Thomas was an accomplished alumnus of UBC’s Chemical and Biological Engineering Department, graduating in 2007. He is remembered for his inspirational personality and love of the outdoors, his involvement in mentoring and outreach activities, his passion for the engineering profession, and his commitment to environmental sustainability. During his time at UBC, he made a positive and lasting impression on students, staff, and faculty in the Faculty of Applied Science, many of whom were devastated by his untimely death in a tragic mountain climbing accident on April 1, 2010, at the age of 26.

Thomas’ passion for and achievements in the field of sustainability were impressive and inspiring, and they fit very closely with the university’s commitment to embrace and enhance academic, economic, environmental, and social sustainability both locally and internationally. For example, he played a key role in bringing a biodiesel production project to UBC, and his dedication is remembered by a plaque hung in his honour near the project’s reactor.

The Thomas Bennett Memorial Award in Chemical and Biological Engineering was established by family, friends and colleagues at UBC. Thomas inspired those around him with his prodigious achievements and his passion and commitment to live life to the fullest and make a difference through sustainability.

Your gift will honour Thomas’ memory and keep his legacy alive for generations to come. Donations will be used to support current and future undergraduate Chemical and Biological Engineering students who have shown academic achievement, leadership, and social and environmental concern.