- Presidential Installation set for November 8
- Let's get physical for mental health: how 30 minutes a day can change your life
- Air travel isn't going anywhere, so ݮƵ is making it sustainable
- New alumni expert series explains how to disagree with others
- Your Keeping Well at Work Daily Inspiration continues and other notes
Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
Presidential Installation set for November 8
Vivek Goel will be officially installed as the University of ݮƵ's seventh President and Vice-Chancellor at a special virtual event on November 8, 2021.
His Excellency Dominic Barton, Canada's ambassador to China and the University of ݮƵ's Chancellor, will conduct the installation ceremony. Dr. Goel will then deliver an installation address.
Vivek Goel is recognized in Canada and around the world as a leading public-health researcher, health-services evaluation expert, and champion for the use of research evidence in health policy making.
Goel has held a number of senior leadership roles at the University of Toronto including as Vice-President and Provost and most recently as Vice-President Research and Innovation.
He served as founding President and CEO of Public Health Ontario from 2008 until 2014 and also as a founding scientist at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), where he continues as an Adjunct Senior Scientist. Goel has served as Chief Academic Strategist with Coursera, a global platform that connects universities and learners with online courses.
He has extensive experience in governance and serves on the boards of the Vector Institute, Canada Health Labs (Vice-Chair) the Canadian Institute for Health Information (Vice-Chair) and the POST Promise.
Goel is a member of the COVID-19 Immunity Task Force, Chair of the Expert Advisory Group on the development of a Pan-Canadian Health Data Strategy, and Scientific Advisor for CanCOVID, the national research platform for COVID-19 research.
He is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and a Member of the Order of Canada.His term as president started July 1, 2021.
The installation ceremony will be held virtually onMonday, November, 8, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.
Let's get physical for mental health: how 30 minutes a day can change your life
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According to, as of 2020,the average adult spends 39.9 hours working per week and for 47 per centof Canadians, the workplace is the primary cause of stress. In an environment where we spend such a great deal of our time, it becomes especially important to prioritize our health.
One of the most effective ways to combat mental health challenges is by cultivating a healthy physical condition. Mental and physical health go hand in hand.demonstrates that it only takes half an hour of exercise a day to reduce anxiety by 48 per centand depression by 47 per cent.It’s also known to be the #1 treatment of fatigue. Taking at least 20 to 30 minutes to exercise will boost productivity levels to the point where you’re getting more back than what you invested, all while improving both your physical and mental health.
The remarkable thing about physical activity is its versatility; it can essentially be done any time of the day, for as many sets as you like, and in a plethora of different ways—as long asyou’re consistent.You benefit whether you start your day with exercise to set the tone and create a sense of productivity or take an exercise break during work to refresh your mind and alleviate stress and frustration.
If 30 minutes seems too daunting, break it up into 15-minute sessions or even three,10-minute sessions to get yourself started. Challenge yourself in ways you’ll enjoyas you are more likely to stick with it.
As proven through numerous studies, focusing on your physical health simultaneously promotes emotional and psychological wellness. It does not need to be a drastic change in your lifestyle:it’s as simple as asking yourself Dr.Evans’ question: “Can you limit your sitting and sleeping to just 23 ½ hours per day?”.
Read thefull article.
In October, we are exploringKeeping Well at Work: how important it is, ways to increase wellness while at work, taking actions and building lasting habits. Try out theKW@WDaily Inspirationsposted every workday here on the Daily Bulletin and Twitterand join theKeeping Well at Work Conference on October 13 and19.
Air travel isn't going anywhere, so ݮƵ is making it sustainable
By Sam Toman. This article wasoriginally published on the ݮƵ Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA) blog.WISA officially launches at 1:00 p.m. today.
In the early 2000s, there was a growing awareness of carbon footprints amongst climate conscious folks. For instance, in 2004 BP unveiled its“r” to show how ourdaily life — going to work, buying food, and traveling —fuels climate change.
It can be argued BP was shifting responsibility away from their industry and on to consumers. Itworked though,flight shaming became a thing andguilt-ridden vows to limit one’s air travel echoed through a million dinner parties. In fairness,it was the only thingfora carbon-conscious consumer to do.
The University of ݮƵ’s newest researchinstitute,The ݮƵ Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA), believes theair transport sectorcan, and must, do more to bring the aviationand aerospaceindustriesinto the global climate movement. Flying, for all of its carbon consequences, is a fact of life in a global society, butthere is an opportunity forthe industry to changefor the betterand be more sustainableenvironmentally, but also socially and economically.
“As we emerge from closed borders and lockdowns, aviation will play a critical role in reigniting the global economy by transporting goods, humanitarian aid, vaccines, and connecting us in person once-again,” says WISA Founder and Director Suzanne Kearns. “Now is the time to research, collect-evidence, and prepare a new generation of aviation professionalsand innovatefor a future in an industry in need of sustainablepractices.”
Born in ݮƵ’s Faculty of Environment,WISA arrives as a hub of sustainable aviation and aerospace research, technology, and educationacross the campus. WISAfosterstransdisciplinary studies and cross-sector partnerships, focused onbuildinga more sustainable future.
“To my knowledge there aren’t many industry-focused research centres working to make flying better for the planet,” says Jean Andrey, dean of Environment. “What makes WISA so special is that every faculty at ݮƵ has expertise that can make the dream of sustainable flying a reality. WISA’s cross-campus researchers, engineers,planners, scientists, technology leaders and other professionals are all working together to lead innovations towards a sustainable future.”
The Aviation industry is responsible for 2 per cent of global carbon emissions. “It’ssignificant,” admits Kearns. “But chances are your COVID-19 vaccine didn’t arrive by boat. There simply isn’t a substitute to some of the important roles aviation and aerospace play in making a more connected society.”
By focusing on air transport sector innovations, and exciting discoveries in aeronautics WISA can inform evidence-based public policy. The key is getting industry andregulatory partnersto collectively work towards evidence-based sustainable aviation and aerospacetransformationsfor the sector in Canada and beyond.
But what exactly is sustainable aviation? It’s a question Kearns gets asked a lot.
“Well I thinkformost people electric planes and greener fuelscome to mind. WISA certainly has researchers exploring those, but sustainableaeronauticsis so much more,” says Kearns.
Kearns knows the industry. Shestarted flight training at 15, flew solo onher16thbirthday, and hadherairplane and helicopter licenses onher17thbirthday (all theminimum age limits at the time).Shewas flying airplanes and helicopters beforeshe could drive car.She has a duty to reform a profession she loves, butsays, “it needs to focus on an aspirationalvision for the future, and it will take strong partnerships and collaboration.”
“For us there are three dimensions to sustainable aviation, the environmental aspect yes, but economic and social sustainability are also needed. This means everything from equity and diversity in the industry to more efficient logistics which save fuel and save money,” she says.
WISA is already off to a great start.With support from the government,they recently brought astate-of-the-artFlight Simulator which will play an important role in researching pilot heath and psychology — with the added benefit of allowing students to get flight time without burning any fuel.
“The industry needs a champion to work across-disciplines and deliver sustainable solutions addressing aviation’s environmental, social and economic potential,” says Jean Andrey, dean of the Faculty of Environment.“That’s why I find the work being done by the researchers at WISA so exciting. WISA is meeting our moment with ideas, action and industry impact it’s my hope the aviation industry will never be the same.”
New alumni expert series explains how to disagree with others
A message from the Office of Advancement.
Alumni Know is a new video andpodcastseries from ݮƵ’s Office of Advancement. Each episode invites an alumnus expert to share their knowledge and advice on one of today’s big topics. In our first episode, we’re tackling conflicts.
You've probably seen it in the headlines before: we are more polarized than ever. To navigate today’s super-charged disagreements, we turned to Liane Davey (MASc ’95, PhD ’99). Known as the "teamwork doctor," she's advised hundreds of teams on how to work together effectively. Her newest book,The Good Fight, is all about conflict.
Watch the video conversationǰ.
Your Keeping Well at Work Daily Inspiration continues and other notes
Today's Daily Inspiration
Does itfeel embarrassingto ask for help?
Try not to let it. Connecting and sharing when you feel stuck, uncertain and unwell are powerful mental health boosters. You are not alone.
- Be brave: reach out to a colleague,manager orCampus Chaplain. The people around you want you to be well and successful
- Learn about all of theCampus Resourcesin place at UݮƵ to support a Healthy Workplace
- The Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) is in place to supportemployees 24/7
Not sure how you're doing?
See allDaily Inspirationson theKeeping Well at Workconference site. Questions andcontestentries can be sent toohd@uwaterloo.caor tweet.
ճOptometry Rack Packhas had another successful year, according to team captain Marie Amodeo. "The 2021 Optometry Rack Pack team again supported theCanadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cureon Sunday to support breast cancer research," Amodeo writes. "We raised a total of$13,076this year and we were the 2ndhighest fundraising group in K-W.Our 9-year total is$99,217."
"Thanks to those who supported this great cause, which is so important to me, a breast cancer survivor," Amodeo writes.
Linkof the day
When and Where to get support
Studentscan visit theStudent Success Officeonline for supports including academic development, international student resources, leadership development, exchange and study abroad, and opportunities to get involved.
Instructorslooking for targeted support for developing online components for blended learning courses, transitioning remote to fully online courses, revising current online courses, and more please visitAgile Development | Centre for Extended Learning | University of ݮƵ (uwaterloo.ca)
Բٰܳٴǰcan visit theto get support on adapting their teaching and learning plans for an online environment.
are available within your course in LEARN to help you build and edit your content and assignment pages quickly.
The following workshops, webinars, and events are offered by the KL team (CTE, CEL, ITMS, LIB):
- ,self-directed, continuous self-enrollmentcourse in LEARN.
- Independent Blended Course Design(iBlend), self-directed, ongoing
- Copyright Overview for ݮƵ Instructors and Staff-self-directed, continuous self-enrollmentcourse in LEARN.
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Thirty Minute Thursdays– PebblePad – Offered:October 7, October 21, October28, November 11, November 18, November 25, 12:00 noonto12: 30 p.m.
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Introduction to PebblePad: What is PebblePad and Why Would I use it? (CTE7501)- October 5, 10:00 a.m.
Employeescanto help them work remotely, includingmanaging University records and privacy of personal information.Here are sometips for staying healthywhile working from home.
Stay informedabout COVID cases on campus byconsulting the COVID case tracker.
ճhas virtual services and programs to helpundergrads,grad students, postdocsandfaculty memberswith academic writing.
- Meet with writing advisors inone-to-one appointmentsto brainstorm, draft, revise, and polish. No time for an appointment? Tryemail tutoring for undergrads.
- Beat isolation and make writing progress at weeklyVirtual Writing Cafés for grad students and faculty orPJ-Friendly Writing Groups for Undergrads.
- Take anonline workshopor apply to our popularDissertation Boot Campprogram.
- Faculty can requestcustom in-class workshopsfor their courses, or the WCC can facilitate anyexisting workshopsfor student groups.
Co-op studentscanget help finding a joband find supports to successfully work remotely, develop new skills, access wellness and career information, and contact a co-op or career advisor.
ճCentre for Career Action (CCA)is offering some. The Tatham Centreisopen with front-desk support, limited in-person appointments and co-op consults.Services are also available virtually.Book an appointmentǰwith our Client Support Team. The CCA is here to help.
If you feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk to somebody, please contact theUniversity’s Campus Wellness services, eitherHealth Servicesǰ Counselling Services. You can also contact the University'sCentre for Mental Health Research and Treatment.Good2Talkis a post-secondary student helplineavailable to all students.
Whilethe Librarycontinues to focus on digital resources andconsultations, our spaces are open for the fall term. Dana Porter Library is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Davis Centre Library is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.for drop-in individual study space,bookableindividual study rooms,drop-in access to computers and printers, book pick-up servicesand IST Help Desk support.Special Collections & Archivesand theGeospatial Centrewill be accessibleby appointment.Library staff are available for questions viaAsk us.Full detailsoncurrent services and hours are available ontheLibrary’sCOVID-19 Update webpage.
ճFaculty Association of the University of ݮƵ (FAUW)continues to advocate for its members.for more information.
ճUniversity of ݮƵ Staff Association (UWSA)continues to advocate for its members.Check out the UWSA blogfor more information.
The Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO)supports all members ofthe University of ݮƵcampuscommunitywho have experienced, or been impacted, by sexual violence.This includes all students, staff,facultyand visitorsonthemain campus, the satellite campuses, and at the affiliated and federated ݮƵ Institutes and Colleges.For support, email:svpro@uwaterloo.caor visit theSVPRO website.
ճIndigenous Initiatives Officeis a central hub that provides guidance, support, and resources to all Indigenous and non-Indigenous campus community members and oversees the university Indigenization strategy.
ճݮƵ Indigenous Student Centre, based at St. Paul’s University College,provides support and resources for Indigenous students, and educational outreach programs for the broader community, including lectures, and events.
WUSA supports for students:
Peer support - MATES, Glow Centre, RAISE, Women’s Centre -Visitto book an appointment either in person or online for the Fall term!
Food Support Servicefood hampersare currently available from the Turnkey Desk 24/7 in the ݮƵ Centre. Drop off locations are also open again in SLC, DC, DP, SCH and all residences.
Co-op Connectionall available online. Checkfor more details.
Centre for Academic Policy Support-CAPS is here to assistݮƵ undergraduates throughout their experience in navigating academic policy in the instances of filing petitions, grievances and appeals. Please contact them atcaps@wusa.ca..
WUSA Student Legal Protection Program-Seeking legal counsel can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time facing a legal issue.The legal assistance helpline provides quick access to legal advice in any area of law, including criminal. Just call1-833-202-4571.
is a confidential mental health and wellness service that connects students with qualified counsellors 24/7. They can be reached at1-833-628-5589.
When and Where (but mostly when)
(Online Fitness)
Warriors vs. LaurierBloodDonation Battle. Join your fellow Warriors, donatebloodand help us win theBloodBattle against Laurier for a second year in a row.or add the PFL code: UNIV960995 to your account if you have ablood.ca account already. Questions? ContactWarriorsInfo@uwaterloo.ca.
Drop-in toWarrior Virtual Study Hallson Wednesdays from5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Come together in this virtual space to set goals and work independently or in groups each week.
continues to offervirtual events and workshopsto help students practice their English language skills.
NEW -WISA virtual launch event, Tuesday, October 5, 1:00 p.m.
WaterLeadership training seminar, “Knowledge Mobilization 101 for Water Researchers,”Tuesday, October 5, 1:00 p.m.
Beyond digital. Accelerate with the skills you need, Tuesday, October 5, 3:00 p.m.
Webinar: Copyright and Your Thesis, Wednesday, October 6, 12 noon.
Noon Hour Concert:Four Stories,Wednesday, October 6, 12:30 p.m. online. Thisconcert will feature well-known cellist and director Ben Bolt-Martinaccompanied by pianistEmily Hamper.The music will be by local Canadian composers.
Free webinar:, Wednesday, October 6, 1:00 p.m. No registration required.
, Wednesday, October 6, 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Safeguarding Science workshop–ݮƵ faculty, staff, and students involved in research using biological, chemical, radiological, or nuclear materials or technology are invited to join Public Safety Canada on MS Teams, Wednesday, October 6, 1:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.Please register.
Employer Impact Awards Virtual Ceremony, Thursday, October 7, 12 noon.
,Founder and CEO ofWaabi Innovation Inc.,Professor atUniversity of Toronto, andCo-founder, Vector Institute for AI, Thursday, October 7 at 12:30 p.m. Online Zoom presentation hosted by the Cheriton School of Computer Science.
IQC Alum Lecture Series: Corey Rae McRae, Thursday, October 7, 2:30 p.m.
Book Launch, “Dress in Mediterranean Antiquity”, Thursday, October 7, 7:00 p.m., Conrad Grebel University College (virtual).
Thanksgiving holiday, Monday, October 11, most University operations closed.
Save the dates:Organizational and Human Development (OHD) is presenting the fifth annualKeeping Well at Workconferencefor ݮƵ employees virtually on October 13 and 19, 2021.