Community advocate William P.J. McCarthy O.B.C., has received an Honorary Doctorate from University Canada West.
Dr. McCarthy, is a leading real estate expert, philanthropist and community advocate whose lifelong commitment to “Work hard, live well, give back”—a motto passed down from his grandfather—has guided decades of impact across British Columbia.
He has leveraged his real estate expertise to support community and healthcare initiatives across the province, particularly in his home city of Burnaby.
As a private real estate developer and consultant, approximately one-third of his time is committed to pro bono real estate and business consulting. He has been peer elected to lead real estate organizations from the local to the international level.
“We are delighted to bestow an Honorary Doctorate on William McCarthy in recognition of his unwavering commitment to giving back to his community and the province of British Columbia,” said UCW President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Bashir Makhoul.
“His tireless support of numerous community initiatives, both big and small, has undoubtedly improved countless lives, making this province a better place for generations to come.”
A world-renowned real estate expert and practitioner, he has continuously strengthened local communities through his work in real estate and philanthropy.
Dr. McCarthy shared words of wisdom during this Convocation address.
He encouraged graduates to be leaders in all aspects of their lives. He also said they should control their destiny and never, ever stop learning.
“Be curious…curiosity spurs knowledge…think, question, challenge, engage,” he said.
“Time is the most precious of things. A life well lived always wants more time… work, live, enjoy, rest and give thanks,” he added.
“The future is truly yours.”
His transformative contributions to the BC Cancer and Burnaby Hospital Foundations have revolutionized healthcare in the region.
Dr. McCarthy’s historic $21.4 million Jambor-McCarthy Legacy, at the time the largest single-beneficiary bequest in BC’s history, alongside his personal donations and advocacy, have profoundly advanced cancer research and patient care throughout the entire province.
His recent $5 million gift helped establish the BC Cancer-Burnaby McCarthy Centre, will bear his name, the first such honour for a donor.
Dr. McCarthy’s community engagement and leadership has been pivotal, including most recently chairing the Burnaby Regional Hospital redevelopment Capital Campaign.
A long-standing supporter of First Nations art and culture, Dr. McCarthy empowers artists and fosters reconciliation through frequent commissions and gifting plans.
He currently holds nine university degrees and 10 professional designations.
In 2024, Dr. McCarthy was appointed to the Order of British Columbia (O.B.C.).
Dr. McCarty received the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, during UCW’s Spring 2025 Convocation ceremony on Tuesday, May 27.
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