Doug Hamming joined St. Paul’s Foundation in 1999 as Design Committee Chair for our Lights of Hope fundraising campaign. From the very first meeting, it was clear Doug was more than a perfect fit—he was a visionary.
For more than two decades, Doug was the heart and soul of our Lights of Hope Committee. His leadership brought people together with laughter, energy, and a shared commitment to supporting St. Paul’s Hospital.
As an architect, Doug brought more than technical expertise; he brought heart. He spent countless hours on-site, ensuring every detail of the annual display reflected the spirit of the campaign.
His imagination knew no bounds, introducing iconic features like the shooting star in 2001 and the dynamic “Lights of Hope” sign on the Central Building in 2008 for the 10th anniversary. Each innovation was a testament to his belief that design could move people and tell a story of compassion.
Thanks to Doug's dedication and his remarkable gift for recognizing everyone's contributions, inspiring us to dream bigger, and rallying support through his many connections—the Lights of Hope display grew brighter and more impactful with every season.
Recently, Doug returned to Stantec and supported design the new St. Paul’s Hospital—a full-circle moment for someone who devoted so much of his time and talent to our cause. His vision for Lights of Hope 2.0 at the Jim Pattison Medical Campus reflects his enduring passion for innovation and community.
Thanks to Doug’s creativity and unwavering dedication, a simple idea has been transformed into a tradition that shines brighter every year. His legacy lives on through his family—Nechia, Laiken, Tom, and Ben—and in every light, every story, and every moment of hope this campaign represents.
Thank you, Doug, for lighting the way-for all of us.