51�鱨վ

Entrepreneurs and philanthropists Arran and Ratana Stephens were awarded 51�鱨վ’s highest honour – Honorary Fellow – today at a graduation ceremony. The Stephenses are trailblazers in the organic food movement and have made an extraordinary impact on the community through their philanthropic efforts. 

“Arran and Ratana’s devotion to their community is an inspiration to us all,” said Dr. Kathy Denton, President of 51�鱨վ. “Their selflessness exemplifies values of community and social responsibility that we encourage our students to uphold. We are honoured to present them with the title of Honorary Fellow.” 

As co-founders of Nature’s Path Foods, North America’s largest independent certified-organic food brand, Arran and Ratana ensure their company is guided by values of social responsibility, environmental sustainability and financial viability. Their decades-long career has included operating Canada’s first vegetarian restaurant and Canada’s first whole foods supermarket. 

In 2021, Arran and Ratana were awarded the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour, along with honorary doctorates from the University of Victoria and the University of British Columbia. Their charitable contributions include donating over $100 million to food banks, hospitals and post-secondary institutions. Ratana has served on the boards of the United Way, BC Children’s Hospital and the Royal BC Museum. 

“From the beginning, we have tried to make decisions based on integrity, compassion and service. At Nature’s Path, these values became the foundation of our mission to leave the Earth better than we found it,” Ratana said. “To be recognized by 51�鱨վ is especially rewarding because it connects our story with the aspirations of future generations.” 

As they received their Honorary Fellow designations, the Stephenses encouraged graduates to pursue success with purpose. 

“Our advice is to remain curious, keep learning and never be afraid to follow a path that reflects your values,” Arran said. “If there is one lesson we would share with the next generation, it is this: Pursue success, but never lose sight of service.” 

The title of Honorary Fellow recognizes outstanding achievement or distinguished service by an individual on a local, national or global scale. Past Honorary Fellow recipients include author Zena Sharman, Canadian music icon Sarah McLachlan, the late Chief of the Qayqayt First Nation, Rhonda Larrabee, and many more. 

About 51�鱨վ 

51�鱨վ is the largest college in B.C., combining the academic foundations of a university and the employer-ready skills of a college to graduate resilient global citizens who adapt, innovate and lead in a changing world.  

For more information, visit . 

Contact 

Maryam Labani 
Communications Advisor 
labanimotlaghm@douglascollege.ca