Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
President reflects on ݮƵ's upcoming 125th convocation
By Vivek Goel, President and Vice-Chancellor. This article wasoriginally published on ݮƵ News.
This fall, wewelcome our graduandsback to campusforthe University of ݮƵ’s 125thconvocation.It is my honour, as president and vice-chancellor, to participate in theseceremonies.
Convocationrecognizesyears of hard-work and commitment thatlaunchgraduandstowards excitingventures and careers.Thesegraduandsjoin an illustrious community ofmore than200-thousandglobal thinkers who are making a lasting impact on the world around us.That impact reflects the original vision of the institution’s founders who sought to create a university that would help tackle some of the world’s most daunting challenges.
Over the course of their studies, thesegraduands have demonstrated a resiliency thatwillserve them well in the next stages of their lives. They have persevered through apandemic, andkept their focus when itcould haveeasily been lost. The lessons they learned during their time at ݮƵ whetherin the lecture hall, laborelsewherewill play an integralrole intheir on-going success.
Our institution’s rich history and the success of our alumni is rooted in community.Thisyear’s graduating classhasleft an indelible mark on ourinstitution,and Iam confident theywill maintain astrongconnection toݮƵas a result.
The University’s motto “Concordia cumveritate” means “in harmony with truth.” Asour2022graduandsbegin the next chapter oftheir journey, I encouragethemto think unconventionally. We live in a world mired in geo-political, environmental and health challenges. Regardless ofone’sdiscipline,we allhold a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in our community and in the world.I encourageour graduatesto take whatthey’velearnedat ݮƵandshape our world’s future for the better.
Of special noteforthose who graduated prior to fall 2022 (during the pandemic) and missed an opportunity to participate in an in-person convocation, we are excited to offer youanopportunity to attend a future convocation and participate in the ceremony by walking across the stage. Learn more about how to register atourconvocation website.
On behalf of the University of ݮƵ,I wishthe classes of 2022all the bestinthejourney ahead.
Learn about student mental health work from campus and community researchers
A message from UݮƵlife.
Join us tomorrow at UݮƵ’s thirdStudent Mental Health Research Conferencethrough MS Teams onWednesday, October 19from 9:00 a.m. to4:00 p.m.Topics broadly pertaining to student mental health will be explored with an emphasis on the following key themes:
- Promotion of mental health-care strategies;
- Impact of trauma;
- Equity and mental wellness e.g., effects of inequities on the mental health of equity-deserving groups such as Indigenous, Black and other People of Color, LGBTQAI2S+;
- Harm reduction approaches to substance use; and
- Impact of COVID-19 and mental health.
We are excited to feature presentations by graduate students, postdocs, alumni and community members, and hope you will be able to join us.There is no cost to attend. Keep an eye on theevent pageas we add more details to our agenda.Pleaseto receive the link to join.
If you are unable to attend, recordings will be made available online afterwards on theThrive website.
Electric plane lands in ݮƵ
A message from the ݮƵ Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA).
The Sustainable Aeronautics Summit at ݮƵ Region International Airport heralded the call by leaders in industry, government, and academia to create innovative sustainable aeronautics futures on Wednesday, 5 October 2022.
Two days later, the University of ݮƵ demonstrated its commitment toward the sustainable aviation goal with the arrival of the first Pipistrel Velis Electro in Canada.
Dr. Paul Parker stands next to the Velis Electro e-plane's main fuselage.
The Velis Electro is the first, and currently only, type certified electric plane in the world with European Union (EASA) certification granted in 2020 and UK certification in 2022. Next, we want to see how it will perform under Canadian conditions. Principal Investigator, Paul Parker, and co-investigators, Suzanne Kearns and Mehrdad Pirnia, share the desire of industry partner, Bob Connors from ݮƵ Wellington Flight Centre, to bring a new generation of innovative technologies to aviation and successfully applied for Canadian Foundation for Innovation funding to acquire the Velis Electro for testing. The Region of ݮƵ contributed toward the charger as they support lower carbon emissions from airport activities.
Working in cooperation with Transport Canada and Pipistrel, the team hopes to provide test results to gain Canadian certification for the eplane so that commercial electric aviation will become a reality in Canada. Following a successful research program and certification, industry could adopt small eplanes widely across the country. ݮƵ Aviation students could be among the first to benefit, both from lower emissions during their programs and the advanced skills essential for sustainable aviation futures.
The action on Friday began with Lance, an experienced handler of Solar Ships, and Darren, his truck driver, arriving at the airport with two forklifts in preparation to unload the container.The customs seal on the container was cut and the door opened to reveal all four pieces that we expected: charger, tailplane, wings, and fuselage.The straps were quickly removed and the charger easily unloaded.
The tailplane was very light and handed over to the steady hands of Bob Connors, WWFC general manager, for safe transfer to the hangar. The Velis was rolled to its new home in the hangar.
Next were the wings.Despite their size, they are amazingly light with their carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) sandwich shell construction. The strength and durability that can be achieved with such light structures is an essential manufacturing miracle for sustainable aviation.
Finally, the fuselage. It was well secured with straps and a small metal frame to hold each of the main wheels in place. Instead of picking the whole container up and off the truck, a large pallet was used so that we could roll the fuselageon and then gently lower it to the ground. 35 minutes after opening the cargo container, the Velis was rolled to its new home in the hangar.
A team of over 100 people have contributed to the project and process of bringing the Pipistrel Velis Electro to ݮƵ. Thanks to all of them, it is safely stored at YKF, ready to start the next chapter of sustainable aviation in Canada.
WUSA hosts municipal candidate open house
A message from the ݮƵ Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA).
Are you ready to vote in the Municipal Election this October?Join us on Tuesday, October 18from4:30 p.m. to6:00 p.m. in the SLC Multi-Purpose room (MPR) to meet and engage with ݮƵ Mayoral and Ward 6 and 7 Councillor candidates running in the upcoming municipal election.
This event is open to all undergraduates, graduates, faculty, and staff. Register atto attend the event. Refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there.
Hagey Lecture tomorrow and other notes
Antoni Cimolino, Artistic Director of the Stratford Festival will deliver the2022 Hagey Lecturetomorrow at 8:00 p.m. in the Theatre of the Arts.
In his talk, entitled"Holding the Mirror up to Nature", Cimolino will speak about the purpose—and necessity—of theatre.
ճHagey Lecturesareco-hosted by the Faculty Association and the University.
While we're on the subject of lectures, St. Jerome's University'sLectures in Catholic Experience kicks off its 2022-2023 serieswith a lecture byDr. Tia Noelle Pratt entitled","on Wednesday, October 19 at 7:30 p.m.Admission is free, but pleaseas seating is limited.
During her lecture, Dr. Pratt will discuss her research regarding systemic racism in the Catholic Church and its impact on African-American Catholics. She will also discuss ways to engage the Church in anti-racism efforts.
Dr. Pratt is Assistant Vice President for Mission Engagement and Strategic Initiatives, Courtesy Assistant Professor of Sociology, and Editor of theJournal of Catholic Social Thoughtat Villanova University in Pennsylvania.
Here's today'sKeeping Well at Work Daily Inspiration:
Hydration is critical to good health
And dehydration can contribute to fatigue, headaches and dizziness. While individual fluid needs vary, most adults need about 2-3L of fluid a day. Keep water close to you all day – sip frequently or set reminders to help maximize hydration. Many free apps or downloadable water trackers exist through an easy Google search. Try jazzing up plain water with a slice of lemon, some fresh berries or cucumber and mint.
Linkof the day
When and Where to get support
Studentscan visit theStudent Success Officeonline for supports including academic development, international student resources, immigration consulting,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).
Instructors can access theEdTech Hubto find support on ݮƵ’s centrally supported EdTech tools. The Hub is supported by members ofIST’sInstructional Technologies and Media Services,Centre for Teaching Excellence,Centre for Extended Learningandsubject matter expertsfrom other campus areas.
Supports are available foremployeesreturning to campus. Visitandworkplace protocolsto assist with the transition.
Studentswith permanent, temporary and suspected disabilities and disabling conditions (medical conditions, injuries, or trauma from discrimination, violence, or oppression) can register withAccessAbility Servicesfor academic accommodations (classroom accommodations, testing accommodations, milestone accommodations).
Instructorscan visit AccessAbility Services'Faculty and Staff web pagefor information about the Instructor/Faculty role in the accommodation process. Instructors/ Faculty members are legally required to accommodate students with disabilities. AccessAbility Services (AAS) is here to help you understand your obligations, and to offer services and resources to help you facilitate accommodations.
ճhasin-person and virtualservices to supportgradandundergrad students,postdocs and facultywith any writing or communication project. Services includeone-to-one appointments,drop-ins at Dana Porter Library,online workshops,writing groups,English conversation practice, andcustom in-class workshops.
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.
The Centre for Career Action (CCA)hasservices and programstosupport undergrads, grad students, postdocs, alumni, and employees in figuring out what they value, what they’re good at, and how to access meaningful work, co-op, volunteer, or graduate/professional school opportunities. Questions about CCA's services?, call 519-888-4047, or stop by our front desk in the Tatham Centre 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,Monday to Friday.
Drop-in to in-personon Thursdays from5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in DC and DP. Join a Peer Success Coach to set goals and work independently or in groups each week.
Renison's English Language Institutecontinues to offervirtual events and workshopsto help students practice their English language skills.
If you feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk to somebody, please contact theUniversity’s Campus Wellness services, eitherHealth Servicesor Counselling Services. You can also contact the University'sCentre for Mental Health Research and Treatment.Good2Talkis a post-secondary student helplineavailable to all students.
The Libraryis here to help, both in person and online. Our spaces are open for access to book stacks, study space, computers and printers, and the IST Help Desk. For in-depth support, meet one-to-one with Librarians, Special Collections & Archives and Geospatial Centre staff. Access our resources online for anywhere, anytime learning and research. Full details on current services and hours are available on the Library’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.
ճOffice of Indigenous Relationsis a central hub that provides guidance, support, and resources to all Indigenous and non-Indigenous campus community members and oversees the University's Indigenization strategy.
ճݮƵ Indigenous Student Centre, based at United College,provides support and resources for Indigenous students, and educational outreach programs for the broader community, including lectures, and events.
WUSAsupports for students:
Peer support -,,,-Click on one of the linksto book an appointment either in person or online for the term.
food 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.
all available online.
-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.
-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.
GSA-UW supports for graduate students:
ճsupports students’ academic and social experience and promotes their well-being.
Advising and Support-experiencing challenges and can help with navigating university policies & filing a grievance, appeal, or petition.
Mental Health covered by the Health Plan- ճnow has an 80 per centcoverage rate (up to $800/year) for. Your plan includes coverage for psychologists, registered social workers, psychotherapists, and clinical counselors.
Dental Care- ճcovers 60to 70 per centof your dental costs and by visiting dental professionals who are members of the, you can receive an additional 20to 30 per centcoverage.
Student Legal Protection Program- Your GSA fees give you, accessible via a toll-free helpline: +1-833-202-4571. This advice covers topics including housing disputes, employment disputes, and disputes with an academic institution.
The Graduate House: Open Monday to Tuesday 11:30 a.m. to7:00 p.m. and Wednesday to Friday 11:30 a.m. to9:00 p.m.We’re open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members. ճis a community space run by the GSA-UW. We’re adding new items to the menu.Graduate students who paid their fees can get discounts and free coffee.
When and Where
Warriors vs. Laurier Blood Donation Battle.Join ouron the Blood.ca website or app. #ItsInYouToGive
on sale now. Cheer on your Warriors W/M Basketball, Football W/M Hockey and W/M Volleyball teams at home during the 2022-23 season..
Zero Waste Month campaign, Monday, October 17 to Monday, October 31.
, Tuesday, October 18, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., SLC Multipurpose Room.
Future Cities InitiativebyColin EllardentitledThe Urban Brain,Wednesday,October 19,4:30 p.m.
Lectures in Catholic Experience featuringDr. Tia Noelle Pratt, ","Wednesday, October 19, 7:30 p.m.,Notre Dame Chapel, SJ1 Classrooms and Library Building.
,Wednesday, October 19, 8:00p.m., Theatre of the Arts.
WaterTalk: Challenges and opportunities for moving from the linear to the circular water cycle, presented byWilliam A. Mitch, Stanford University. Thursday, October 20, 11:30 a.m., DC 1302.
Quantum, Thursday, October 20, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,Research Advancement Centre 2(RAC 2).
NEW -Fall 2022 Convocation,Friday, October 21 and Saturday, October 22.