Ralph Barford is known and respected for his business acumen and his generous contributions to the educational and health sectors. As president, then chair, of GSW Incorporated, he positioned the firm as a leading manufacturer. Valued for his ability to analyze and simplify complex issues, he has provided guidance to government, corporations and private institutions, notably BCE and the Joint Committee on Corporate Governance. A fundraiser and benefactor, he also established the R.A. Barford Professorship in Marketing Communications at the University of Western Ontario. His availability and generosity have created opportunities for many of his fellow Canadians.