became its chair and joined the society on a full-time basis when he completed graduate school. It was at that time that Dr. Birch began work on his brain–computer interface (BCI) project. He chose to research the use of Electroencephalography (EEG) signals from the brain because he felt it would be the most direct type of signal and would be the best form of control for someone with a severe disability. Recent achievements In 1994, Dr. Birch became the executive director of the Neil Squire Society. Under his watch, the Society continues to empower Canadians with physical disabilities using technology, knowledge, and passion. He is also currently an adjunct professor at both the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department of the University of British Columbia, and at the Gerontology Department of Simon Fraser University. Dr. Birch was inducted into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame in 1998 by the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons for extraordinary contributions to enriching the quality of life for people with disabilities. He was also awarded the British Columbia Paraplegic Association's Leadership Award. The University of British Columbia Alumni Association honored Dr. Birch with a Global Citizen Award in 2009. The award recognizes UBC graduates who have made a significant contribution to the betterment of the global community through one or more of the following: research initiatives, teaching, social, cultural or artistic innovation, healthcare, economic development, human rights and environmental protection. On 23 October 2008, Dr. Birch was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, Canada's highest civilian honor for lifetime achievement, for his work with the Neil Squire Society. Governor General Michaëlle Jean invested him into the Order on April 7, 2010, at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. In 2012, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. In 2016, he was awarded the Dean's Medal of Distinction from the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Applied Science. On 14–16 June 2016, Dr. Birch spoke and co-chaired a roundtable at the 9th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In 2017, Dr. Birch was appointed to the Order of British Columbia, the highest form of recognition by the Government of British Columbia. Professional contributions Founding past president Neil Squire Society (1984–1987) Chair Minister's National Advisory Committee for Industry Canada on Assistive Devices (1996–2010) Council of Canadians with Disabilities Sub-Committee on Access to