The Honourable William Richards Bennett - Kelowna

William Bennett served as Premier of British Columbia from 1975 to 1986, leading our province through a challenging economic time and left office with the province poised for success in a modern, global economy.

Mr. Bennett's legacy has stood the test of time, as his stewardship of the province left British Columbia with numerous great assets - such as Expo 86, Skytrain, the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre, the Coquihalla Highway, the development of Whistler Resort, and the Alex Fraser Bridge, to name just a few.

Born and raised in Kelowna, Mr. Bennett was a key member of the small business community in the Okanagan and was an active volunteer. He served as president of Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and Kelowna Toastmasters and was campaign director for Kelowna and District Chamber of Commerce.

Upon his father's resignation from the legislature after twenty years as premier, Mr. Bennett successfully ran for a seat in the British Columbia Legislative Assembly in 1973 and, in 1975, was elected Premier of the province. He was re-elected Premier in 1979 and 1983, and retired from politics in 1986 - after more than ten years as Premier.

Mr. Bennett is a builder, an optimist and always held a clear vision for British Columbia. The new Okanagan Lake Bridge, currently under construction, has been named William R. Bennett Bridge, recognizing his service to the province.