A celebration in honour of two distinguished local scientists took place in Sudbury Tuesday night.

Science North recognized Dr. E. Douglas Hallman and Dr. Amadeo Parissenti as honorary life members.

Organizers say both are community leaders who have contributed a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the fields of science.

 “The honorary life member program really recognizes and celebrates a great scientist, but great scientists who engage in a great relationship with Science North. We're fortunate now to have recognized now fifty individuals who have helped Science North become better at communicating science.” said Science North CEO Guy Labine.

“I was very surprised and also surprisingly emotional, in the sense that it’s really nice to be recognized by the community for the work that you do both with Science North and as an advocate for patients and for training future cancer researchers.” said Parissenti.

“It was very unexpected. I’ve worked with Science North for many years and also with the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory and the successor SNOLAB. So, I’ve really been busy with those activities, but never expected an honorary life membership.” said Hallman.

Organizers say that proceeds from the event will be shared between Science North and the Northern Cancer Foundation.