Bob Hamilton

Bob Hamilton was not a typical undergraduate student.  Beginning his degree in 1972, after having previously studied for one year at Wilfred Laurier University, Bob completed his Bachelor of Arts in 1978, after having asked for an extension to finish off his courses.  During his six years at Guelph, he actually took one year off to take a teaching certificate at the University of Toronto.  Perhaps what is so incredible about Bob’s story, however, is that, while he was pursuing his degree, he was also working full-time, playing in a band, and raising three daughters with his wife.  He was very impressed with Guelph’s tri-semester system, as it meant he could continue to take 2-3 courses every semester, while still balancing other aspects of his life.

The initial inspiration for a University education came to Bob while he was working as a printer, apprenticing first for Kelso Printing in the 1960’s, and later, working at the Gueph-Mercury.  Altogether he spent 16 years with the Mercury, setting everything on a linotype machine, which meant that everything had to be measured precisely, or completely redone.  Bob realized that computers were going to become the way of the future and decided to get his degree so he could go into teaching.

Bob began teaching in 1973 in Toronto and continued his career in the city for 30 years.  This meant commuting daily from Guelph and Bob mentioned that a new car was in the budget every three to four years because of all the driving.  In fact, Bob and his family moved to Kortright Rd. in order to make the commute easier.  Bob’s teaching certificate was as an Honours Tech specialist, however, in a serendipitous encounter, Bob landed his first teaching job as a music teacher for a grade nine band class.  Bob had a morning interview at Borden Secondary School, and then went for lunch, having been told to return that afternoon to see if he had the position.  In a chance encounter at lunchtime, Bob met the music teacher from Borden, Tom McGuirk.  Bob mentioned to Tom that he played in a band in Guelph, and happened to have his trumpet in the car.  He was then invited to attend Tom’s music class that afternoon, and Bob, knowing the piece the class was playing, played along with them.  Bob was then hired based on his music experience and art work and taught grade nine band and commercial art.  By December of that year, he had his band class playing Christmas music.  He and Tom remained friends until Tom passed away a few years ago.  Bob’s love for teaching came from his belief that a person needed a degree to get anywhere – even in the trades. He believes in higher education since today’s jobs require technology, and only those with knowledge will be able to get ahead.

The University of Guelph remains a special place for Bob, not only because of the time he spent here, but also because of the connections he made, during and after his education.  He fondly recalls taking art classes in the summer in Zavitz Hall, and remembers picking his courses (which were, for the most part, at night) based on their availability.  For instance he needed a Science course, and therefore picked Meteorology since it fit into his schedule.  He didn’t have the typical undergraduate experience of living in residence, but says, even as a mature student, he found a group of about 5-6 people who became quite close and stuck together.  Bob remained involved with U of G by giving out entrance scholarships at Centennial Collegiate, as he knew the Principal and had several friends who taught there.

One of Bob’s enduring gifts to the University was his donation of a sketch of Alumni House, commissioned by Rosemary Clark, a previous Director of Alumni Affairs, whom Bob knew quite well.  The drawing, which features the front of Alumni House, was donated to the University in loving memory of his daughter, who passed away while attending U of G.  It has been used on numerous occasions, from thank-you cards, to letterhead, to art in the building.  His interest in drawing began when he was quite young, however he never seriously followed up on it until his late 60’s.  His living room is now adorned with beautiful sketches he has drawn, many of historic buildings in Guelph.  In fact, Bob is quite well-known for his sketches, and has been commissioned to do many for various businesses in town, for use on their letterhead, cards etc.  Moreover, Bob’s sketches are so widely displayed, that he saw one of his drawings on a wall in a house his daughter and son-in-law were looking at buying!

These days, Bob continues to enjoy retirement from his home in Mississauga, but frequently goes up to his trailer in Port Severn, where he likes to draw.  He also travels to a car show in Orillia where he proudly displays his Thunderbird.  His continued interest and enthusiasm for the University of Guelph is evident.  He knows Guelph is an institution that can foster the talents of young people and he continues to believe in their need for higher education.  Bob is a wonderful example that hard work, determination and unwavering commitment can unlock a variety of opportunities, and that a degree can further enhance the practical education received through work experience.  He is grateful for the opportunities brought to him by completing one part of his varied education at the University of Guelph.