Capilano University celebrated four exemplary individuals with honorary doctorate degrees this month. találsamkin-t siyám, Chief Bill Williams, who passed away late last year, was among this group, and was posthumously awarded a Doctor of Laws at the school’s spring 2026 convocation ceremonies.
The honorary doctorate is CapU’s highest form of recognition, awarded to people “who have made significant contributions to others through their work or voluntary pursuits.”
Chief Bill, born in 1950 as one of 16 hereditary Chiefs, dedicated his long life to serving the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). His roles included band manager, elected council member, and lead negotiator for Aboriginal Rights & Title. Throughout his decades of leadership, which began with his first elected role in 1980, the Nation grew from a modest size to one with massively expanded territory and a property portfolio worth billions.
Chief Williams was also instrumental in protecting more than 20,000 hectares of wilderness through the X̱ay Temíxw (Sacred Land Use Plan). This protection of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh cultural and environmental heritage showcases the unique ability he had to safeguard his Nation’s traditions within the complex world of modern governance.
Chief Bill’s sons Christopher Lee Joseph Williams and Marc Vincent Joseph Williams accepted the award in place of their father at CapU’s Convocation on June 10th. This most recent accolade for Chief Bill comes after a lifetime of accomplishments. He was also recognized with the Eugene Rogers Award for Leading Conservation Efforts by the Western Canada Wilderness Committee, the Premier’s Award for promoting innovation and excellence during the Sea to Sky Agreement negotiations around the 2010 Olympic Games, and the Civic Merit Award from the City of Vancouver.
From left to right- Capilano University Chancellor Debra Doucette (OBC), President Dr. Jason Dewling with Chief Bill’s sons Marc Vincent Joseph Williams and Kwe-sam-cane (Christopher Lee Joseph Williams). Photo credit CapU.