RRU mourns the passing of Dr. Bob Skene, a beloved community member

Royal Roads University is mourning the passing of Dr. Bob Skene, a beloved leader whose influence shaped communities across British Columbia and beyond.  

Skene served as a member of the University’s Board of Governors; as Chancellor and Chair of the Board; and as Acting President in 2006. In that role, he was instrumental in strengthening the relationships with community, local First Nations, the Department of National Defence, and Royal Roads Military College graduates. 

In 2008, Skene assumed another influential role at Royal Roads: co-chair of the university’s Legacy Campaign, its first-ever major fundraising initiative. 

In a career spanning more than 35 years, Skene exemplified a commitment to excellence that went beyond the boardroom and into his community. He was an exceptional leader with a distinguished financial management career and an outstanding reputation for bringing business growth to the high-tech sector. 

He was senior vice-president, business and development and chief financial officer with WCG International Ltd. from 2000 – 2005 and, for 10 years prior to that, chief executive officer at the Vancouver Island Advanced Technology Centre. From 1984 to 1990, he was chairman, president and CEO for HTS Hi-Tech Systems Ltd. 

A chartered accountant, Skene also holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of British Columbia. He was president of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in 1989 and served as chair of the Victoria Airport Authority’s audit and finance committee for four years. Skene spent four years as treasurer and chair of the Greater Victoria Hospital Society’s Operations Committee and has served on numerous other boards of directors in a leadership role including the Silver Threads Society, the Association for Community Living and the Camosun Gyro Club. 

Royal Roads University awarded Skene an honorary degree, honoris causa, at Fall 2008 Convocation to express gratitude for his contributions, noting that his support embodied values of generosity and devotion to leadership, entrepreneurship and community service were evident throughout his time serving the university in various capacities.   

Bob Skene was also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather known for his integrity, intelligence and willingness to volunteer for a good cause. His leadership and service will be remembered by generations of students, faculty, and staff. 

The university will lower the flag on Wednesday, June 3, in memory of Bob.