Murray and Lynda Farmer have enhanced British Columbia as a place to study, live, work and visit. With grace and generosity, they have set an example for community involvement as volunteers, philanthropists and leaders.
Camosun College and the University of Victoria, in particular, have grown in capacity and status as a result of the Farmer’s leadership and service.
Murray served on the UVic board of governors including a period as chair followed by two terms as university chancellor. Lynda served on the Camosun College Foundation and the college’s board of governors including as its chair.
The two established the Lynda and Murray Farmer Walk of Excellence to honour former UVic athletes and coaches. As co-chairs of the Camosun College Foundation Trademark of Excellence Fundraising Campaign — the largest capital fundraising campaign in the college’s history — the college’s Centre for Trades Education and Innovation was made possible.
The couple led the fundraising for the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. As well, Lynda assisted the community of Sidney in establishing the Mary Winspear Centre.
The Victoria Foundation has also benefitted from the Farmer’s leadership and philanthropy. Apart from helping to expand the foundation’s capacity by relocating to new offices and attracting new donors, the couple established a fund in their name that provides annual grants for community projects.
Currently, Murray serves as the Honourary Colonel, Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) while Lynda is a Director on the provincial board of the BC Cancer Foundation.
Murray began his career with Farmer Construction before forming Commercial Crane, the largest privately held crane rental business in the province. He has served as a governor of the Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C. and chair of the Canadian Construction Association. Lynda’s career focused on work within the not-for-profit sector.