UVic mourns loss of friend and benefactor

The University of Victoria community extends its condolences to the family and friends of Bob Wright, a benefactor and close friend of the university.

Mr. Wright passed away Wednesday, April 17. He was 82 years old.

“Bob Wright was a great friend of mine,” says UVic President Dr. David Turpin. “He will be missed and fondly remembered, by me, by the University of Victoria and by the community. His spirit, his generosity and his name will live on in the Bob Wright Centre – Ocean, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, which symbolizes his love for the ocean and his commitment to providing ongoing support for ocean education and research.”

Wright’s generous $11 million donation on behalf of the Oak Bay Marine Group in 2008 was instrumental in the completion of a world class facility that proudly bears his name. A portion of this gift – $1 million – is designated to scholarships for students. The Bob Wright Scholarships include support for senior undergraduate students who work at sea and in the laboratory learning about the physics, biology, geology and chemistry of the ocean; and support for graduate students who conduct original research on issues of critical importance to the future of the seas.

Bob Wright took a deep personal interest in the activities and scientific research of all the students who benefited from his scholarships.

The Oak Bay Marine Group has employed many UVic graduates over the years, and its resort properties and fishing charters remain a source of highly prized summer jobs.

In 2000 the university presented Bob with an honorary Doctorate of Laws in recognition of his exemplary service to the community.