Honorary Degree Recipients

Zack Bhatia

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Zack Bhatia is a prominent real estate developer, hotelier and philanthropist with a deep commitment to education and community development. As the founder and president of Chelsea Properties Ltd., Zack has played a pivotal role in shaping British Columbia's hospitality and real estate landscape.

His career spans over four decades, including leadership roles in Mayfair Properties Ltd., where he helped oversee a portfolio of hotels and residential properties, including the Holiday Inn North Vancouver, which he developed and has operated since 1998.

Beyond his business success, Zack is a dedicated advocate for higher education. He served on Capilano University's Board of Governors from 2013–2015, contributing his leadership and expertise to the institution's growth.

His passion for education led him to generously support CapU's new Fulmer Family Centre for Childhood Studies, helping to create a cutting-edge facility for early childhood education. His ties to the University are also personal – his daughter, Farah Bhatia, is a proud CapU alumna, having earned an Associate of Arts degree.

Recognized for his corporate leadership and philanthropy, Zack is a recipient of the Queen Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions to the community.

His dedication to education, hospitality, and real estate continues to shape the future of British Columbia, reinforcing his legacy as both a business leader and a passionate supporter of lifelong learning.

Ken Cretney

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Ken Cretney is a recognized leader in the hospitality and tourism industry, with nearly 40 years of award-winning experience. He joined the Vancouver Convention Centre as general manager in 2008, and in 2013 was named chief operating officer of B.C. Pavilion Corporation (PavCo). In 2014, he was appointed president and CEO of PavCo, where he continues to share his unwavering commitment to excellence in B.C.'s event and tourism sector.

Prior to his tenure at PavCo, Ken served as general manager of Vancouver's Marriott Pinnacle Hotel. Under his leadership, the hotel received numerous awards, including being named one of British Columbia's top employers for three consecutive years.

In an earlier role, he oversaw the successful conversion of the Delta Whistler Resort into the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Before moving to Whistler, Ken managed the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, Alberta, establishing it as one of North America's top properties.

Appreciating the importance of mentoring tomorrow's industry leaders, Ken remains a dedicated advocate for hospitality education. He presently serves as board chair of the Vancouver Community College Foundation, and recently completed his term on the Program Advisory Committee for Hospitality. For over 20 years, Ken has been actively involved with the Selkirk College Hospitality Advisory Committee.

Ken is past chair of Destination Vancouver, having served on its board for over a decade. He has played a key leadership role in PavCo's partnership with Vancouver Sport Hosting, bringing world-class sporting events to B.C., including the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, Vancouver Rugby Sevens and the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025.

Through his leadership and commitment to hospitality, Ken continues to shape the future of tourism and events in British Columbia.

Alison Lawton

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Alison Lawton is a visionary entrepreneur, investor and social impact leader with a strong commitment to innovation. She founded Mindset Venture Group in 1997, and has built a track record of identifying and scaling successful businesses in technology, consumer packaged goods and real estate.

As one of three founding partners of ideaPARK – Canada's first technology business incubator, which went public on the TSX in 2000 – Alison played a key role in shaping the early tech landscape. Her investment portfolio continues to span high-growth sectors, with a focus on growing early-stage companies.

Beyond her success in business, Alison founded the Mindset Social Innovation Foundation in 2006 to tackle global health challenges and scale social enterprises. She has collaborated with leading organizations, including The Clinton Foundation, Dispensary of Hope and UNICEF Canada to drive meaningful change.

Alison is deeply invested in higher education and the power of storytelling. She produced the award-winning documentary Uganda Rising and established the international reporting program at the University of British Columbia, which gives graduate journalism students the opportunity to travel for firsthand field experience and investigate underreported global issues.

As a part of this program, together they produced the film Ghana: Digital Dumping Ground, which won an Emmy in 2010 for outstanding investigative journalism in a news magazine.

As an early investor in impact-driven financial models, Alison backed the Acumen Fund, one of the first social investment venture funds in the U.S. She also co-launched the MaRS Catalyst Fund with Richard Branson and Virgin Unite and served on the board of the Heart and Stroke Foundations Community Hypertension Prevention Initiative, Canada's first health-related social impact bond.

Today, she works with the World Refugee Migration Council on the Anti-Corruption Task Force and has written a paper advocating for the allocation of seized Russian assets to fund reparations for the unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine.

Through her leadership in business, philanthropy and higher education, Alison continues to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Elder Martina Pierre (Saw̓t)

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Elder Martina Pierre (Saw̓t), a highly respected member of the Lil'wat Nation, is a trailblazer in the fields of Indigenous education, language revitalization and community advocacy.

As a residential school survivor, Elder Martina has transformed her lived experiences into a lifelong dedication to reconciliation, empowerment and cultural preservation.

Holding a Master of Education from the University of British Columbia, Elder Martina has devoted her career to ensure the survival and resurgence of her people's language and traditions.

She played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Lil'wat community school in the 1970s and later became the Language and Culture Advisor for Skel7aqsten Skel7antsut, an inherent rights organization in the Lil'wat Nation.

Elder Martina's work has been instrumental in fostering intergenerational teaching practices, bridging Indigenous and Western knowledge systems and championing education as a pathway for community growth.

Her efforts have extended into the academic sphere, where she has collaborated with Capilano University to develop and lead the Lil'wat Languages program. This program has strengthened the ties between CapU and the Lil'wat Nation, and served as a model for Indigenous language preservation within post-secondary education.

Alongside her work in education, Elder Martina authored the Women's Warrior Song, which she composed after receiving a message from a woman warrior during a sacred sweat lodge ceremony.

The song has become a powerful anthem of resilience and healing that has become a central feature of marches and gatherings for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2+) movement across Canada.

Garth Richardson

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Born into music, Garth Richardson was raised in the legendary Nimbus 9 studio in Toronto, where his father, Jack Richardson, C.M. (Order of Canada) – a pioneer of the Canadian music industry – helped shape his path.

By 15, Garth was already working in the studio and touring as a live sound engineer, immersed in every facet of the craft. He sharpened his skills at Phase One Studios in Toronto and was mentored under industry icons Bob Ezrin who produced Pink Floyd's The Wall, and Brian Christian who engineered the last Elvis Presley record.

Garth's first album credit came as second engineer on Bob Seger's Night Moves, marking the start of a storied career. Over the years, Garth has collaborated with some of music's biggest names, including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ozzy Osbourne, Kiss, Taylor Swift, Kensington and Alice Cooper.

Garth produced and engineered Rage Against the Machine's self-titled debut album – earning a Grammy nomination and cementing his reputation as a fearless sonic architect. The album's anthem "Killing in the Name" became a cultural flashpoint, later topping the UK Christmas charts and has over one-billion streams.

He co-produced K'Naan's Wavin' Flag – winner of the 2011 Juno Award for Single of the Year – and produced Head of the Herd's By This Time Tomorrow. His work has earned multiple Juno nominations, including for the Jack Richardson Producer of the Year Award, named in honour of his father.

Committed to the next generation of creators, Garth co-founded Vancouver's Nimbus School of Recording Arts with Bob Ezrin. He is also the founder of The Farm Studios, where he continues to craft powerful recordings and mentor emerging talent. Whether behind the console or building community, Garth Richardson remains a driving force in shaping the sound – and future — of music.

Alex Cuba

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Singer-songwriter

Living in Smithers, B.C. with his wife and three kids, Alex Cuba, a Cuban-Canadian Grammy/Latin Grammy and Juno-winning singer-songwriter/producer embodies a musical vision unbounded by tradition.

Immersed in music from an early age through his father, Alex pursued studies in electric and upright bass, and has toured and recorded globally. His sound is a fusion of traditional and global influences, crafting emotive melodies and lyrics that combine folk, rock, pop, and funk in Spanish and English.

As a highly respected international artist, Alex garnered numerous awards and accolades from the music industry, particularly with the release of Mendó (2021). His collaborations span a wide spectrum, from Ron Sexsmith and Nelly Furtado to Latin American artists like Leonel Garcia and Lila Downs.

Among his awards are two Junos, a BMI award, and four Latin Grammys, including Best New Artist. With his vibrant performances with Grammy winner Lila Downs and world-renowned flamenco artist Antonio Carmona, Alex's eighth studio album Mendó earned him his first Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album in 2022, marking a tremendous accomplishment for an independent artist.

Alex Cuba shares a long history with CapU. In 2001, the BlueShore at CapU presented his Vancouver debut as a solo artist as part of its inaugural North Shore Jazz Series in partnership with the Vancouver International Jazz Festival. It is with immense pride that the University has witnessed Alex's evolution as an artist, with all his recognition over the years.

Alex Cuba's musical journey reflects an ongoing exploration of Cuban roots intertwined with global influences, a testament to his boundless creativity and dedication to crafting fresh, soulful compositions.

Debra Doucette

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

President & CEO, Odlum Brown Limited

Debra Doucette, OBC, is president and CEO of Odlum Brown, an independent, full-service investment firm that has been helping clients achieve their financial goals for over 100 years.

With an accomplished career in the investment industry spanning over 35 years, Debra leads with objective and strategic insight. She joined Odlum Brown in 1991. Prior to becoming president and CEO in 2007, she was the chief operating officer for seven years.

Debra is lauded for her vision, passion and dedication as a leader in the business community. Currently, she is a board member of alumni UBC (past chair), Providence Health Care, Drug Free Kids Canada and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO). Debra also served as the industry director and chair of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

Debra has received many accolades for her business and community leadership over the years. As a strong supporter of Odlum Brown's sponsorship and charitable giving programs, she was honoured with the Order of British Columbia in 2021 and given the Joseph and Rosalie Segal United Way Community Vision Award in 2016 for her work in the community.

In 2016, Debra received the BC CEO Award from Business in Vancouver and Canada's Most Admired CEOTM in 2017. After being recognized in the top 100 for three consecutive years, Debra was also inducted into Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Hall of Fame by the Women's Executive Network.

Raymond Heung

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

President, Vanac Development Corp.; Co-founder and Trustee, Y.P. Heung Foundation

Raymond Heung, born in Hong Kong, ventured to Canada in 1966 for higher education, earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Ottawa. He pursued further studies at the University of British Columbia, obtaining an MA in economics and M.Sc. in urban land economics by the early 1970s.

Afterwards, Raymond continued in his father's footsteps in Hong Kong and began working in real estate in Vancouver at Daon Development Corp. in the late 1970s. He later founded Vanac Development Corp. in 1982 and has since served as its president.

Additionally, from 1998 to 2005, he held the position of president and CEO at Madison Pacific Properties Inc., a Vancouver-based public commercial real estate firm. He was also a member of the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia.

Raymond, alongside his wife Terry Heung, serves as a trustee of the Y. P. Heung Foundation, established in 2012 to honour his father and contribute to health, education and arts and culture initiatives.

As an art collector himself, Raymond is passionate about giving back to the community through awarding arts grants and establishing post-secondary awards to encourage and support students with tuition fees.

Inspired by his father's values, the legacy of the Y.P. Heung Foundation reflects his father's belief in hard work, honesty, honour and humility; and it is these four principles that underscore Raymond's enduring success in commercial real estate spanning over four decades.

Elder Latash - Maurice Nahanee

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Elder, Capilano University Elders' Circle

Elder Latash - Maurice Nahanee of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation epitomizes a life dedicated to cultural preservation, education and reconciliation.

As a CapU alum with a bachelor's in English literature (SFU), Elder Latash has had a multifaceted career. He spent a decade as a journalist before becoming the CEO of the Native Communications Society of BC.

His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish All Write Productions, a PR company, and Latash Native Arts, a company selling Indigenous art and providing cross-cultural workshops.

Elder Latash's true passion lies in nurturing young minds. For over 25 years, he has been actively involved in education, working with school districts across Metro Vancouver to impart Indigenous teachings and promote reconciliation. In 2016, he retired as a First Nations support worker in the North Vancouver School District.

Since 2012, Elder Latash has been an integral part of CapU's Elders' Circle, where he mentors Indigenous students and participates in many aspects of campus life. He was pivotal in guiding Chén̓chenstway, a living document outlining CapU's journey of reconciliACTION and learning.

As a world-renowned traditional artist and cultural ambassador, Elder Latash showcases Skwxwú7mesh culture through wood sculpture, painting, music and storytelling. Over the years, he has performed with the Chinook Songcatchers, a cultural group created with his wife and daughters.

His dedication to cultural authenticity and reconciliation is evident in his workshops and commissioned artworks, which continue to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.

Lisa Wolverton

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Co-Owner, Pacific Investment Corporation; President, Forward Global Canada & Wolverton Family Foundation

Lisa Wolverton is one of three owners of Pacific Investment Corporation, a family-owned real estate holdings and investment firm, holding multiple governance roles within the company. She also leads the family's private foundation, the Wolverton Foundation, headquartered in Vancouver.

The foundation is dedicated to elevating exposure to the arts and facilitating artistic programs for children who would otherwise be excluded from these opportunities. Notably, it has housed The Sarah McLachlan School of Music, its primary grantee partner, for over a decade.

Beyond her family business, Lisa serves as the president of Forward Global Canada, overseeing Canadian membership development for its parent organization, Forward Global. This global community of 400 philanthropic funders is dedicated to addressing today's challenges through education, community engagement and actionable initiatives.

Lisa also contributes to various boards and councils. She sits on the board of directors for The Fuller Project, a global newsroom focused on catalyzing positive change for women.

She was a member of the Council of Advocates for the Freedom Fund, striving to eradicate slavery and exploitation worldwide, and was involved with the President's Council of the International Crisis Group.

A passionate advocate for youth, Lisa served on the board of directors of UNICEF Canada, Family Services of the North Shore, and mentored for the Loran Scholarship Foundation of Canada. With roots on the North Shore, Lisa is an admired philanthropist and respected leader where CapU's campuses are located.

Neil Chrystal

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Neil Chrystal has devoted his career to serving the business community in Metro Vancouver. Neil began his career with Polygon Homes in 1987, after completing his degree in commerce and urban land economics at the University of British Columbia.

He worked his way up over the past 35 years to become president in 2003. Through his leadership, Neil has built one of the top ranked companies as recognized by BC Business Magazine. He was also recently named one of the 500 most influential business leaders in the province.

Having built over 33,000 homes, Polygon Homes is one the leading homebuilders in B.C. and a significant leader in philanthropy within the construction industry. They have made notable contributions to the former Presentation House Gallery, now named the Polygon Gallery after their gift of $2 million to support its redevelopment.

The company contributes thousands of dollars annually to health, arts and community-focused organizations in the region. They also made a recent contribution of $100,000 to support CapU's Centre for Childhood Studies.

Outside his work with Polygon Homes, Neil contributes his time to multiple community organizations, providing his leadership and business governance expertise.

He currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees at the Audain Art Museum, vice-chair of the Board of the Urban Development Institute and member of the board with the Business Council of Canada. Additionally, he and wife Andrea have been long-time financial supporters of deserving causes across the arts, health-care and community services.

Hamid Eshghi

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Born in Iran, Hamid Eshghi has an immense appreciation for his life in Canada. Having lived through the 1979 Iranian revolution and Iran-Iraq war, Hamid's experiences and memories have enabled him to embrace and interact with people from various cultural and economic circumstances. His passionate interest in people and communities fuels his desire to give back and engage with organizations he supports.

Through Hamid's leadership as president of the Djavad Mowafaghian Foundation for the past 20 years, the foundation has made a positive impact on countless organizations and residents across the North Shore, Metro Vancouver and Canada.

To date, the foundation has contributed in excess of $65 million to provide support for recent immigrants, education, international outreach, children's services, the performing arts and health-care research and innovation.

Hamid's generosity of spirit and commitment to philanthropy also extends to the foundation's work with children and its support of youth programs and education – most notably, committing over $16 million to the BC Children's Hospital and $1.5 million to We Charity, among others. At CapU, a significant contribution of $500,000 by the foundation was made to the new Centre for Childhood Studies.

Outside his philanthropy work, Hamid volunteers his time on major fundraising campaigns for both the Vancouver General Hospital and UBC Hospital Foundation and the UBC and Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. With his wife, Arya, he has travelled to three different continents to build schools with Me to We.

For their work in the community, Simon Fraser University honored Hamid and the foundation with the President's Distinguished Community Leadership Award in 2022.

Paul Larocque

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Paul Larocque has demonstrated a commitment to the powerful role that arts education plays in the lives of young people, with a strong belief that our next generation will need to tap into their genuine creative expression to fully address the world's challenges and opportunities.

As president & CEO of Arts Umbrella – an internationally recognized leader in the area of arts education for young people – Paul has led the 44-year-old, non-profit organization through a period of significant growth, notably, with the opening of its new 50,000 net-square-foot centre on Granville Island.

Paul is proud of the community impact and reach of Arts Umbrella which provides high-quality arts education to more than 20,000 children and youth annually, in Metro Vancouver and beyond. Seventy-five percent of students participate at little to no cost through donor-funded community programs, bursaries and scholarships.

Before his current role, Paul held the position of associate director of the Vancouver Art Gallery for more than a decade. Throughout his career, Paul has been committed to promoting the importance of education in our society.

For several years, Paul has served as a mentor and a selection committee chair with the Loran Scholars Foundation, as well as the McCall MacBain Scholars program.

For close to 20 years, Paul has been an active member of Chor Leoni Men's Choir, an internationally recognized ensemble that is comprised of approximately 60 volunteer singers. He is also a member of the Granville Island Council.

Bob McGill

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Bob has enjoyed a long career in Canada's financial services industry. He has spent time in banking, 18 years in stock brokerage and management at Dominion Securities Inc., and finally, 18 years in investment management and counselling at Phillips, Hager & North Investment Management Ltd. where he led the development of its private client division.

Long-time North Shore residents, Bob and his wife Brenda were connected to CapU when their son, Rob, enrolled in a two-year Studio Arts program. While Rob later graduated from Dalhousie University's School of Architecture, the McGills credit CapU's smaller class sizes and quality instructors for laying the foundations of his academic success.

As a long-serving member of the Capilano University Foundation Board, Bob championed the CapU story and attracted the commitment of others to support the life-changing learning experiences at the University.

His many generous contributions over the years have enhanced not only programs and bursaries for students, but also the distinct educational environment at CapU. The University's new Learning Commons could not have been developed without the gift from the McGill Family Fund – a contribution that was transformative and impactful towards the revitalization of CapU's main campus.

In retirement, Bob remains involved in several charitable initiatives. His family has demonstrated generous support for education, health care and environmental initiatives that matter to the community and make the world a better place.

He is an honorary director of the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation and sits on the foundation's planned giving committee. Additionally, he oversees contributions from the McGill Family Fund and is a member of the Board of Advisors with Universal Outreach.

Ruth Simons

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Born and raised in West Vancouver, Ruth Simons spent her formative years being mentored in her family's travel insurance business. She later grew this business and eventually sold it to The Co-operators Group where she became vice-president of travel insurance and completed a successful merger with one of their largest competitors before retiring from the industry in 2007.

Since then, Ruth has immersed herself in not-for-profit work and volunteerism, becoming an elected council member with the Village of Lions Bay from 2008–2011 and convening the Howe Sound Community Forum for elected officials in the region.

For her community advocacy, the Village of Lions Bay presented Ruth with the Citizen of Distinction award in 2014 and Citizen of the Year in 2015. Most recently, MP Patrick Weiler named her as one of the region's Unsung Heroes.

In 2017, Ruth actively championed the efforts to have the Howe Sound region designated as an official UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – forever preserving the precious environment that flourishes in the region.

Following a five-year campaign and as a result of her leadership, on September 15, 2021 the Howe Sound region (Átl'ka7tsem) was internationally recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – the 19th in Canada.

As part of the celebrations, Ruth received one of the highest honours from the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) – an Esémkwu (blanketing ceremony) in recognition for her achievement.

Ruth has continued leading the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society – an organization responsible for managing this UNESCO designation.

Over the past year, Ruth has tirelessly worked to manage the new UNESCO responsibilities, including fundraising and setting up an official partnership and working group with Capilano University to support student and community research projects in the region.

Carlota Lee

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.

Anthony von Mandl

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

As a dynamic entrepreneur and leader with an uncompromised commitment to quality, Anthony von Mandl has grown a family business into a far-reaching, internationally acclaimed enterprise.

Through the Mark Anthony Group, he has made an exceptional contribution to British Columbia's economy and its people – generating a multitude of employment, mentorship and career opportunities in a range of industries, including agri-tourism, fine wine and spirits and technology.

By extension, von Mandl's support and patronage of the culinary, visual and performing arts has contributed to the reputation of the Okanagan Valley as a world-class destination of hospitality and culture. He is also the chairman of The von Mandl Family Foundation, which has generously supported a variety of community and charitable causes over the years. His philanthropy reflects a wide-range of causes and beneficiaries in the arts, education and cancer health research in Canada and the United States.

Anthony von Mandl is an Officer of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the Order of British Columbia. Both of these honours recognize his innovative contributions to the enhancement of Canada's international reputation in the wine industry.

He has been recognized with the Ellis Island International Medal of Honor and inducted in both the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame and the Canadian Marketing Hall of Fame. In 2011, he was a co-recipient of the Warren Bennis Award for Leadership Excellence.

Bedriska v. Mandl

Doctor of Fine Arts, honoris causa

Bedriska v. Mandl is a fashion designer, artist, author, community activist and impassioned advocate for youth and social causes. She is a driving force behind the von Mandl Family Foundation supporting the arts, health, youth and environment-based initiatives. The centenarian arrived in Vancouver in 1940 and celebrated her 105th birthday in April 2021.

After attending design school in Vienna and working as a fashion designer in Czechoslovakia, Bedriska v. Mandl was forced to flee her homeland in 1937, overcoming many obstacles to gain passage on the French Line's 'SS Champlain,' the last civilian ocean liner to depart France for the safety of North America before the outbreak of the Second World War.

Upon arriving at Ellis Island, she said to her husband, Martin, "Finally we are safe." Traveling across the United States by train, the couple arrived at the Canadian Border in Blaine, Washington where an immigration officer offered his hand and greeted them by saying, "Welcome to Canada," at which point Bedriska broke down in tears. Only in late 1945 did she learn that other than her brother, her entire immediate family had perished in the Holocaust.

Mrs. v. Mandl is the recipient of a number of international and local honours including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor that pays tribute to individuals who have made it their life's mission to share their knowledge, compassion and generosity.

Derek Lee

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

A proud lifelong resident of the North Shore, Derek Lee is one of British Columbia's most accomplished real estate professionals.

He is currently the president and CEO of Prospero International Realty Inc., a local brokerage and property management firm, which owns and manages a diverse portfolio of properties across B.C., including apartments, mobile home parks, seniors' residences, low-income housing and marinas.

Throughout his busy professional career, Lee has also devoted his time and talents to serving the boards of community organizations such as SUCCESS, Tennis BC, Heart and Stroke Foundation and BC Artscape. His commitment to community service comes from his upbringing, where his father and grandfather taught him that great countries and provinces start with great cities and communities.

Recognizing the important role education played in helping him realize his ambitions, Lee is committed to supporting great institutions like Capilano University to ensure his fellow British Columbians have the education and guidance they need to achieve their own dreams.

Susan Point

Doctor of Fine Arts, honoris causa

Susan Point is a renowned xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) artist and a leading influence in the emergence of contemporary Coast Salish Indigenous art.

Rooted in the rich culture and traditions of her people, her work continues to push artistic boundaries. Her paintings, sculptures, carvings, and more recent work with glass, concrete, bronze and mixed media have resulted in numerous prominent examples of public art that is instrumental in presenting xʷməθkʷəy̓əm's traditions and culture on what is now Canada's west coast.

Through symbolism and artistry, her work encourages attention, understanding and respect for the life-sustaining contributions of women in Coast Salish communities, and offers a connection point to Indigenous cultures for non-Indigenous people. While her art continues to evolve, Point's values of family and respect for our connected human spirit endure and deliver an inspiring message of truth and reconciliation.

She is highly regarded for her artistic celebrations of family, creativity, individuality and equality. Leading by example, she serves as a living inspiration to others. Her children and many grandchildren are following her footsteps and cultivating individual talents as emerging artists.

As national symbols of recognition, she has been made an Officer of the Order of Canada and a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. Susan Point is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, an Inspire Achievement Award, a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award and a B.C. Creative Achievement Award.

Sarah McLachlan

Doctor of Fine Arts, honoris causa

Sarah McLachlan is one of the most celebrated singer-songwriters in entertainment today with more than 40 million albums sold worldwide. She has received three Grammy Awards and 12 Juno Awards over her career and was recently inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

In 2014, McLachlan released her seventh studio album, Shine On, for which she received a Juno Award for Adult Contemporary Album of the Year. Shine On explores her personal journey over the previous few years of navigating love, loss and change.

McLachlan's latest release is her 2016 Christmas album Wonderland, for which she received a Juno Award for Adult Contemporary Album of the Year as well as a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Wonderland contains fresh and inspired interpretations of 13 traditional and contemporary holiday classics.

In addition to her personal artistic efforts, McLachlan founded the Lilith Fair tour, which showcased female musicians and raised more than $7 million for local and national charities. In 2002, McLachlan founded her not-for-profit organization, the Sarah McLachlan School of Music, which provides top quality music instruction at no cost, in a safe and nurturing environment, for at-risk and underserved children and youth.

From an early age, music provided McLachlan with the tools she needed to navigate the challenges she faced in her life and she recognizes how important it is for every child to have those same opportunities.

Bruce Poon Tip

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

Entrepreneur, leader, philanthropist and best-selling author Bruce Poon Tip is the founder of G Adventures, an award-winning small group adventure travel company and social enterprise.

Following a transformational backpacking trip to Asia, Tip had an idea to change the face of travel. In 1990, at the age of 22, Tip started G Adventures, a tour operator designed to bridge the divide between backpacking and mainstream travel, and to connect travellers with local people in the countries they visit.

Fast forward 29 years: G Adventures is the now the world's largest small group adventure travel company, with 28 offices worldwide. They host 200,000 travellers per year, offer more than 700 tours and travel to 100 countries – across all seven continents.

In 2003, with a vision that travel could be a force for social good and significant wealth distribution, Tip founded G Adventures' not-for-profit partner, the Planeterra Foundation. Planeterra harnesses the power of the tourism supply chain to channel travellers' dollars into underserved communities around the world.

Tip's first book, Looptail: How One Company Changed the World by Reinventing Business, was released in 2013 and became a New York Times best seller. Looptail is the first business book to be endorsed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who penned its foreword. In 2015, Tip released his second book, Do Big Small Things, a journal about life and travel that encourages readers to share their own inspirations and creativity.

In 2018, Bruce Poon Tip was honoured as one of Canada's Most Admired CEOs in the category of social entrepreneurship.

A candidate was not selected for 2018.

Rick Celebrini

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Dr. Rick Celebrini is internationally recognized as one of North America's leading sport and orthopedic physiotherapists. He is the co-founder and partner in the Fortius Institute and senior member in the leadership team behind Fortius Sport & Health.

Recently, he was also appointed director of rehabilitation for the Vancouver Canucks, where he oversees injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols.

Throughout his career he has worked with dozens of high-profile professional and Olympic athletes. He consults to organizations including the Canadian Soccer Association, Canadian Alpine Ski Team, NFL's Seattle Seahawks, NBA's Dallas Mavericks and the NHL Players' Association.

Dr. Celebrini also served as the manager of medical services and chief therapist for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and he was on the Canadian medical team for two additional Olympic games.

Dr. Celebrini studied arts and sciences at Capilano University from 1985 to 1987, where his career as an athlete took off, as well. He helped Capilano's soccer team reach third place in the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association Soccer Championship.

In 1987, he continued his studies at UBC and spent five seasons with the UBC Thunderbirds, winning four consecutive Canadian soccer championships. He also competed with the national U20 soccer team at the 1987 FIFA World Youth Championship. In 1993, he joined the Vancouver 86ers of the American Professional Soccer League for several years.

Dr. Celebrini holds a diploma in Sports Physiotherapy, a bachelor of Physical Therapy and a doctorate in Rehabilitation Sciences from the Faculty of Medicine at UBC. His research has focused on promoting children's activity, screening for injury risk factors, performance enhancement parameters in developing athletes, and investigating biomedical issues in children.

Steven Point

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

The Honourable Steven Lewis Point served as the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia from 2007 to 2012. He is a member of the Skowkale First Nation, where he served as elected chief at the age of 23. He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a law degree in 1985.

He practiced law as a partner in the firm of Point and Shirley, and then worked for the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs and in the Refugee Department of the Department of Employment and Immigration.

In 1991, he became the director of the First Nations Legal Studies program at the UBC Faculty of Law. From 1994 to 1999, he was tribal chair of the Stó:lō Nation and Grand Chief of Stó:lō Tribal Council. He was appointed a provincial court judge in 1999 based in Abbotsford, but his duties took him throughout the province. In 2005, Steven Point was appointed chief commissioner of the British Columbia Treaty Commission.

In 2007, he was named the province's 28th lieutenant governor. In that role, he took a special interest in inspiring young people towards their chosen path. He served as lieutenant governor with grace, candor and good humour. In 2014 he was re-appointed a provincial court judge, a role he continues to hold.

Steven Point has an outstanding record of service to the people of British Columbia. He advocated for First Nations people throughout his career, pressing for greater recognition of their contributions and their fuller involvement in all aspects of life in British Columbia.

He received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals and the Order of British Columbia. In 2000, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of the Fraser Valley and in 2016 received the Order of Chilliwack.

He is known for his love of music, his commitment to his community, dedication to the legal profession, dedication to land rights, and for encouraging the revival of traditional singing and dance for the Stó:lō Nation.

Jeri Krogseth

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

There is truly no greater champion for Capilano University than Jeri Krogseth, a leading philanthropist, retired staff member and well-respected educator from the North Shore, Jeri has spent a lifetime giving to her community, championing education and supporting youth athletics.

Jeri spent almost two decades as a high school teacher and counselor before moving into the role of admissions advisor and education planner with Capilano University in 1995. Jeri's involvement and leadership of the Capilano University Foundation Board spans more than 30 years, since its inception.

She has also served as Board Member of the Capilano University Alumni Association since 2009 (also a founding member).

Jeri is a tireless champion of education and youth athletics and spearheaded the creation of the Scholar Athlete and Athletic Entrance Endowment Funds that now annually support a number of student athletes – in turn helping to keep promising athletes in Canada.

Jeri also lea the creation of the Capilano University Alumni Board's inaugural bursary in appreciation of its members' positive post-secondary experiences while studying at Capilano. Jeri believes passionately in the importance of education in helping people achieve their personal and professional goals and she has tirelessly championed Capilano University as an important educational provider in our community.

Jeri attended the University of British Columbia and graduated with a BA in Psychology before taking a one year teacher training program at the same university.

Mario Hardy

Doctor of Letters, honoris causa

Mario Hardy was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) on November 1^st, 2014. He previously held the COO position from January 15t, 2014. PATA is a not-for profit membership association that acts as a catalyst for the responsible development of travel and tourism within the Asia Pacific region.

The Association, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2011, provides travel industry leadership and counsel to over 90 government, state and city tourism bodies, nearly 50 international airlines, airports and cruise lines, and many hundreds of travel industry companies across Asia Pacific and beyond.

Mario is a global leader for the tourism industry and distinguished leader of Asia Pacific tourism management and development. He is a regular speaker at major tourism events globally including Global Tourism Economic Forum, ASEAN Ministerial Conference, all major PATA Events, ITB Singapore and Berlin, UNWTO Economic Forums and other events.

Mario has close to 30 years of combined leadership, corporate development and change management experience. He began his career with People's Express Airlines in 1985, before joining Canadian Airlines in 1987 where he spent 12 years in a number of sales, marketing and operational roles, leading to his appointment in a senior management role heading the Group Sales & Charter division in 1997.

Prior to PATA, Mario worked 14 years for UBM/OAG a business with a focus on data analytics and events for the aviation sector and occupied several leadership roles in London, Beijing and Singapore.

He is also an entrepreneur and an angel investor in a variety of small business start-ups around the globe. He selects his projects and provides mentorship support to those that exercise principled approaches toward product development and operations.

Prior to his appointment as PATA CEO, Mario was Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the PATA Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to contribute to the sustainable and responsible development of travel and tourism in Asia Pacific through the protection of the environment, the conservation of culture and heritage, and support for education.

In this role, and subsequently as a Board member and PATA CEO, Mario pro-actively supported and gained funding resources for Capilano University to lead the Vietnam Community Tourism project in Sapa in partnership with Hanoi Open University.

The project has resulted in accolades including the PATA Grand Award for Education in 2014, Finalist with Wild Asia, and Honorable Mention with the United Nations Environment Program in 2015, and awards for films produced by Capilano University alumni. Mario has also advocated and participated in the Sala Bai School for underprivileged children in Cambodia along with many other socially responsible tourism initiatives throughout Asia.

Mario has a BSc from the University of Montreal, a Public Relations Certificate from L'École des Hautes Études Commerciales de Montréal and an International Trade Certificate from the O'Sullivan College of Montreal.

Lorne and Melita Segal

Lorne Richard Segal

Lorne Segal has inspired a generation of new philanthropists through his personal generosity, leadership and extraordinary kindness.

Acknowledged by community, business and philanthropy leaders across Canada for his ability to engage and motivate others, Mr. Segal, president of Kingswood Properties Ltd. and a director of Kingswood Capital Corporation, has used his business success to propel his community giving. He is a long-serving Director of the Vancouver Board of Trade and a member of the Simon Faser University Dean's External Advisory Board, Segal Graduate School of Business and is the chair of Coast Mental Health Foundation's Courage to Come Back Awards.

Mr. Segal is also the Founding Chair of Free the Children's We Day Vancouver. Serving in that capacity for the past nine years, he has been a catalyst of a social movement among youth that promotes social responsibility and global citizenship. He and his wife, Mélita, also donate their home for the benefit of numerous charities including the annual Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation Life Commitment Dinner which has raised close to $2.5 million for those living with HIV.

In 2012, Mr. Segal received the Justice Institute of British Columbia Foundation Community Leadership Award and in 2013 was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for Service. In 2014 he was invested into the Order of British Columbia – the province's highest honour.

Melita Segal

Melita Segal was born in Cairo, Egypt to Captain Marinco and Mrs. Jenny Muzina – a pilot, deep sea master and captain who worked in the Suez Canal and a professor of the French language respectively.

After spending her first 12 years in Cairo, Melita and her family moved to the south of France where they lived until she was 16. The Muzina family was then transferred to Vancouver where Melita began studies at Capilano College and completed her degree in Urban Geography at the University of British Columbia.

Melita is fluent in French, Italian and English, as are her two children Chanelle (24) and Matthew (21). Chanelle is a recent graduate of the Elliot School of International Affairs at George Washington University, Washington D.C. and Matthew is a Junior at Yale University majoring in Economics. Both children have been ambassadors of "Free the Children" since 2007 and played a significant role in bringing the inaugural "We Day" to Vancouver in 2009 – an annual gathering of 20,000 students for the purpose of celebrating the power of youth to change the world.

Melita works alongside her husband, Lorne, in all their charitable causes including the Coast Mental Health "Courage to Come Back Awards", We Day Vancouver and the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation Life Commitment Dinner.

James Shavick

One of Canada's most successful film and TV producers, Mr. Shavick began his career after graduating from first class of Concordia University's (SGWU) film program. Originally from Montreal, it was natural that his first feature would be set in Quebec. "Two Solitudes", a landmark drama about the English-French, became a Canadian classic. Since then, Mr. Shavick has produced more than 500 hours of television - over 100 feature length television movies and 10 television series.

Working for many years in California, James held numerous production positions and his series were commissioned by ABC Family Channel, NBC/PAX, Fox Family Channel, Showtime and HBO. His television productions were among the top ten performers for their networks and he retains the singular distinction of being the only Canadian producer to ever have had two number 1-rated shows in the United States.

Mr. Shavick moved his production company to Vancouver in 1993 and quickly became the largest producer west of Toronto. Over the years he has mentored and employed a multitude of young producers - many of whom now form the backbone of film and television production in Western Canada.

Mr. Shavick married former finance minister and prominent B.C. politician Joy MacPhail in 2005. He is the majority shareholder and CEO of Canadian broadcaster OUTtv, a specialty digital channel with over 1 million subscribers, and a recently launched international video subscription service.

Marc Kielburger

Marc Kielburger is an outstanding contributor to poverty alleviation and youth development around the world. He is the co-founder of Free the Children, an international charity and renowned educational partner that empowers youth to achieve their fullest potential as agents of change.

Marc is also the co-founder and co-CEO of Me to We, an innovative social enterprise that provides people with better choices for a better world. Half of Me to We's profits are donated to Free the Children and the other half is reinvested to grow the enterprise and its social mission. Each year, Marc and his brother Craig Kielburger organize Free the Children's We Day, the organizations signature domestic event. We Day advocates positive social change and is attended by school age students that can only gain access by earning a place through volunteerism.

Marc graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University completing a degree in international relations, He won a Rhodes Scholarship and went on to complete a law degree at Oxford University. Marc is the recipient of many honors. These include: the youngest person ever to be awarded the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship in 2004, the youngest to be selected as one of Canada's "Top 40 under 40", selection by the World Economic Forum as one of 250 Young Global Leaders, and in 2010 he received the Order of Canada.

Marc has a special connection to Capilano University. In the first year of the Global Stewardship program ten years ago, he agreed to partner with the program and has made presentations to students on campus. In October 2013, Capilano University was the exclusive post-secondary education partner for We Day Vancouver.

Dr. David Fung

Dr. Fung is an active member of the North Shore community where he and his wife Grace reside. He is a strong advocate of education with an exemplary record of leadership and volunteerism. His outstanding contributions to Canada were recognized in 2012 when he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal from the Governor General of Canada. Dr. Fung holds Bachelor, Master and Doctorate degrees in chemical engineering from McGill University and has also completed the senior business executive program at Queens University in Kingston.

Dr. Fung currently serves as Chairman and CEO of the ACDEG Group of Companies, a global technology integrator, with business partnerships in forest products, biomass energy, clean technologies, chemicals, electrical power cogeneration, agri-foods, marine equipment, OEM parts manufacturing and packaging wastes recycling in North America, Europe and Asia. Dr. Fung is also strategic advisor of Cycle Capital Management Inc. of Montreal, the largest clean technology venture capital fund in Canada.

Dr. Fung's relationship with Capilano University began in 1998 when he established the ACDEG International Award in order to use the interest earned annually to provide one or more bursary awards for students enrolled in the former Asia Pacific Management Program (later to become the McRae Institute of International Management). Dr. Fung was a strong supporter of the Institute and when it closed in 2007, he continued to serve as an important natural partner for the Capilano University Foundation.

Stuart McLaughlin

Industry Leader in Sustainable Tourism

Stuart McLaughlin has served as the President of Grouse Mountain Resort Limited since 1989 and is a leader in the tourism industry in British Columbia and Canada. Under Stuart's leadership, Grouse Mountain has done ground-breaking work in developing environmentally sustainable practices. They have pioneered a number of green initiatives and have welcomed environmental audits in order to continuously improve their performance.

The sustainable practice at Grouse Mountain exemplifies the values embedded in the programs offered in the School of Tourism at Capilano. Over the years the team of managers has hired many Capilano students and graduates from a broad range of programs to work at the resort, Whistler Water and other branches of the business. Stuart McLaughlin has visited Capilano on many occasions to speak with students about the industry and their careers. Stuart McLaughlin's other community involvement includes serving as a Director of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Ltd., Halton Hills Village Homes, Whistler Water Inc. and Polaris Water Ltd. He serves as a Director of the West Vancouver Foundation and sits on the Major Gifts Committee of the Lions Gate Hospital. He also serves as a Director for the Canada West Ski Areas Association.

Daphne Bramham

Columnist for the Vancouver Sun with an excellent record in social justice issues

Daphne Bramham has been a columnist at The Vancouver Sun since 2000. She won the National Newspaper Award for column writing in June 2005. Judges said she "cuts away misconceptions and misinformation on a wide-range of issues... Her clear thinking shines like a laser in searching out logical inconsistencies." She was named Commentator of the Year Award by the Jack Webster Foundation in October 2005 and was honoured by the non-profit group Beyond Borders in 2004 for a continuing series of columns on the polygamous community of Bountiful, B.C. from the non-profit group Beyond Borders.

Bramham was one of Simon Fraser University's distinguished alumni in 2003 and outstanding alumna of the year for 2004 by Luther College in Regina. In 2001, she was named Journalist of the Year for her series on farmed animals at the Animal Rights 2001 in Washington, D.C. Born in Saskatchewan, Bramham has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and German literature from the University of Regina, a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Journalism from Toronto's Ryerson University and a Master's degree in Liberal Studies from Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, B.C. Over the past few years Daphne has been a frequent speaker at Elder College in Capilano University's Continuing Studies.

Ken Haycock

Leading Library Scholar with a strong record of public service to the North Shore community

North Shore resident, Dr. Ken Haycock, is an internationally acclaimed educator, mentor, and consultant and Canada's leading educator in Library and Information Science. He has been honored by the American Library Association, the Association for Library and Information Science Education and the Canadian Library Association, among many others. Ken has served on hundreds of scholarly, professional and community-based committees and boards and made a significant contribution in the recognition of the role that libraries and librarians play in community development.

Ken is deeply connected to the North Shore as well. His community service has been varied including serving as a municipal councilor, member and the chair of the West Vancouver School Board, and public library board member. He is the current chair of the West Vancouver Arts Centre Trust (Kay Meek Centre), where he recently initiated a strategic plan for the next three years to better integrate and collaborate with other arts/culture organizations on the North Shore. When he was school board chair, Dr. Haycock actively promoted alternatives to research universities for graduates, particularly the then Capilano College as the North Shore's postsecondary institution. He has since collaborated with the Capilano University Library on several student and faculty centered initiatives.

2012 recipients

Dr. Jo-ann Archibald

Jo-ann Archibald (Q'um Q'um Xiiem) from the Stó:lō and Xaxli'p First Nations, is Associate Dean for Indigenous Education and the Director for the Native Indian Teacher Education Program (NITEP) in the Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia. Since 1992, she has co-edited an annual theme issue of the Canada Journal of Native Education. Dr. Archibald's research interests relate to Indigenous knowledge systems, storywork/oral tradition, transformative education at all levels. Dr. Archibald received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award in 2000 for her work in education. She is the author of the book, Indigenous Storywork: Educating the Heart, Mind, Body, and Spirit, published in 2008 by UBC Press.

Tim Jones

Tim Jones is the current Team Leader of North Shore Rescue. Over the past 20 years, he has participated in more than 1,400 search and rescue operations. He is in his 30th year as Paramedic in Charge of the North Vancouver BC Ambulance Service. A co-founder of NSR's heavily relied on Helicopter Rescue Program, Mr. Jones also established its extensive Communication Network. Over the years, Mr. Jones has helped to raise more than $1,500,000 for the organization's operations and equipment. Mr. Jones received the Order of British Columbia in 2011, an honour extended to those who have excelled in any field benefiting their fellow British Columbians.

Stephen Lewis

Stephen Lewis is a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Ryerson University in Toronto. He is the board chair of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, and he is co-founder and co-director of AIDS-Free World in the United States. Stephen Lewis' work with the United Nations spanned more than two decades. He was the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa from June 2001 until the end of 2006. From 1995 to 1999, Mr. Lewis was Deputy Executive Director of UNICEF at the organization's global headquarters in New York. From 1984 through 1988, he was Canada's Ambassador to the United Nations.

2011 recipients

Rick Antonson

Rick Antonson is President & CEO of Tourism Vancouver, which represents more than 1,000 member businesses and is responsible for the market development of Metro Vancouver as a convention, incentive, and leisure travel destination. An accomplished writer, Mr. Antonson is co-author of Slumach's Gold, In Search of a Legend. In 2008, Dundurn Publishing of Toronto published his third book, To Timbuktu for a Haircut; A Journey Through West Africa. He is invited to speak worldwide on the topic of travel and has regularly come to Capilano University's Faculty of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation to speak to students.

Roger Garriock

After a distinguished 32-year career with IBM, Roger Garriock has been very active in his volunteer life, sitting on more than 18 non-profit boards across Canada and numerous business advisory councils. Today, he is the Director of Canadian/International Operations for Destination ImagiNation, the world's largest non-profit creative problem solving/teamwork program for students. He has delivered hundreds of classes, and is considered a subject matter expert in the field of innovation. A resident of West Vancouver, Mr. Garriock has freely given his time to Capilano University to bring forward an innovation curriculum, and has conducted workshops for campus leaders.

Arthur Griffiths

Arthur Griffiths is a leading Vancouver businessperson and philanthropist who began his academic career as a student in Capilano University's Faculty of Business. As the former CEO of Orca Bay Sports and Entertainment and former owner of the Vancouver Canucks hockey and Grizzlies basketball teams, Mr. Griffiths used his passion for professional sports and his understanding of complex business negotiations to bring together the partnership that resulted in the construction of General Motors Place (now Rogers Arena). A willing and welcome guest at Capilano University, Mr. Griffiths has enriched the recreational and philanthropic life of the region.

2010 recipients

Colin Bennett

As president and CEO of CMA Canada-British Columbia, Colin Bennett has had a long and distinguished career in the accounting profession. A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) since 1975, Colin was a champion of Capilano's accounting program. He spearheaded our efforts to articulate the Capilano degree with CMA Canada and, with his assistance; we became one of the only two accredited programs in Western Canada.

Dr. Paul Cappon

Dr. Paul Cappon has had a distinguished public service career as an educator, a physician and administrator. His leadership to the Canadian Council on Learning and as director general of the Council of Ministers of Education Canada showed his commitment to a vision of a post-secondary system for Canada that was seamless, accredited and understandable to both the national and international audience of students and scholars.

Rosalie (Lee) Grills

Rosalie (Lee) Grills has been a longtime community activist for the rights of women and children, working on their behalf locally, nationally and in the United States for more than 40 years. She was a founding member of the Women's Legal Education Action Fund (LEAF), a founding member of the North Shore Women's Centre and founding member of the Women's Centre at then-Capilano College.

Peter Leitch

Peter Leitch is currently the president of North Shore Studios and Mammoth Studios. He has worked particularly hard on behalf of Capilano – first on our campaign to be redesignated a university, and also on the freeing up of both federal and provincial dollars to finance the new Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film and Animation. At every opportunity, Peter brings attention to the great educational work being carried out by the faculty and staff of Capilano.

Judy Rogers

Judy is the former city manager for the City of Vancouver. Capilano University's local government programming in the Public Administration department (PADM) has benefited greatly from Judy's time and attention as a leader of its Advisory Board and as a frequent guest lecturer in the various program areas.

2009 recipient

Dee Daniels

Dee is a legendary jazz vocalist known as a born educator who utilizes an inspiring and down-to-earth approach with her students that helps them rise to the occasion. She has worked for many years with guest artists in Capilano's Jazz Series and has been a great role model for young aspiring singers everywhere. The North Vancouver resident also gives of her own time on an annual basis to student vocalists in Capilano University's Jazz Studies degree program.

2008 recipient

C. Peter Jones

As a school trustee in the early 1960s, Peter, together with trustees from three other school districts, promoted the concept of a North Shore Community College. He became chairman of the first College Council when Capilano College opened in 1968. Peter was also a retired engineer and former mayor and alderman of West Vancouver.