Seymour Schulich (born July 13, 1940) is a Canadian businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He is noted for his activities in the natural resources sector and for extensive charitable contributions to post‑secondary institutions, particularly in the fields of business, engineering, medicine, liberal arts, and music.
Early life and education
Schulich was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. He earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McGill University in 1961 and later obtained an MBA from the University of Western Ontario (now Western University).
Business career
Schulich began his professional trajectory in the mining and metals industry. He served as president and chief executive officer of the mining company Seagram’s mining subsidiary and later founded Canada Strategic Metals Ltd., a public‑limited company focused on zinc and copper exploration. Over subsequent decades, he held leadership positions in several commodity‑focused firms, including:
- President and CEO of International Nickel (INCO) from 1985 to 1990.
- Founder and chairman of the investment firm GGL Partners Ltd., which managed diversified holdings in natural resources, energy, and related sectors.
His business activities have generated significant personal wealth, positioning him among Canada’s notable private financiers.
Philanthropy
Since the early 2000s, Schulich has become a prominent donor to Canadian universities. His contributions have resulted in the naming of multiple academic schools, often referred to collectively as “Schulich Schools.” Notable examples include:
- Schulich School of Business, York University (donated CAD 20 million in 2000).
- Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary (donated CAD 30 million in 2005).
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario (donated CAD 25 million in 2008).
- Schulich School of Music, McGill University (donated CAD 15 million in 2005).
- Schulich School of Education, University of British Columbia (donated CAD 25 million in 2011).
Overall, Schulich’s philanthropic giving is reported to exceed CAD 200 million, primarily directed toward higher education, research, and scholarships.
Personal life
Schulich is married to Caroline Schultz; the couple has three children. The family resides in Toronto, Ontario.
Honours and recognition
- Officer of the Order of Canada (2010) – for his contributions to business and philanthropy.
- Inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame (2014).
- Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012).
References
- Government of Canada, Order of Canada citation.
- University press releases announcing major gifts (York University, University of Calgary, Western University, McGill University, University of British Columbia).
- Business profiles in The Globe and Mail and Financial Post.