Avie Bennett, Canadian businessman and philanthropist (d. 2017)

Avrum "Avie" Bennett, who lived from January 2, 1928, to June 2, 2017, was an eminent Canadian businessman and profoundly impactful philanthropist. His remarkable career and extensive benevolent contributions left an indelible mark across various sectors of Canadian society, particularly in real estate, publishing, and higher education. Known for his keen business acumen and unwavering commitment to nurturing Canadian institutions and culture, Bennett's legacy continues to resonate.

Real Estate Entrepreneurship: The Founding of First Plazas

Bennett's entrepreneurial journey saw him establish First Plazas, a pioneering real estate development company. This firm played a pivotal role in shaping Canada's commercial landscape by conceiving, building, and managing numerous retail strip malls across the country. These strategically located commercial centres, often anchored by essential services such as large supermarkets or drugstores, became ubiquitous features in growing Canadian suburbs. They provided convenient access to everyday necessities and shopping opportunities for burgeoning communities, fundamentally altering the urban and suburban retail experience during a period of significant expansion.

Champion of Canadian Arts and Literature: Revitalizing McClelland & Stewart

Perhaps Avie Bennett's most celebrated and enduring contribution was his profound impact on Canadian literature and the arts. In 1985, at a critical financial juncture for one of the nation's most venerable institutions, he acquired McClelland & Stewart. This distinguished publishing house, often affectionately dubbed "The Canadian Publisher," was facing severe economic challenges. Bennett's timely intervention and substantial financial investment were instrumental in ensuring its survival and enabling its continued flourishing. Under his stewardship, McClelland & Stewart continued to publish the works of many of Canada's most iconic authors, including Nobel laureate Alice Munro, Margaret Atwood, Leonard Cohen, and Robertson Davies, thereby preserving and promoting Canadian literary voices on a global stage. His philanthropic vision extended beyond this acquisition; he also generously endowed the Avie Bennett Chair in Canadian Literature at the University of Toronto and provided significant support to various literary awards and initiatives, firmly cementing his status as a true patron of the arts.

Leadership in Academia: Chancellor of York University

Beyond his significant business and cultural endeavors, Avie Bennett dedicated his leadership skills to the realm of higher education. He served with distinction as the tenth Chancellor of York University, one of Canada's largest and most comprehensive universities. From 1998 to 2004, he played a crucial role in the university's governance, offering strategic guidance and fostering its continued growth and development. His tenure was characterized by a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and deep community engagement, further enhancing York University's standing as a leading Canadian educational institution. He was also known for his generous philanthropic contributions to the university, notably supporting its library and various academic programs, underscoring his belief in the transformative power of education.

A Lasting Legacy of Philanthropy and Recognition

Avie Bennett's multifaceted contributions to Canadian society garnered him widespread recognition and admiration. For his exceptional lifetime achievements and profound service to the nation, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1995, Canada's highest civilian honour, and subsequently elevated to Companion of the Order of Canada in 2003. His philanthropic footprint extended across numerous other causes, reflecting a deep-seated belief in the importance of giving back to society and investing in the collective good. Avie Bennett's legacy endures through the successful businesses he built, the vital cultural institutions he saved and strengthened, the celebrated authors he championed, and the educational opportunities he helped provide. His life stands as a testament to remarkable achievement combined with an unwavering sense of civic responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions About Avie Bennett

Who was Avie Bennett?
Avie Bennett was a prominent Canadian businessman and philanthropist, widely recognized for his significant contributions to real estate, Canadian publishing, and higher education.
What was First Plazas?
First Plazas was a real estate development company founded by Avie Bennett, specializing in the construction and management of retail strip malls across Canada.
How did Avie Bennett impact Canadian literature?
He profoundly impacted Canadian literature by acquiring and revitalizing McClelland & Stewart, a major Canadian publishing house, saving it from financial collapse and ensuring the continued publication of Canadian authors. He also established the Avie Bennett Chair in Canadian Literature and supported various literary initiatives.
What was Avie Bennett's role at York University?
Avie Bennett served as the tenth Chancellor of York University from 1998 to 2004, providing leadership and philanthropic support to the institution.
What national honours did Avie Bennett receive?
Avie Bennett was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1995 and later elevated to a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2003, Canada's highest civilian honour.