Some of President Emeritus Peter George’s friends and colleagues share their best wishes for him on the occasion of his receiving an honorary doctorate as well as the naming of the Living Learning Centre residence in his honour. 

“I just want you to know that the honours you will receive Friday are both richly deserved. I hope you enjoy a great day Friday with many friends and family. You are the best.” – Ed Minich

“I had the privilege of witnessing first hand the passion and commitment you held for the institution. Every single decision you made was guided by “what’s best for the students and the University.” Under your leadership McMaster achieved growth and international recognition academically, and tremendous success in attracting financial donor support to fund the growth needs of the University. You achieved this all the while devoting yourself to Allison and the girls. I’m so glad the University is recognizing your accomplishments in this way.” – Colum Bastable

“With your warm personality and unique ability to communicate, you have drawn many of us, without previous ties, to the McMaster family – an outstanding achievement for which we thank you.” – Marilyn & Bob Beamish

“Peter, I am beaming with pride that the University is planning to confer an honorary degree and name a building after you. You have long distinguished yourself as one of our alma mater’s biggest and most consistent supporters. Thank you for all of your tireless support over the very many years!!” – Quentin Broad

“This is just a small recognition for a lifetime of dedication to this institution and everything you have done for its students. Today, a bit more than most day I’m an especially proud alumnus!” – Azim Kasmani

“Alan Deale and I regret we won’t be able to rejoice with you as you receive these two honours. I know you will savour them because of your love for and dedication to McMaster University.” – Kathleen Hunter

“Your contributions to the modern McMaster have been immense, and I join all your friends in celebrating your achievements on this special occasion.” – John Panabaker

“Congratulations on receiving an honorary degree from your beloved McMaster University and having a building there named in your honour. The Dr. Peter George building will stand proudly in recognition of your many accomplishments during your career at McMaster University. Your passion for higher education, your excellence in leadership, your love of pie and your drive to be the best fisherman have contributed to your recognition today. You are an exemplary role model for others.” – Mary Jane and Norm

“You have done so much for the University and I am so pleased that both your honorary degree and building dedication will happen on my watch as Chair. I wish that I could be there but I know that it will be a very special time for you and your family. Sending you the very biggest hug and kiss.” – Jagoda Pike.

“I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honour and recognition. Congratulations.” – John Mayberry

“Congratulations Peter on this much deserved honour. Your friendship with my father and our family has been the source of much pride and joy over the years. I wish you the very best on this special day.” – Ann Fitzhenry Bedard

“Peter, congratulations on the special honours you are receiving. Well deserved in recognition of your significant contribution to the life, work and future of McMaster.” – Sandra Cruickshanks

“The announcement that you are to be honoured in a special convocation and are to have a building named for you came as heart-warming and welcome news. Few others in the history of McMaster can equal your record of devoted service to the university. All of us who hold McMaster in equal affection remain under great obligation to you, and welcome this occasion to share in honouring your contribution and in allowing you to feel the warmth of our gratitude.” – Si Taylor, Chancellor Emeritus

“I am absolutely delighted by these gestures to honour the achievements of my terrific friend Peter George during his lifetime. Peter literally put the University on the map amongst the greatest in Canada. The Jarislowsky Chair ‘out of the blue’ was but the first that Peter brought to the University, bringing increasing prestige and excellence to a University he loved and served so well. Well done Peter. Yours was a class act! – Stephen A. Jarislowsky