Conservationist George C. Reifel O.B.C., MGC, MBA, BCom received an Honorary Doctorate from University Canada West.
Dr. Reifel O.B.C., is a third-generation business leader and conservationist from British Columbia whose lifelong commitment to conserving natural ecosystems has left an indelible mark across North America.
Growing up on his family’s farm—now part of the internationally recognized George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary—he has carried forward a family legacy of environmental stewardship.
“We are thrilled to bestow an Honorary Doctorate on George C. Reifel in recognition of his enduring commitment to conservation and volunteer leadership,” said Dr. Makhoul.
“His tireless efforts and ongoing dedication to various conservation projects have benefitted waterfowl, other wildlife, fish, plants and people in British Columbia and beyond.”
As Ducks Unlimited Canada’s longest-serving director, including an unprecedented three-year term as national president, Dr. Reifel has helped lead landmark conservation initiatives that span Canada, the United States, and Mexico—securing, enhancing, and managing critical wetlands for migratory waterfowl and biodiversity. He has emphasized public education and youth engagement, launching programs at Ducks Unlimited Canada and mentoring emerging conservation leaders.
“Find something you are passionate about, not because someone else thinks it is the right career path for you,” Dr. Reifel told the graduates.
“If you enjoy the work, it is very likely you will succeed at it. If you find you don’t enjoy the work, or it doesn’t match your skill set, it’s best to face up to this sooner than later.”
In 1991, he was founding director of the Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research, reinforcing his belief in science-based conservation.
Dr. Reifel has also served as a director and advisory council member of The Nature Trust of British Columbia, where he has helped secure ecologically significant properties across the province.
He is a director and director emeritus of the Pacific Salmon Foundation, where his advocacy has advanced the restoration of wild Pacific salmon and freshwater ecosystems in BC and the Yukon.
For 45 years, he has been an active director of the BC Waterfowl Society, stewarding the Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary—a haven for over 300 bird species and a destination for nearly 100,000 annual visitors.
“There are employment opportunities that didn’t exist a decade ago. Seek them out. Create them,” Dr. Reifel said.
“Be yourself, don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way, but learn from them. A reputation is earned through your actions over time, and it only takes only a few seconds to lose it.”
In recognition of his decades of impact, Dr. Reifel was awarded the BC Medal of Good Citizenship in 2021, and in 2023, he was appointed to the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour.
Through advocacy, land protection and leadership, he continues to inspire the next generation to safeguard our natural world. Dr. Reifel received a degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, during UCW’s Spring 2025 Convocation ceremony on Wednesday, May 29.
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