Doctor of Letters, honoris causa
Carlota Lee is an athlete, mother, event organizer and community supporter. Persistent, organized, and never one to do anything half-measure, Carlota is an athletic ambassador, community leader and health research advocate.
As chair of the Odlum Brown Vancouver Open, Carlota oversees one of North America’s most accomplished and skilled tennis tournament teams, and has earned recognition from sponsors, players and fans. For over a decade, her management of the Pro-Am fundraiser, players’ social and the North Shore billeting program has been integral to the success of the Odlum Brown Vancouver Open.
A tireless ambassador for tennis, Carlota’s experience as a former chartered accountant, strong business and community relationships, ability to communicate in Spanish, French, Italian and Cantonese, and her first-hand experience with the world’s greatest professional tournaments ensures the VanOpen is one of the most respected and enjoyed tournaments.
Carlota is also an avid marathon runner—an experience that led to her recognizing a significant problem when she began losing her balance during training. Carlota was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019 and has since shifted her community involvement to include advocacy and fundraising for Parkinson’s research, supporting others while fighting her own battle with the disease.
As co-chair with Derek Lee of the capital campaign for the Centre for Childhood Studies at Capilano University, Carlota was also instrumental in building a donor community committed to strengthening society through exceptional, accessible childcare and early childhood education.