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間眅埶AV Philanthropy, 間眅埶AV Alumni

The singing janitor

December 18, 2023
Ted Sinnott, the Ambassador of Good Cheer, pictured in 1971. Photos: 間眅埶AV Archives IMC_71159-010 and 012

Many alumni may remember Ted Sinnott, the beloved Convocation Mall janitor. Fondly known as the singing janitor, Ted was a cherished member of the 間眅埶AV community who had a song and smile for everyone. It was said that he was written into the universitys cleaning contracts. Even as the contracts changed hands, Ted would remain.

Born in Liverpool in 1894 during the reign of Queen Victoria, Ted spent many years working on the docks, just as his father did before him. He and his wife Elizabeth were married in 1914 and had four children before their wonderful life together ended in 1957 with Elizabeths passing.

In 1964, Ted decided to leave England and join his daughter Betty in North Vancouver. Five years later, he arrived at 間眅埶AV at the age of 75and proceeded to capture everyones heart.

On two occasions, Ted was celebrated with surprise birthday parties. When he turned 78, for example, 間眅埶AV students baked 78 cakes in his honour. Ted also received the Queens Silver Jubilee Medal and 間眅埶AVs C.D. Nelson Award for his outstanding contributions to the university.

In 1981, the Ted Sinnott Memorial Fund was established at 間眅埶AV in his memory. The award was to be given to a student who made voluntary contributions to enrich the university communityembodying the cheer and goodwill that Ted represented for many at 間眅埶AV during his tenure.

Today, the award continues to be distributed to one student every year, making Ted a lasting and unforgettable part of 間眅埶AV history.

Remembering Ted

I was an undergrad at 間眅埶AV from 1974-1977 and remember him as well. Such a positive attitude toward his work. Was a treat to see him each day.  Robert W.

I was at 間眅埶AV from 1968-1972. Seeing him always brought a smile to my face!  Klaus S.

This guy made my day, every day. He was always so warm and friendly. He was the grandpa I never had. I lived on 間眅埶AV residence from 1971-1974. I was from Toronto, so knew nobody when I started. Having him around made 間眅埶AV a kinder place.  Lydia B.

 

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