Uncover The Impact Of Marilyn Hawrys Simons: A Philanthropic Legacy

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a Canadian philanthropist and businesswoman who has made significant contributions to the arts, education, and healthcare in Canada. She is the widow of the late Ken Simons, co-founder of the Canadian entertainment company Lionsgate Entertainment.

Simons is the founder and chair of the Marilyn and Ken Simons Foundation, which supports a variety of charitable initiatives, including the Vancouver Art Gallery, the University of British Columbia, and the BC Children's Hospital. She is also a major supporter of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Vancouver Opera. In 2013, she was appointed to the Order of Canada for her philanthropic work.

Simons is a passionate advocate for the arts and education. She believes that the arts can play a vital role in enriching people's lives and that education is the key to a better future. She is a generous supporter of many educational institutions, including the University of British Columbia, where she established the Marilyn and Ken Simons Chair in Contemporary Art.

Marilyn Hawrys Simons

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a Canadian philanthropist and businesswoman who has made significant contributions to the arts, education, and healthcare in Canada. Her philanthropic work is focused on supporting organizations that are making a difference in the community.

• Arts advocate
• Education supporter
• Healthcare philanthropist
• Order of Canada recipient
• Vancouver Art Gallery supporter
• University of British Columbia donor
• BC Children's Hospital benefactor
• Vancouver Symphony Orchestra patron
• Vancouver Opera supporter

Simons' philanthropic work is motivated by her belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. She is passionate about supporting organizations that are making a difference in the community, and she is committed to helping to create a better future for all Canadians.

Arts advocate

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a passionate advocate for the arts. She believes that the arts can play a vital role in enriching people's lives and that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience and participate in the arts.

• Arts philanthropist
  

  Simons is a major supporter of the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and the Vancouver Opera. She has also made significant donations to the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Arts.

• Arts education advocate
  

  Simons is a strong supporter of arts education. She believes that the arts can help children develop their creativity, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. She has established the Marilyn and Ken Simons Chair in Contemporary Art at the University of British Columbia and supports a variety of arts education programs in the Vancouver area.

• Arts accessibility advocate
  

  Simons is committed to making the arts accessible to everyone. She supports organizations that provide free or low-cost arts programming to underserved communities. She also believes that the arts should be integrated into all aspects of life, from schools to hospitals to public spaces.

• Arts community builder
  

  Simons is a strong supporter of the arts community in Vancouver. She is a member of the board of directors of the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. She also supports a variety of arts organizations and events throughout the city.

Simons' advocacy for the arts is motivated by her belief that the arts are essential to a healthy and vibrant society. She believes that the arts can help us to understand ourselves and the world around us, and that they can inspire us to create a better future.

Education supporter

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a passionate supporter of education. She believes that education is the key to a better future and that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. She is a generous supporter of many educational institutions, including the University of British Columbia, where she established the Marilyn and Ken Simons Chair in Contemporary Art.

Simons' support for education is motivated by her own experiences. She grew up in a family that valued education and she was fortunate to have access to a good education herself. She believes that everyone should have the same opportunities that she had, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.

Simons' support for education takes many forms. She provides financial support to schools and universities, she mentors students, and she advocates for policies that support education. She is also a strong believer in the importance of experiential learning. She has established a number of programs that allow students to gain hands-on experience in the arts, business, and other fields.

Simons' support for education is making a difference in the lives of many people. She is helping to ensure that students have the opportunity to reach their full potential and to make a positive contribution to society.

Healthcare philanthropist

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a dedicated healthcare philanthropist who has made significant contributions to hospitals and medical research in Canada. Her philanthropic work in healthcare is focused on supporting organizations that are making a difference in the lives of patients and their families.

Simons' support for healthcare takes many forms. She has made major donations to BC Children's Hospital, the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Medicine, and the BC Cancer Foundation. She has also supported a variety of other healthcare organizations, including the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Simons' philanthropic work in healthcare is motivated by her personal experiences. She has seen firsthand the difference that quality healthcare can make in the lives of patients and their families. She is committed to supporting organizations that are working to improve the health of Canadians.

Simons' support for healthcare is making a difference in the lives of many people. She is helping to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care and that medical research is funded so that new treatments and cures can be developed.

Order of Canada recipient

The Order of Canada is one of the highest civilian honours in Canada. It is awarded to Canadians who have made outstanding contributions to their country. Marilyn Hawrys Simons was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2013 for her philanthropic work in the arts, education, and healthcare.

Simons' appointment to the Order of Canada is a recognition of her significant contributions to Canadian society. Her philanthropic work has made a difference in the lives of many people, and she is a role model for other Canadians who want to give back to their communities.

The Order of Canada is a prestigious award, and it is a great honour to be appointed to the Order. Simons' appointment is a testament to her dedication to philanthropy and her commitment to making a difference in the world.

Vancouver Art Gallery supporter

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a passionate supporter of the Vancouver Art Gallery (VAG). She has been a member of the VAG's board of trustees since 2003 and has served as its chair since 2009. During her tenure, she has overseen the gallery's expansion into a new wing and has helped to raise millions of dollars for its endowment.

Simons' support for the VAG is motivated by her belief in the power of art to transform lives. She believes that art can inspire creativity, spark imagination, and foster a sense of community. She is committed to making the VAG a welcoming and accessible space for all visitors.

Simons' support has made a significant difference in the lives of many people. She has helped to make the VAG a world-class art gallery that is enjoyed by millions of people each year. She has also helped to raise the profile of the VAG on the international stage.

University of British Columbia donor

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a major donor to the University of British Columbia (UBC). She has made significant contributions to a variety of UBC initiatives, including the Faculty of Arts, the Faculty of Medicine, and the Museum of Anthropology. Her support has helped to enhance UBC's academic and research programs, and has provided opportunities for students to learn and grow.

Simons' support for UBC is motivated by her belief in the power of education to transform lives. She believes that UBC is a world-class institution that is making a difference in the lives of its students and the broader community. She is committed to supporting UBC's mission of teaching, research, and public service.

Simons' support has made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Her donations have helped to create new programs, fund scholarships, and attract top faculty to UBC. She has also helped to raise the profile of UBC on the international stage.

BC Children's Hospital benefactor

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a major benefactor of BC Children's Hospital, the largest children's hospital in Western Canada. She has donated millions of dollars to the hospital, which has helped to fund new facilities, purchase state-of-the-art equipment, and support research into childhood diseases.

Simons' support for BC Children's Hospital is motivated by her personal experiences. She has seen firsthand the difference that the hospital's staff can make in the lives of sick children and their families. She is committed to supporting the hospital so that it can continue to provide world-class care to children in British Columbia and beyond.

Simons' support has made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Her donations have helped to improve the quality of care for sick children, and have helped to fund research that is leading to new treatments and cures for childhood diseases.

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra patron

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a dedicated patron of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO). She has been a member of the VSO's board of directors since 2003 and has served as its chair since 2009. During her tenure, she has overseen the orchestra's move to a new concert hall and has helped to raise millions of dollars for its endowment.

• Financial support
  

  Simons is a major financial supporter of the VSO. She has made significant donations to the orchestra's annual fund, capital campaigns, and endowment. Her financial support has helped to ensure the VSO's financial stability and has allowed the orchestra to continue to perform at the highest level.

• Board leadership
  

  As chair of the VSO's board of directors, Simons provides strategic leadership for the orchestra. She works closely with the VSO's management team to develop and implement the orchestra's artistic and administrative plans. She also represents the VSO to the community and to government agencies.

• Artistic advocacy
  

  Simons is a passionate advocate for the arts. She believes that the arts are essential to a healthy and vibrant community. She is committed to supporting the VSO's mission of bringing great music to the people of Vancouver.

• Community engagement
  

  Simons is actively involved in the Vancouver community. She is a member of several arts organizations and she is a strong supporter of arts education. She believes that the VSO can play a vital role in strengthening the community's cultural fabric.

Simons' support for the VSO has made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Her financial support has helped to ensure the orchestra's financial stability and has allowed the orchestra to continue to perform at the highest level. Her board leadership has provided strategic direction for the orchestra, and her artistic advocacy has helped to raise the profile of the VSO in the community. Her community engagement has helped to strengthen the orchestra's ties to the community.

Vancouver Opera supporter

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a dedicated supporter of the Vancouver Opera (VO). She has been a member of the VO's board of directors since 2006 and has served as its chair since 2012. During her tenure, she has overseen the company's move to a new opera house and has helped to raise millions of dollars for its endowment.

Simons' support for the VO is motivated by her passion for opera and her belief in the power of the arts to transform lives. She believes that opera is a unique and powerful art form that can bring people together and create a sense of community. She is committed to supporting the VO's mission of producing world-class opera performances and providing educational opportunities for young people.

Simons' support has made a significant difference in the lives of many people. Her financial support has helped to ensure the VO's financial stability and has allowed the company to continue to produce high-quality opera performances. Her board leadership has provided strategic direction for the company, and her artistic advocacy has helped to raise the profile of the VO in the community. Her community engagement has helped to strengthen the company's ties to the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about Marilyn Hawrys Simons and her philanthropic work.

Question 1: What are Marilyn Hawrys Simons' philanthropic interests?

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a passionate supporter of the arts, education, and healthcare. She believes that these areas are essential to a healthy and vibrant society, and she is committed to making a difference in the lives of others through her philanthropy.

Question 2: What are some of the organizations that Marilyn Hawrys Simons has supported?

Marilyn Hawrys Simons has supported a wide range of organizations, including the Vancouver Art Gallery, the University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and the Vancouver Opera. She has also made significant donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and the Canadian Cancer Society.

Question 3: Why is Marilyn Hawrys Simons so passionate about philanthropy?

Marilyn Hawrys Simons believes that everyone has a responsibility to give back to their community. She is grateful for the opportunities that she has been given in life, and she wants to make a difference in the lives of others. She believes that philanthropy is a powerful tool for change, and she is committed to using her resources to make the world a better place.

Question 4: What impact has Marilyn Hawrys Simons' philanthropy had?

Marilyn Hawrys Simons' philanthropy has had a significant impact on the lives of many people. Her support has helped to improve access to arts and culture, education, and healthcare. She has also helped to raise the profile of philanthropy in Canada and inspire others to give back to their communities.

Question 5: How can I learn more about Marilyn Hawrys Simons and her philanthropy?

You can learn more about Marilyn Hawrys Simons and her philanthropy by visiting her website or contacting her foundation.

Question 6: How can I get involved in philanthropy?

There are many ways to get involved in philanthropy. You can donate to a charity, volunteer your time, or advocate for causes that you care about. Every little bit makes a difference.

We hope this section has answered some of your questions about Marilyn Hawrys Simons and her philanthropic work. Thank you for your interest in her story.

Next: Marilyn Hawrys Simons' impact on the arts

Tips by Marilyn Hawrys Simons

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a Canadian philanthropist and businesswoman who has made significant contributions to the arts, education, and healthcare in Canada. She is the widow of the late Ken Simons, co-founder of the Canadian entertainment company Lionsgate Entertainment.

Simons is a passionate advocate for the arts and education. She believes that the arts can play a vital role in enriching people's lives and that education is the key to a better future. She is a generous supporter of many educational institutions, including the University of British Columbia, where she established the Marilyn and Ken Simons Chair in Contemporary Art.

Here are five tips from Marilyn Hawrys Simons on how to live a fulfilling and impactful life:

Tip 1: Find your passion and pursue it.
Simons believes that everyone has a unique passion or talent. She encourages people to find what they love to do and to pursue it with all their heart. She says, "When you do what you love, you will never work a day in your life."

Tip 2: Give back to your community.
Simons is a strong believer in giving back to the community. She says, "We all have a responsibility to make the world a better place." She encourages people to volunteer their time, donate to charity, and support causes that they care about.

Tip 3: Never give up on your dreams.
Simons has faced many challenges in her life, but she has never given up on her dreams. She says, "If you have a dream, don't let anything stop you from achieving it." She encourages people to persevere in the face of adversity and to never give up on their goals.

Tip 4: Be kind to yourself and others.
Simons believes that it is important to be kind to yourself and to others. She says, "We all make mistakes. It's important to forgive yourself and to learn from your mistakes." She also encourages people to be kind to others, even when they don't deserve it.

Tip 5: Live each day to the fullest.
Simons believes that it is important to live each day to the fullest. She says, "Life is too short to waste time on things that don't matter." She encourages people to make the most of every moment and to cherish the time they have with their loved ones.

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a role model for all of us. She is a successful businesswoman, a philanthropist, and a dedicated advocate for the arts and education. She is a shining example of how one person can make a difference in the world.

Thank you for reading! I hope you found these tips helpful.

Conclusion

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a remarkable philanthropist and businesswoman who has made significant contributions to the arts, education, and healthcare in Canada. Her generosity and dedication have made a lasting impact on the lives of many people.

Simons' story is an inspiration to us all. She shows us that one person can make a difference in the world. She encourages us to find our passion, give back to our community, and never give up on our dreams. She reminds us to be kind to ourselves and others, and to live each day to the fullest.

Marilyn Hawrys Simons is a role model for all of us. She is a shining example of how one person can make a difference in the world.