Honourable senators, I rise today to pay tribute to a treasured member of our Senate community and a remarkable leader in the Office of the Usher of the Black Rod, Manon Champagne, as she prepares to retire from the Senate of Canada on July 17.

Manon has dedicated her career to the art and discipline of event management, protocol and state ceremony. From the halls of Parliament to international summits, she has served with grace, discretion and unwavering professionalism.

Since joining the Office of the Usher of the Black Rod in August 2017, Manon has been at the heart of some of our country’s most significant ceremonial moments.

Under the guidance of our Usher of the Black Rod, she quickly became a key figure in the planning and execution of the installations of Canada’s twenty-ninth and thirtieth Governors General and four Speeches from the Throne, including the recent historic address delivered by His Majesty King Charles III.

Beyond these national milestones, Manon has been a guiding force behind countless events, large and small. Her expertise was especially evident during the transition to the Senate of Canada Building and in adapting Senate ceremonies to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What has always set Manon apart is not only her depth of knowledge but the integrity, humility and excellence she brings to everything she does. Her attention to detail is meticulous, her sense of protocol is unparalleled, and her ability to make even the most complex moments feel seamless has been a gift to us all.

Colleagues and staff alike have come to rely on her steady presence and quiet leadership. Nobody knows that better than the Usher of the Black Rod, who shared these words in tribute:

Manon has been a constant and reassuring presence in the Black Rod’s Office, playing a vital role in maintaining continuity through years of change. I still remember the day we met shortly before I recruited her for the Senate. Little did we both know the incredible adventure that would lie ahead.

While I will miss her dearly and her absence will be deeply felt, I celebrate her contributions and wish her the very best in a very well-deserved retirement.

Manon, you leave behind a wealth of institutional memory, a deep well of goodwill and very big shoes to fill. You have touched those around you with your kindness, strength and quiet devotion to this place. Congratulations on a truly exceptional career.