William Benzie Memorial Scholarship
William Benzie (July 10, 1930 - January 4, 2018), known to his wide circle of friends and acquaintances as Bill, was born in Longside, Aberdeenshire. He emigrated from Scotland to Canada in 1958 to join the English Department of Victoria College, later the University of Victoria, where for 35 years he was a valued administrator and teacher. With degrees of MA, MEd and PhD from the University of Aberdeen, he was a specialist in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century rhetorical literature and published books in that field. A keen observer of human nature, he delighted in entertaining his many friends with witty stories. He played badminton and tennis (visiting Wimbledon every summer) and was a popular member of the Victoria Lawn Tennis Club and later the Racquet Club. He did a great deal of volunteer work at both clubs for over 30 years, and also served a term on the Union Club Committee. He was a member of the University Club from its beginnings as the Faculty Club and remained a regular supporter throughout his retirement.