KUGLUKTUK/COPPERMINE - When Beverly Anablak went to Kugluktuk High School on May 26 to see the Governor General, not even her mother knew she was about to receive one of the most prestigious academic awards in Canada -- the Governor General's Academic Medal.

"It was kind of funny because how do you tell someone's family to make sure they're there without really telling them why," said principal Gary Kennedy who was in charge of ensuring Anablak's family was present at the ceremony while keeping the award a surprise.

Beverly Anablak stands with her father, mother, younger brother and Michaelle Jean after being presented with the Governor General's Academic Medal on May 26. From left, Ernie Anablak, Beverly Anablak, Jorgen Anablak, Helen Himiak and Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean. - photo courtesy of Beverly Anablak

"I talked to her mom and I said the Governor General is coming and I mentioned she would speak to the grads and maybe speak to a couple of them and I said 'I suggest you come with your camera and your whole family.'"

Anablak's mother, Helen Himiak, said she suspected something, but had no idea the Governor General would be presenting her daughter with an award.

"All Gary said was 'we need your whole family there,'" she said. "I wasn't expecting that big of an award so I was surprised and shocked and very emotional."

Anablak said, out of everyone, she was definitely the most shocked.

"I had no idea I was getting this award," she said.

Kennedy said he must have done a good job keeping his secret because when the time came for Anablak to receive her award, she was definitely stunned.

"I was standing right by her and she was taking pictures. It wasn’t like she was prepared to go up, so I would say she was genuinely surprised."

He said it was Anablak's dedication to her schoolwork that won her the award.

"I don’t think the academics necessarily came easy to her, but she was someone that was dedicated, always there, always tried her best, always listening, willing to help out in class," he said. "I think that Beverly is someone who struggled when it came to school, but her perseverance, hard work and that whole package that makes her so special is what got her through."

Helen said the whole family is very proud of Anablak's achievement.

"We're so proud of her and we love her so much," she said.

Kennedy said though she is a quiet girl, Anablak was beaming with pride when she got her award.

"She's not that chatty, but her smile said it all that day," he said.