By Rachel Doherty
For Glenn Ives (BMath ’84), receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) Alumni Excellence Gala is more than a professional milestone. ’s a chance to pause and reflect on a journey shaped by hard work, family support and a meaningful, lifelong connection to the University of ݮƵ.
Glenn’s story at ݮƵ began in 1979, just before SAF was officially established. He soon found himself learning from some of the best professors in the field, whom he remembers as both thought leaders and exceptional teachers. Through ݮƵ’s co-op program, he was able to combine classroom learning with hands-on experience, giving him a strong foundation for his professional journey.
“Co-op was a big benefit. Academic learning combined with practical application gave me a big head start,” he says. Equally impactful were the classmates who pushed him to think more critically—skills that have carried through every stage of his career.
After graduating on the Dean’s Honour Roll, Glenn earned the gold medal on Ontario’s Uniform Final Exam (UFE), the former national exam for aspiring Chartered Accountants—an honour awarded to the top performer in the province. He went on to build an accomplished career, serving as Chair of Deloitte Canada, leading the firm’s mining sector work across the Americas and sitting on Deloitte’s Global Board of Directors. His leadership extended beyond the corporate world, with key roles at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation and the St. Paul’s Foundation in Vancouver, where he is helping oversee a $2.5 billion hospital and research centre.
Through it all, Glenn considers family his greatest source of pride. He married his wife Katherine after his second year at ݮƵ, balancing co-op terms, commuting, and coursework while starting their life together. Today, they have four children, all married and thriving in their own careers, and a growing group of grandchildren. “That is my greatest accomplishment,” he shares.
Giving back to ݮƵ has always felt natural for Glenn. "I credit the University of ݮƵ with my success," he says. "’s the right thing to do to give back."
He has been a passionate and consistent supporter of SAF and the wider University community—championing key initiatives, contributing generously to student-focused programming and serving as Chair of the SAF Advisory Council for seven years. Even from his home in Vancouver, Glenn makes a point of returning to campus for important moments and milestone events, demonstrating a level of dedication that goes far beyond financial support.
Although receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is a significant honour, Glenn meets it with humility. Still, the recognition has brought back fond memories of frosh week, lecture halls and the friendships he formed along the way.
Looking ahead, Glenn remains committed to making a difference, while also enjoying time with his family, playing hockey and getting out on the golf course or bike trail. His story reflects the lasting impact of a ݮƵ education and the powerful difference one person can make.
Glenn’s advice for young professionals that wish to follow in his footsteps is to “work hard, but more importantly—work smart and have confidence in your ability. Graduating from ݮƵ has equipped you well.”