William A. Chavira
Chair of the UA Alumni Association Governing Board and Alumni Council
HOMETOWN: Phoenix, Ariz.
EDUCATION: The University of Arizona, BA, Sociology; the University of Arizona College of Medicine, MD
CAREER: Physician, Obstetrics and Gynecology
What’s a life lesson you learned in college?
The value of hard work and perseverance while not losing sight of the long-lasting relationships that I was building, along with developing the sense of personal responsibility as a member of my community.
If you could go back to school and pick a different academic path, what would you study?
I wouldn’t. I enjoy medicine despite its difficulties. They can never overshadow the joy of participating in the most intimate moments of people’s lives.
If you had the talent to do any job on campus, what would you pick?
I would love to be a campus minister for the same reasons I have chosen medicine. It would allow me to work with people at difficult points in their lives.
Why do you give to the UA?
As a first-generation college student, I have a clear understanding that my success today is due, in part, to others who have given not only financially, but also through human capital. I believe I have a moral obligation to give back.
What do you value most about the UA?
I realized a sense of personal responsibility there — that I am a member of a greater society and world. The UA introduced me to the idea that we all have a responsibility to improve the human condition.
What do you hope to see the UA achieve in your lifetime?
I would like to see us go to a Rose Bowl and win it! I hope to see the UA be a leader in solving our world problems and to be an economic leader in our state.
What goals do you have yet to achieve?
To raise my children to be productive members of society who will contribute to improve the human condition while not losing sight of the beliefs and morals that I try to instill every day.
When are you most content?
Spending time with my family and close friends in northern Arizona.
What’s your motto?
“If you want peace, you must work for justice.” -Pope Paul VI
What’s your guiding principle of philanthropy?
Philanthropy begins at home.
What inspires your generosity?
My Catholic faith because I believe everything is a gift from God and I am only an earthly custodian of these treasures. It is my responsibility to share these with others to improve the human condition.
How do you want to be remembered?
As an excellent father, husband and child that used his God-given gifts for the benefit of society.