Laurier honours WestJet co-founder Clive Beddoe at fall convocation

WATERLOO – WestJet co-founder and entrepreneur Clive Beddoe will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree at Wilfrid Laurier University’s fall convocation on Friday, Oct. 30. Approximately 1,045 students are eligible to convocate, the largest number ever for Laurier’s fall convocation.

The convocation ceremonies will take place at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex. The morning ceremony starts at 10:00 a.m. for graduates of the School of Business & Economics. The afternoon ceremony begins at 2:00 p.m. for graduates of the faculties of Arts, Science, Music, Social Work, Education, and Laurier Brantford and Waterloo Lutheran Seminary.

Beddoe will receive his honorary degree at the morning ceremony, at which time he will address graduates of Laurier’s School of Business & Economics.

A native of England, Beddoe moved to Canada in 1970 and began a successful career as an entrepreneur in real estate and in plastics enterprises. In 1996, he was the lead partner in launching WestJet Airlines Ltd. as a lower-cost, service-oriented alternative to more established airlines.

Beddoe’s innovative approach was well-received by consumers. From its first scheduled flight in February 1996, WestJet has grown to be one of Canada’s leading airlines, employing more than 7,500 people and offering service to 66 destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Under Beddoe’s leadership, WestJet developed a service-oriented corporate culture that emphasizes the important role played by employees in a company’s success.

Beddoe was president and chief executive officer of WestJet until 2007, when he moved into his current role as chair of WestJet’s board of directors. He has received numerous national awards for his achievements in business, including Laurier’s Outstanding Business Leader award in 2002.