The W.W. Hutchison Medal is named after Dr. William W. Hutchison in recognition of his many contributions to the Geological Association of Canada

Geological Association of Canada

The Geological Association of Canada promotes and develops the geological sciences in Canada. The organization holds conferences, meetings and exhibitions for the discussion of geological problems and the exchange of views in matters related to geology...

 and to Canadian and international geoscience

Geology

Geology is the science comprising the study of solid Earth, the rocks of which it is composed, and the processes by which it evolves. Geology gives insight into the history of the Earth, as it provides the primary evidence for plate tectonics, the evolutionary history of life, and past climates...

. The medal is awarded to a young individual for recent exceptional advances in Canadian earth science research. Prior to 2004 the award was called the Past-Presidents' Medal.