will feature a keynote address by Nobel Peace Prize nominee Sheila Watt-Cloutier.
