Simon Chang is a successful fashion designer based in Montreal, whose portfolio also includes fashion accessories, fragrances, watches and eyewear. He recently branched into home décor when he partnered with Home Hardware to develop the Beauti-Tone line of fashion paint. He became a Member of the Order of Canada in 2008 and received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013.

For the Emily Carr University of Art + Design community, Simon is also an alumnus, friend, advocate and supporter.

Simon has maintained a close connection with the Emily Carr University of Art + Design community since graduating from the Graphic Design program in 1971. He established his first scholarship at the University in 1984, followed by three more in 2007. Most recently, Simon was one of three Honorary Chairs for the successful THE BIG IDEA Capital Campaign.

When Simon visited Vancouver earlier this month enroute to Hong Kong, he made time to meet for a lively discussion about the future of creativity and the role the University will play in shaping it. He also took the opportunity to tour the Great Northern Way Campus where he was wowed by the scale, the architecture and the use of colour.

Simon remains committed to supporting the next generation of creatives. “Trends in fashion come and go. But the need to give back to the community is constant. As a designer I have had the great good fortune to live my dream. Through the [Simon Chang and Phyllis Levine] Foundation, I’m able to give back to the community that has been so supportive of me.”