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Isadore Sharp

Isadore Sharp (born October 8, 1931) is a Canadian hotelier, philanthropist, and business leader renowned for founding Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, a global luxury hospitality company emphasizing exceptional service and the Golden Rule philosophy.^[1]^[2] Born in Toronto to Polish immigrant parents, Sharp grew up as the only boy among four children in modest circumstances, with his family moving frequently during his early years.^[2] He graduated with an architecture diploma from Ryerson Institute of Technology in 1952, where he also earned the Silver Medal and Athlete of the Year honors.^[1]^[2] Early in his career, Sharp worked in his father Max Sharp's construction business and, at age 25, built a 14-room motel, gaining initial experience in the hospitality sector.^[2] In 1960, Sharp founded Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, opening its first property—a 125-room motor hotel—in Toronto in 1961, which set the foundation for a brand focused on mutual respect and kindness in service.^[1]^[3] Under his leadership as CEO until 2010 and ongoing role as chairman, the company expanded to 133 properties in 47 countries as of 2025, employing more than 50,000 people worldwide, and was taken private in 2007 for $3.4 billion with key investors.^[2]^[1]^[4]^[5] Sharp's business philosophy, articulated in his 2009 book Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy, centers on treating employees and guests with the respect one desires, which he credits for the company's enduring success.^[3]^[2] A dedicated philanthropist, Sharp has supported cancer research and humanitarian causes, including leadership in the Terry Fox Run and contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society. He is married to Rosalie Wise Sharp and has three surviving sons. Among his honors are the Companion of the Order of Canada (Officer in 1993), induction into Canada's Walk of Fame in 2025, and the Cornell University Icon of the Industry Award in 2016.^[1]^[2]^[6]^[7]

Early life and education

Family background and childhood

Isadore Sharp was born on October 8, 1931, in Toronto, Canada, as the third of four children and the only son to Polish Jewish immigrant parents, Max and Lil Sharp.^[8]^[9] His parents had emigrated from Poland, with his mother arriving in Toronto at age 16 before entering an arranged marriage with his father.^[8] The family embodied the challenges of immigrant life, instilling in Sharp values of self-reliance, hard work, and family unity through their daily actions rather than explicit teachings.^[8] Sharp's father, Max, worked as a plasterer in the construction trade, often renovating and building modest homes in Toronto's working-class neighborhoods.^[10]^[8] This profession emphasized craftsmanship and self-sufficiency, qualities that profoundly shaped young Sharp's appreciation for quality workmanship. From an early age, he assisted his father on job sites, gaining hands-on experience in building and renovation during his formative years.^[11]^[10] Growing up in Toronto's Jewish ghetto, known as The Ward, during the Great Depression and World War II, Sharp experienced the financial hardships typical of immigrant families, including frequent moves—15 times by age 16—and cramped living conditions where family members often shared rooms.^[8]^[11] His mother managed the household firmly, sometimes taking in boarders to supplement income, while the community provided mutual support amid economic uncertainty.^[8]^[11] These early experiences fostered resilience and a strong work ethic in Sharp, who began odd jobs like selling magazines at age 8 to contribute to the family. This foundation in practical skills eventually led him toward formal education as a means to build on his hands-on knowledge.^[8]

Formal education and early influences

Isadore Sharp completed his secondary education at a Toronto high school in the late 1940s, where he developed an early interest in athletics and met his future wife, Rosalie Wise.^[12] Following high school, he enrolled at the Ryerson Institute of Technology (now Toronto Metropolitan University) to study architecture, drawn by his fascination with building design and construction.^[2] In 1952, Sharp graduated with a diploma in architectural technology, earning the Silver Medal for outstanding academic proficiency and being named Athlete of the Year during his freshman year.^[2]^[13] During his studies, Sharp gained practical experience through part-time summer jobs in construction alongside his father, Max Sharp, a plasterer and builder, which reinforced his understanding of building management and real estate fundamentals.^[11] These roles, combined with earlier childhood tasks like selling magazines door-to-door and delivering pharmaceuticals, instilled a strong work ethic and appreciation for hands-on labor in the trades.^[2] Although lacking formal training in hospitality, Sharp's architectural education and family exposure to the construction industry provided the technical foundation that later influenced his approach to property development.^[1] After graduation, he joined his father's business, applying these early insights before venturing into new opportunities.^[11]

Professional career

Entry into the hospitality industry

After graduating from Ryerson Institute of Technology with a diploma in architecture in 1952, Isadore Sharp joined his father's construction firm in Toronto, where he took on roles managing residential projects, including houses and apartment buildings.^[14]^[2]^[15] This hands-on experience in the early 1950s honed his skills in real estate development and building operations, transitioning from family-assisted work to greater independence.^[1] By the mid-1950s, Sharp launched his own ventures, focusing on affordable housing and initial hospitality efforts, such as constructing apartment complexes and a small 14-room motel on Toronto's outskirts in 1956 for family friend Jack Gould.^[16]^[12]^[2] These projects marked his entry into property development beyond residential construction, though they were modest in scale and targeted budget-conscious markets amid post-war housing demands in Canada.^[2] Sharp encountered significant hurdles in these early endeavors, including a steep learning curve in property management—such as dealing with unresponsive managers for the motel—and broader economic pressures from the 1957-1958 recession, which strained occupancy and finances for affordable accommodations.^[2] These experiences highlighted the limitations of low-end operations, where service quality often fell short, prompting Sharp to pivot toward higher-end hospitality that emphasized superior guest experiences to differentiate from competitors.^[16] This shift culminated in a pivotal decision in 1960 to develop the Four Seasons Motor Hotel, his first major hospitality project, as a 125-room property in downtown Toronto designed to address market gaps by blending motel convenience with elevated service standards like on-site amenities and attentive staff.^[1]^[2] The venture, opened in 1961 despite skepticism over its location in a less desirable area, succeeded by filling a niche for quality urban lodging that prioritized guest satisfaction over mere affordability.^[17]

Founding and growth of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Isadore Sharp founded Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 1960, opening the company's inaugural property, the Four Seasons Motor Hotel, in Toronto, Ontario, on March 21, 1961. This 125-room establishment featured an innovative interior courtyard with a swimming pool and gardens, setting it apart from typical motor hotels of the era, while prioritizing personalized guest service as a core principle from day one. Drawing briefly on construction experience from his family's real estate business, Sharp positioned the hotel to cater to business travelers seeking comfort and attentiveness beyond standard accommodations.^[18]^[19]^[20] The company experienced steady early growth in the 1960s and 1970s, primarily within Canada. In 1963, Sharp opened the second property, the Inn on the Park in Toronto, followed by two more Canadian hotels by the end of the decade, bringing the total to four. By the mid-1970s, Four Seasons had expanded to 10 properties across major Canadian cities. The firm entered the U.S. market in the 1970s through management contracts, starting with the Clift Hotel in San Francisco in 1976, marking a strategic shift toward overseeing operations without full ownership. Internationally, the first overseas hotel debuted in 1977 with the Inn on the Park London, establishing a foothold in Europe and elevating the brand's reputation for luxury standards.^[17]^[21]^[20] In the 1980s, Four Seasons transitioned to a management-focused model, emphasizing long-term contracts and partnerships with property owners to minimize capital risk and concentrate on brand development. This approach fueled expansion in the 1990s, with a push into Europe—adding properties in Paris and Milan—and Asia, including openings in Tokyo and Singapore, alongside resort developments in destinations like Maui and the Seychelles to diversify beyond urban hotels. By the early 2000s, the portfolio had grown to over 50 properties worldwide, reaching more than 100 by the late 2000s through similar partnerships that preserved the brand's control over operations and standards. A pivotal milestone came in 2007, when affiliates of Cascade Investment, L.L.C., along with Kingdom Holding Company and Sharp's entities, acquired the company in a $3.8 billion take-private deal, granting Cascade a significant stake while Sharp retained operational control as chairman and a personal ownership interest.^[22]^[23]

Business philosophy and innovations

Isadore Sharp adopted the "Golden Rule" as the foundational philosophy for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in the 1960s, emphasizing the treatment of employees and guests as one would wish to be treated. This principle fostered a culture of mutual respect and empathy, empowering staff to make autonomous decisions that prioritize guest satisfaction without rigid oversight. By placing employees first, Sharp believed this approach would naturally extend exceptional service to customers, creating a high-performance environment where staff felt valued and motivated.^[24] Sharp's innovations centered on standardized service excellence across all properties, encapsulated in his 24-karat philosophy of service, which likened the brand's commitment to pure gold in quality and consistency. This model stressed attitude over technical skills, arguing that innate empathy and positivity could be honed through training to deliver intuitive, anticipatory hospitality. Drawing from his early motel experiences, Sharp implemented uniform standards like 24-hour room service and twice-daily housekeeping to ensure a seamless luxury experience globally.^[25] In the 1970s, Sharp developed comprehensive employee handbooks and training programs to reinforce this cultural framework, with a focus on hiring individuals for their inherent attitude and then providing rigorous orientation to align them with Four Seasons' values. These initiatives, including multi-session interviews to assess personality and service mindset, aimed at ongoing cultural reinforcement, selecting motivated candidates who could be polished into exemplary service providers. For instance, properties like the Four Seasons Inn on the Park in London benefited from such programs to maintain elevated standards amid international expansion.^[26]^[27] Sharp's 2009 autobiography, Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy, elucidates these principles as the cornerstone of the brand's enduring loyalty, attributing long-term success to a service-oriented ethos that transcends transactional interactions. The book details how the Golden Rule and attitude-driven innovations cultivated repeat patronage and industry leadership, positioning Four Seasons as a benchmark for luxury hospitality.^[28]

Later leadership and company milestones

In 2010, Isadore Sharp stepped down as CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts after nearly five decades in the role, assuming the position of executive chairman to continue guiding the company's strategic direction.^[29] Sharp's ongoing leadership as chairman has focused on long-term vision and key partnerships, including the oversight of the 2007 investment led by Bill Gates through Cascade Investment and Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, which took the company private at a $3.8 billion valuation and enabled sustained growth without public market pressures. During the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022, Sharp's emphasis on employee welfare shaped Four Seasons' response, exemplified by the "Lead With Care" initiative developed in collaboration with Johns Hopkins Medicine International to prioritize staff health, training, and retention amid widespread closures and furloughs.^[30] This approach, rooted in Sharp's core philosophy of treating employees as family, supported a swift recovery, with the company achieving pre-pandemic occupancy levels by 2023 as global travel rebounded.^[31] Under Sharp's chairmanship, Four Seasons expanded to over 120 properties worldwide by 2025, surpassing 130 hotels and resorts, with notable growth in emerging markets such as the Middle East through new openings like the Four Seasons Resort in Mina Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, and Private Residences in Bahrain Bay.^[32] These developments reflect strategic investments in high-growth regions, enhancing the brand's global footprint while maintaining luxury standards. Sharp's 2009 book, Four Seasons: The Story of a Business Philosophy, continues to influence discussions of the company's enduring principles, as highlighted in recent interviews where he addresses its relevance amid digital transformations in hospitality, such as app-based services and virtual experiences.^[33] In these reflections, Sharp underscores how the philosophy of mutual respect guided crisis management, ensuring adaptability without compromising personalized service.^[34]

Philanthropic activities

Support for healthcare initiatives

Isadore Sharp provided foundational support to the Terry Fox Foundation starting in 1980, when he personally reached out to Terry Fox during the early stages of his Marathon of Hope, offering both individual and corporate backing through Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.^[35] This involvement extended to co-organizing the inaugural Terry Fox Run in 1981 alongside the Fox family and Four Seasons, which has since become a global event raising funds for cancer research. Under Sharp's leadership, Four Seasons properties worldwide have hosted annual Terry Fox Walks and Runs, collectively surpassing $500 million in contributions to cancer research by 2025.^[36] Sharp's commitment to the foundation deepened over decades, culminating in his appointment as Chair Emeritus of the board in the 2010s, a role in which he continues to promote key initiatives like the annual Terry Fox Run.^[37] These efforts have been instrumental in driving the foundation's growth, with global fundraising exceeding $950 million for cancer research since its inception.^[38] In addition to his work with the Terry Fox Foundation, Sharp and his wife Rosalie made significant donations to major healthcare institutions focused on oncology and pediatric care. In the 2010s, they contributed $10 million to Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto to bolster specialized cancer programs, enhancing research and patient services at one of Canada's largest non-regional cancer centers.^[39] This gift built on earlier family support for the hospital, including a $15 million pledge to establish the Chris Hugh Sharp Cancer Centre, named in honor of their son and dedicated to advancing cancer treatment.^[40] Similarly, through Four Seasons initiatives, Sharp facilitated over $300,000 in fundraising for the childhood cancer program at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children via the Boston property's annual Terry Fox events.^[36] The Sharps' philanthropy in healthcare is channeled through family efforts, including grants from their foundation emphasizing cancer research and improved access to care in Canada.^[41]

Contributions to education and the arts

Isadore Sharp, alongside his wife Rosalie, has made substantial contributions to higher education, particularly in design and hospitality fields. Their philanthropy to OCAD University (formerly the Ontario College of Art and Design) totals nearly $9 million as of 2024, supporting transformative initiatives in art and design education.^[42] Key among these is the funding for the Rosalie and Isadore Sharp Centre for Design, a striking architectural landmark completed in 2004, which features a bold, colorful structure designed by architect Alsop and Partners to foster creative learning spaces.^[43] Additional gifts have established scholarships and programs to nurture emerging artists and designers, emphasizing accessibility and innovation in the arts curriculum.^[42] Sharp's support extends to international academic institutions, notably through longstanding involvement with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His contributions have bolstered educational programs and research, reflecting a commitment to advancing knowledge in diverse fields. In recognition of this philanthropic impact on education, Sharp received an honorary doctorate from the Hebrew University in September 2023, presented during a ceremony honoring his dedication to scholarly advancement.^[44] Through Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Sharp has championed arts initiatives that integrate creativity into hospitality experiences. The company has sponsored hotel-based exhibitions and artist residencies since the 1990s, providing platforms for contemporary artists to showcase work and engage with guests. Notable examples include ongoing artist-in-residence programs at properties like Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, where exhibitions such as Anouk Masson Krantz's "Spirit of the West" series allow direct interaction with artists' processes, and similar efforts at Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown featuring romantic captures of urban life.^[45]^[46] These corporate efforts highlight Sharp's vision of blending luxury with cultural enrichment, fostering creativity in dynamic, guest-facing environments.^[47]

Involvement in Jewish and community causes

Isadore Sharp has made significant endowments to the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto through the Rosalie and Isadore Sharp Book of Life program, established to foster intergenerational connections and perpetuate Jewish values via tzedakah.^[48] This initiative supports the global UJA Federations network, providing resources for Jewish education, welfare programs, and community building in Toronto and beyond, with a particular emphasis on aiding vulnerable populations during crises.^[48] Sharp and his wife, Rosalie, have expressed that such commitments allow them to "share our good fortune with others, both at home and in Israel," influencing broader philanthropic actions within the community.^[48] Active since the early 2000s, the endowment has helped sustain long-term initiatives that bridge family histories with future generations, reflecting Sharp's belief in endowments as "an enduring hedge against mortality."^[48] Sharp's donations to Israeli causes span several decades, from the 1980s through the 2010s, including contributions to community centers and Holocaust remembrance efforts.^[49] Through the Sharp Foundation, he has supported organizations like the Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Center for Holocaust Studies, which promotes education and awareness of the Holocaust in Canada and internationally.^[49] His involvement with the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, where he has served as co-chairman since 1985, has channeled funds to Israeli social services, including youth programs and infrastructure for community resilience amid conflicts.^[50] These efforts underscore Sharp's commitment to strengthening Jewish ties to Israel, drawing from his own family's immigrant roots from Poland.^[2] In broader community initiatives, Sharp has funded immigrant integration services in Toronto, mirroring his parents' experiences as Polish Jewish newcomers in the early 20th century.^[2] As co-chairman of the UJA Federation, he has advocated for and supported programs that assist Jewish immigrants with settlement, employment, and cultural adaptation, helping to build cohesive communities in the city.^[50] This work, ongoing through the 2020s, emphasizes practical aid for newcomers while preserving Jewish heritage.^[50] Sharp's personal advocacy for Jewish philanthropy includes sustained board leadership in key Canadian organizations, promoting education and welfare initiatives.^[50] His long-term role with the UJA Federation has raised awareness and resources for Jewish causes, while his position as governor of the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews has fostered interfaith dialogue rooted in Jewish values.^[1] These engagements reflect his dedication to community cohesion and ethical giving, extending into the present decade.^[50] Additionally, Sharp has ties to education through support for the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, earning him an honorary doctorate in 2023 for contributions to the global Jewish community.^[44]

Personal life

Marriage and immediate family

Isadore Sharp married Rosalie Wise in 1953, following their meeting at a wedding the previous year when she was 16 and he was 21; their union has endured for over 70 years as of 2025, characterized by a deep partnership that includes collaborative philanthropic endeavors.^[51]^[52] The couple had four sons—Jordan, Gregory, Anthony, and Christopher—born between the mid-1950s and 1960, with Christopher arriving in 1960 before his untimely death from melanoma in 1978 at age 18.^[1]^[40]^[10] Sharp and his wife raised their family in Toronto, instilling values of resilience, education, and community responsibility amid the challenges of building their early life together in modest circumstances. As of 2025, the Sharps enjoy a close-knit extended family, including several grandchildren who carry forward the legacy through involvement in business innovation and charitable giving, exemplified by granddaughter Emily Sharp's contributions to the family enterprise.^[53]^[48]

Residences and personal interests

Isadore Sharp has maintained his primary residence in Toronto, Canada, where he has lived for much of his life with his wife, Rosalie, in a spacious home featuring an atrium surrounded by her collection of paintings and fine porcelain.^[54] The couple also owns a vacation home in Palm Springs, California, which serves as a family getaway and respite from their Toronto base.^[10]^[33] Sharp's longstanding interest in architecture and design originated from his early education, having graduated in architecture from Ryerson Institute of Technology in 1952.^[1] Among his personal avocations, Sharp enjoys playing tennis and bridge, activities he pursues alongside travel to relax and spend time with family, such as visits to their Palm Springs property.^[10]^[16] He has explicitly stated that he does not play golf, despite living near golf courses in Toronto.^[55] Sharp has cultivated a notably low-profile personal life, characterized by modesty and a focus on family and close relationships, with no public record of scandals as of 2025.^[54]^[33] He describes himself as "very low-key" and likeable, prioritizing self-reflection and supportive partnerships over public attention.^[54]

Awards and recognitions

Industry and business honors

Isadore Sharp has been recognized with several prestigious awards for his pioneering leadership in the hospitality industry and entrepreneurial achievements. These honors highlight his role in transforming Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts into a global luxury brand, emphasizing innovative business practices and long-term success.^[1] In 1993, Sharp was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honors, for his exceptional contributions to business leadership in the hotel and resort sector.^[6] The appointment acknowledged his vision in building a world-class hospitality enterprise from modest origins. In 1998, Sharp was inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame for his entrepreneurial success and contributions to Canadian business.^[1] Sharp received the International Horatio Alger Award in 2013 from the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, which celebrates distinguished individuals who have succeeded despite facing adversity, often starting from humble beginnings.^[2] The award specifically recognized his entrepreneurial journey, from founding Four Seasons in 1961 to establishing it as an industry leader through innovative service standards and global expansion.^[56] In 2003, Sharp received the Lifetime Achievement Entrepreneur of the Year award from Ernst & Young Ontario.^[57] In 2016, the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration presented Sharp with the Icon of the Industry Award, honoring lifetime achievements of visionaries who have shaped the global hospitality landscape.^[58] This recognition underscored his profound influence on hospitality practices, including fostering educational initiatives that advance industry standards and professional development.^[3] In 2025, Sharp was inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame in the categories of entrepreneurship and philanthropy, celebrating his foundational contributions to Canadian business through the creation and growth of Four Seasons into a premier international hospitality company.^[7] The induction highlighted his innovative approach to luxury service, which propelled the company's expansion to over 120 properties worldwide.^[59]

Philanthropic and public service awards

In recognition of his extensive philanthropic efforts supporting education and Jewish causes, Isadore Sharp received an honorary doctorate from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 2023. The award, presented by university president Professor Asher Cohen, highlighted Sharp's visionary contributions as a philanthropist, including the establishment of the Isadore Sharp Einstein Doctoral Scholarships and other endowments that honor his parents' legacy of supporting the institution, alongside his broader dedication to Jewish communities worldwide.^[44] In 1983, Sharp received the inaugural Ruth Hartman Frankel Humanitarian Award from the Canadian Cancer Society for his contributions to cancer research and humanitarian causes.^[3] Sharp has received multiple honors from Jewish organizations in Toronto during the 2010s for his community endowments and leadership. In 2013, he and his family were honored by the Clanton Park Synagogue for a $1 million donation toward its capital campaign, recognizing their generous support for Jewish communal infrastructure. Additionally, in 2014, Sharp was acknowledged as a founder by the University of Toronto's Centre for Jewish Studies, in partnership with the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto, for his contributions fostering Jewish education and scholarship.^[60]^[61]

Board positions and affiliations

Corporate directorships

Isadore Sharp founded Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 1961 and has served as its Chairman since inception, providing ongoing strategic guidance to the global luxury hospitality company as of 2025.^[1] In this capacity, Sharp influences key decisions on property development and brand expansion, drawing from his early career in construction and architecture to shape hospitality real estate projects.^[54] He transitioned from the role of Chief Executive Officer in 2010, allowing him to concentrate on board-level oversight while remaining deeply engaged in the firm's operations.^[62] Beyond Four Seasons, Sharp holds positions on several corporate boards, reflecting his expertise in finance and investment. He currently serves as an Honorary Director of Scotiabank, the Canadian multinational bank, a role that recognizes his long-standing contributions to the financial sector.^[1] Additionally, he is a Director of Clairvest Group Inc., a Toronto-based private equity firm focused on middle-market investments, where he advises on portfolio strategies in sectors including consumer and business services.^[1] He previously held a full directorship at The Bank of Nova Scotia before assuming his current honorary position.^[63] In the real estate domain tied to hospitality, Sharp served as a Director of Pan Cana Resources Ltd., a Canadian development firm, leveraging his experience in property construction to support projects aligned with hotel expansions.^[50] These roles underscore Sharp's influence in corporate governance, particularly in industries intersecting with his core expertise in luxury hospitality and real estate.^[63]

Nonprofit and advisory roles

Isadore Sharp has demonstrated a strong commitment to nonprofit leadership, particularly in health research and interfaith community initiatives. His involvement with the Terry Fox Foundation dates back to 1980, when he contacted Terry Fox during his Marathon of Hope following the death of his own son from cancer two years earlier. Sharp founded the annual Terry Fox Run in 1981, the world's largest single-day fundraising event for cancer research, and initiated corporate sponsorship programs to support it. He served as a director of the National Terry Fox Run and joined the Foundation's board, becoming chairman before being elected Chair Emeritus in 2013, a role he maintains to oversee strategic direction and fundraising efforts that have raised over $950 million for cancer research and healthcare innovation.^[35]^[64]^[1]^[10]^[65] In Jewish community causes, Sharp has been a major philanthropist through the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto, where he and his wife Rosalie have established endowments to support intergenerational cultural preservation, education, and charitable initiatives for the Jewish community in the region. Their contributions are highlighted in the Foundation's Book of Life, recognizing sustained impact on endowment growth and grantmaking.^[48] Following substantial donations in the 2020s, including nearly $9 million to OCAD University in 2024 for art and design programs,^[66] Sharp's endowments, such as the Isadore Sharp Einstein Doctoral Scholarships, and a 2023 honorary doctorate have supported the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in scientific research and education.^[67]^[44] As of 2025, Sharp participates in Canadian civic councils like the Council for Canadian Unity, promoting philanthropy among business leaders to foster national cohesion and charitable giving.^[50] He is also a Governor of the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews and an Honorary Officer of the Mount Sinai Hospital Board.^[1] Through the Terry Fox role, he has advanced healthcare support, channeling funds to leading research institutions for cancer treatment breakthroughs.^[2]

References

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Isadore Sharp. Founder and Chairman. “The reason for our success is no secret. It comes down to one single principle that transcends time and geography ...
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Isadore Sharp, the third of four children and the only boy, was born in 1931 in Toronto, Canada. Both his parents were immigrants from Poland.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
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Isadore Sharp - Four Seasons Press Room
Founder and Chairman · Director of the National Terry Fox Run; initiated the corporate sponsorship program supporting the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope and is ...
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Occupation: Business. Nationality: Canada Executive summary: Founder, Four Seasons Hotels. Father: Max Sharp Mother: Lil Sharp Sister: Edith (b. 1927) Sister ...Missing: profession | Show results with:profession
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Isadore "Issy" Sharp, OC (born October 8, 1931) is a Canadian hotelier and philanthropist. He is founder and chairman of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.Early life and education · Career · Philanthropy · Personal life
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Oct 28, 2002 · ... first hotel, called the Four Seasons Motor Hotel, in Toronto in 1961. The 125 rooms faced a beautiful interior courtyard with a pool and ...
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The one hundred honoree: Isadore Sharp - Mass General Giving
Isadore has led every Four Seasons Hotel throughout the world in organizing an annual Terry Fox Walk/Run to raise funds for a local cancer research facility.
[35]
Three New Board Members Join the Terry Fox Foundation
Oct 14, 2025 · The Terry Fox Foundation's Board of Directors include: Isadore Sharp (Chair Emeritus), Founder and Chairman, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts ...
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Our Social Commitment | People and Communities - Four Seasons
Since 1980, over USD 950 million has been raised for cancer research in Terry's name, and in 2024, Four Seasons Corporate and team members around the world ...
[37]
$$10 million gift to support leading-edge cancer care at Mount Sinai ...
Nov 5, 2013 · Isadore and Rosalie Sharp have made an extraordinary $10 million gift that will further strengthen the hospital's position as one of the largest (non-regional) ...
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About Christopher Sharp | Sinai Health
In 2013, the Sharps donated $15 million to create the Chris Hugh Sharp Cancer Centre at Mount Sinai Hospital, part of Sinai Health. Their gift embodies the ...
[39]
Mount Sinai Hospital receives $10-million donation - Toronto Star
Nov 5, 2013 · Philanthropic gift from Rosalie and Isadore Sharp, founder and chairman of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, will support cancer services.
[40]
Celebrating Generosity - Toronto - OCAD University
Meet Rosalie and Isadore Sharp: Shaping the Future of Art and Design · Meet Catherine (Kiki) and Ian Delaney & The Delaney Family Foundation: Championing ...
[41]
Sharp Centre 10th anniversary celebrated with $5 million gifts
Nov 26, 2014 · CNW/ - Benefactors Rosalie and Isadore Sharp, founders of the famed Four Seasons Hotel chain, pledged $3 million to OCAD University, ...
[42]
Isadore Sharp Receives Honorary Doctorate from Hebrew University
Sep 24, 2023 · Mr. Isadore Sharp was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Presented by Professor Asher Cohen, ...
[43]
Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts | Artist in Residence - Four Seasons
Join us as we welcome Anouk Masson Krantz as our Artist-in-Residence, featuring her black-and-white exhibition “Spirit of the West” on view through April 2026.Missing: sponsorship 1990s
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Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown Announces New Artist-in ...
Feb 3, 2025 · Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown Announces New Artist-in-Residence Program: City of Love – Romantic Captures of New York. February 3 ...Missing: philanthropy sponsorship exhibitions
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Arts & Culture at Four Seasons | Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
Admire the sculptural floral installations from Jeff Leatham in our lobby and an exclusive composition of on-screen video and sound from Brian Eno in your room.Missing: philanthropy | Show results with:philanthropy
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Rosalie & Isadore Sharp - Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto
As Israeli citizens are fighting and dying, weathering the tensions of their daily lives in the Jewish homeland, it is essential that we give accordingto our ...Missing: childhood | Show results with:childhood
[47]
THE SHARP FOUNDATION - Charity Data
The Sharp Foundation, Summary, 1165 LESLIE STREET TORONTO, Ontario M3C2K8 CA, Revenue and Total Expenditures, Revenue Expenditure 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019.Missing: Rosalie | Show results with:Rosalie
[48]
Isadore Sharp - Lifestyles Magazine
Mar 30, 2022 · Mr. Sharp is a Member of the Advisory Board of Financial Post, the Governor's Council of North York General Hospital and the Boards of Governors ...Missing: donations Massachusetts
[49]
Me & Issy: the extraordinary story on how the Four Seasons Hotel ...
Sep 3, 2022 · Me & Issy is the rags-to-riches tale of a larger-than-life romance spanning over seven decades, about how a young woman from a poor, immigrant family meets and ...Missing: philanthropy | Show results with:philanthropy<|control11|><|separator|>
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Beverly Chase Magee | Four Seasons Founder Isadore Sharp. 91 ...
Four Seasons Founder Isadore Sharp. 91 years young. Married to his love Rosalie for 70 years. And greatest of all time. more. View all 24 comments.
[51]
Staying Sharp - Alumni - Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)
Jul 30, 2020 · Less than a decade after graduating in 1952 with a diploma in Architectural Science from what was then the Ryerson Institute of Technology, he ...
[52]
Still Sharp: How Isadore Sharp built a luxury-hotel empire
Sep 28, 2023 · In 1976, you had seven hotels and two under construction. Ten years later, you had 18 hotels. And you'd expanded despite the recession that hit ...
[53]
No Time for Golf as Four Seasons Founder Sharp Eyes Expansion
Jun 25, 2017 · The son of Polish Jewish immigrants, Sharp started adult life working for his father's construction business after getting a degree in ...Missing: integration | Show results with:integration
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Mr. Isadore Sharp | The Governor General of Canada
Officer of the Order of Canada. Awarded on: October 21, 1992; Invested on: April 21, 1993. This chairman and president of the Four Seasons hotel and resort ...
[55]
Isadore Sharp wins Horatio Alger Award - Newswire.ca
Mar 5, 2013 · Sharp will be honoured in Washington, D.C., during the 66th Annual Horatio Alger Awards Induction Ceremonies from April 4-6, 2013. "Isadore ...
[56]
Four Seasons Founder And Chairman Isadore Sharp Receives ...
Jun 7, 2016 · Four Seasons Founder And Chairman Isadore Sharp Receives Cornell Icon Of The Industry Award. Award celebrates Sharp's significant contributions ...
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Isadore Sharp - Canada's Walk of Fame
Inducted for entrepreneurship & philanthropy, Isadore Sharp's legacy includes founding Four Seasons Hotels & profound philanthropic impacts.<|control11|><|separator|>
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TIFF, Four Seasons founder Isadore Sharp to be inducted into ...
The Toronto International Film Festival and Four Seasons founder Isadore Sharp will be inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame this year. ... 2025 ...
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Toronto shul honours Sharp for $1M donation
Nov 25, 2013 · Isadore and Rosalie Sharp and family have donated $1 million to the campaign, which has exceeded its original $1.5-million goal and raised close ...Missing: Foundation | Show results with:Foundation
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Outstanding community support fosters Jewish studies
Dec 1, 2014 · ... Isadore and Rosalie Sharp, Edward and Fran Sonshine and the UJA Federation of Greater Toronto. They are recognized as Founders on the donor ...
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At Four Seasons Hotels, Sharp era nears an end - The Globe and Mail
Jun 25, 2010 · Mr. Sharp is expected to step down as chief executive officer, to be succeeded by current president and chief operating officer Kathleen (Katie) Taylor.
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Isadore Sharp: Positions, Relations and Network - MarketScreener
Sharp's current job is as a Director at The Canadian Unity Council. His former jobs include being a Director at The Bank of Nova Scotia, an Independent Director ...<|control11|><|separator|>
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The Terry Fox Foundation (TFF) is pleased to announce a new ...
Aug 15, 2013 · Sharp was elected to the new role of chairman emeritus to the Board. Mr. Sharp was the first Canadian corporate leader to support Terry's ...
[64]
Meet Rosalie and Isadore Sharp: Shaping the Future of Art and Design
Oct 29, 2024 · Through Rosalie and Isadore's support, the Sharps have not only contributed to the physical transformation of OCAD U's campus buildings but have ...Missing: Waterloo | Show results with:Waterloo
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[PDF] Feeding the World - HUJI OpenScholar
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel's first university and a symbol ... in recognition of his endowment of the Isadore Sharp Einstein Doctoral.