Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
Thank you for being part of our Giving Tuesday success
A messagefrom the Office of Advancement.
There must be something in the water(loo)! Despite inflation and the looming threat of a recession, our campus community rose to the challenge on Giving Tuesday, smashing records once again with$761,934.57 donated by 1,633 people, including 564 of our own faculty, staff and retirees.Thank you for another amazing year!
A few highlights from the day:
- Most Donors Challenge:239 donorsmade a gift to Optometry and Vision Science Challenge #2, unlocking an additional$10,000for the ݮƵ Eye Institute Fund.
- Most Dollars Challenge: $160,056was raised through Optometry and Vision Science Challenge #1, which means$2,000more for the ݮƵ Eye Institute Fund.
- 25of our challenges were completed, unlocking a total of$164,289.57 from our Challenge Champions.
You can see the results on the.Thank you for bringing joy to our campus community — on Giving Tuesday and all year through.
Nobel Laureate Donna Strickland receives top honours from Canada and France
ByKatharine Tuerke, Faculty of Science.
ݮƵ's Nobel Laureate Donna Strickland received top honours from Canada and France last week in Ottawa for her contributions to science. She was appointed theCompanion ofthe Order of Canada medal and named a Knightof the Legion of Honour.
Donna Strickland is a global giant in the field of physics and a professor in theDepartment of Physics and Astronomy.Sheis a co-recipient of the2018 Nobel Prize in Physics,with Gérard Mourou, herdoctoral supervisor at the time.
Strickland developed a technique called "chirped pulse amplification" thatamplify beams without damaging the laser amplifier in the process. They realized that by stretching, amplifying, and then compressing the beams, they could boost the intensity of the light dramatically. It allowed more light to packed into a shorter time, increasing the intensity of the pulse, while allowing laser beams to cut into matter with extreme precision.
Chirped pulse amplification has revolutionized the use of high-intensity laser physics and presents tremendous possibilities both for scientists and industry leader. Laser tools based on chirped pulse amplification are now employed in scientific, industrial, medical, energy, military and security applications.
Companion of the Order of Canada
Strickland was given the award bythe 27thgovernor general of Canada, The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, who is currently theChancellor for United College. The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, invested 5 Companions, 12 Officersand 31 Membersduring a ceremony atRideau Hall on November 17th.
Canada's current Governor General of Canada, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, was ill and unable to preside over theceremony.
Companion ofthe Order of Canada Donna Strickland and the 27thgovernor general of Canada, The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean. Credit:MCpl Anis Assari, Rideau Hall.
Strickland was appointed aCompanion of the Order of Canada, the highest level,for her contributions to optical physics and for her innovative developments in ultra-fast optical science. The appointment was announced in December 2019 but Strickland did not receive her medal until last week due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The contributions of these trailblazers are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country. Their grit and passion inspire us, teach us and show us the way forward. They exemplify the Order’s motto: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (They desire a better country)."
Theis one of our country’s highest honours and was established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Appointments recognize outstanding achievement, dedication to the communityand service to the nation. There are three levels to the Order: Companion, Officer and Member.
More than 7,600 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order.These appointments are made on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.
Knight of the Legion of Honour
The Ambassador of France to Canada,Mr.Michel Mirailletpresented Stricklandwith the insignia of Knight of the Legion of Honour at the French Embassy. It is France's highest honourand was established in 1802 byNapoleon Bonaparte. It rewards outstanding merit acquired in the service of France.
Ambassador of France to Canada, Mr. Michel Miraillet and ݮƵ's Dr.Donna Strickland.Credit: French Embassy in Ottawa.
This award symbolizes the French Republic’s recognition of Strickland’s exceptional career, her commitment to scientific culture, but also the recognition of an example of the many fruitful scientific partnerships between France and Canada, in her exceptional work with the French Gérard Mourou.
"When it comes to science, I believe our two countries share a deep commitment to a variety of topics," said Ambassador MichelMiraillet. "The first one – and the most important one – is the dedication to ethical, globalized and open science. Let’s remind us that France and Canada scientific papers are produced collectively, involving multiple international partners. The outstanding work made by Gérard Mourou and yourself is only an example of what French-Canadian research has output. I am truly convinced there will be more to come, as much as I am dedicated to make it happen."
Congratulations Donna!
Remembering Distinguished Professor Emeritus Roger Downer
died on November 19, 2022.
Born in 1942 in Belfast, Ireland, Dr. Downer graduated from Queen’s University, Belfast and received a PhD from the University of Western Ontario (now Western University) in 1970.
He started at the University of ݮƵ in 1969 as a Lecturer in the Biology department, and was named Assistant Professor in 1970. In 1976, he was named Associate Professor and was promoted to full Professor in 1981.
His teaching focus was on animal physiology, with research focuses on insect physiology and biochemistry, neurochemistry, and insecticide discovery.He became widely known for his published work in the fieldof entomology.
Dr. Downer served as the chair of the Biology Department from 1986 to 1989, and as acting Dean of the Faculty of Science in 1989. In 1989 he was named Vice-President, University Development, the forerunner to the current Vice-President, Advancement and Vice-President, University Relations positions, focusing on institutional development and fundraising. The position was renamed Vice-President, University Relations in 1990 and oversaw the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs (today’s Office of Advancement) and Information and Public Affairs (today’s University Relations department). He served as advisor to the Vice-President, Academic for the University’s research institutes, centres and groups and was a source of expertise in high-level research activity at the University.
During his career he served on the Biological Council of Canada, was president of the Canadian Society of Zoologists, was director of the Entomological Societies of Ontario and Canada, and was named Director of the Huntsman Marine Biology Lab. He consulted with several agricultural chemical companies and served on the editorial boards of several academic journals. He published more than 130 research papers and articles
Among his many awards and accolades, Downer received the FEJ Fry Medal of the Canadian Society of Zoologists in 1990, a Gold Medal from the Entomological Society of Canada in 1991, and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 1992. In 1982 he received the Distinguished Teacher Award. His award citation highlighted his successes in teaching by correspondence and his reputation as an outstanding lecturer.
Downer took early retirement from the University in 1996. In 1997 he was awarded the title Distinguished Professor Emeritus in recognition of his teaching, research and service to the University.
In 1998, Downer was namedin Ireland. He served in that role until 2006.
Join the antimicrobial resistance
By Milana Madzarac. This article wasoriginally published on ݮƵ News.
Unnecessary use and misuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobials are increasing the serious problem of antimicrobial resistance. Over time bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change, and as a result, drug resistance can occur where infections that were previously easily treated become difficult to treat.
Antimicrobial resistance ranks among the top ten global public health threats, according to the.
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) runs annually from November 18 to 24 and promotes better understanding of this issue through global reach, education and training. This year’s theme was centered on preventing antimicrobial resistance together.
Last week across Canada, landmarks were illuminated in the colour blue to mark the end of WAAW.
On November 24, City of Kitchener’s Carl Zehr Square joined the University of ݮƵ School of Pharmacy, a partner in the national WAAW effort, in thefor WAAW illumination program.
“While the world has been focused on adapting to the ongoing presence of COVID-19, another pandemic lurks in the shadows,” says Brett Barrett, Clinical Lecturer and Teaching Fellow at the School of Pharmacy.
“Antimicrobial resistance and its impact on patients is less visible but no less damaging, leading to extended hospital stays and death. In order to preserve the usefulness of antibiotics, healthcare providers need to redouble their antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Our program gives frontline pharmacists and prescribers the tools they need to use antibiotics wisely.”
Together we can help combat antimicrobial resistance and preserve effective treatments for future generations.
For more information
- Visit our resources on antibiotic stewardship
-
Learn more about the Antimicrobial Stewardship in Primary Care Continuing Education Program
ݮƵ student flourishes in the online learning environment
By Janice Cooke,Centre for Extended Learning.
The University of ݮƵ'sJ.D. Leslie Undergraduate Prizeis awarded by theCentre for Extended Learningannually to a graduating student who has achieved a first-class standing and who has earned 50 per centor more of the credits for their undergraduate degree through online courses.
Kassie Harker, this year’s winner, graduated in June 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts, Honours Therapeutic Recreation and a Minor in Psychology.
Kassie believes that “education isn’t linear, it is a fluid and evolving system of building knowledge over one’s lifetime through many experiences.”
When asked about her experience with online learning Kassie says “online courses allow greater flexibility with navigating the various challenges mature students face such as work and family responsibilities by providing opportunities to engage with course requirements during off hours and reduces travel time by being able to access material remotely.”
This $1,000 prize is named for the late James D. Leslie, PhD., who began the University of ݮƵ's Correspondence Program in 1968 (now the Centre for Extended Learning).
Friday's notes
The Games Institute will be hosting a final talk in its Brown Bag Lunch series, and it's a double feature."Feminist and Responsible Design with Drs. Brianna Wiens and Daniel Harley"will feature two presentations: "From IG Grids to IRL Tables: Feminist Design Praxes for Small-Scale Community Building byDr. Brianna Wiensof English Language and Literature, and"A Question of Space: Towards Responsible Narrative Design Questions for Virtual Reality" byDr. Daniel Harley (Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business. The talks take place today from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Games Institute space in East Campus 1. You can watch the event in person at the Games Institute or
The University of ݮƵ Retirees Association (UWRA) will be hosting a holiday receptionon Wednesday, December 7 with President Vivek Goel in attendance. The reception will be held inthe Faculty of Health Expansion building's2ndfloor lobby from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and all ݮƵ retirees are invited.Visit the UWRA events pagefor more details and to register for the holiday reception.
Beyond the Bulletin Episode 147
The latest episode of the Beyond the Bulletin Podcast.PhD candidate Isra Saeed and master’s student Alexandra Ho share their experiences as part of ݮƵ’s delegation at the UN climate change conference, COP27. Six ݮƵ research projects receive $15.8 million to advance science and technology to combat climate change. The Sustainability Office has released its annual report outlining actions and initiatives in support of ݮƵ’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy. And the University and the Canadian Federation of University Women Kitchener-ݮƵ host the annual ceremony of remembrance on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
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).
Faculty, staff, post-doc and graduate student instructorscan find upcoming teaching and learning workshops, self-directed modules and recordings of previous events onCentre for Teaching Excellence Workshops and Events page.
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.
Thehasin-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.
Research Ethics:Find yourself with an ethical question, unsure if your work requires an ethics review, or need advice about putting together a research ethics application? Reach out to one of our friendly staff bybooking a consultationoremailus with your questions.
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.
TheFaculty Association of the University of ݮƵ (FAUW)continues to advocate for its members.for more information.
TheUniversity of ݮƵ Staff Association (UWSA)continues to advocate for its members.Check out the UWSA blogfor more information.
NEW -The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism (EDI-R)works with students, faculty and staff across campus to advance equity and Anti-racism through evidence-based policies, practices and programs.If you have a concern related to Anti-racism and/or equity, please complete ourintake form.
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.
TheOffice 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.
TheݮƵ 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:
Thesupports 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- Thenow 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- Thecovers 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. Theis 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..
Free Staff Workouts,Tuesdays and Thursdays until December 22, 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Bootcamp-style classes in the CIF Field House and PAC. Open to all staff and supported by the Staff Excellence Fund.
Flu shots available at Student Health Pharmacy, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., dial ext. 33784 for info.
,Friday, December 2, 10:30 a.m. to11:45 a.m., PAC Main Gym. Come watch a sitting volleyball exhibition game, meet the athletes, and give the sport a try..
Demystifying Commercialization, Friday, December 2, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., IQC 0101.
by Dr. Eng. Mohamed M. Elkadragy, Friday, December 2, 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., on Zoom.
Games InstituteBrown Bag Talks: Feminist and Responsible Design with Drs. Brianna Wiens and Daniel Harley, Friday, December 2, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., East Campus 1.
Listening to our elders about leisure,a Shaw-Mannell lecture with Karen Fox (professor emerita, University of Alberta), Friday, December 2, 2:30 to4:30 p.m. Please register in advance for this hybrid event.
,Friday,December 2, 7:00 p.m., CIF Arena. Employee Day, Donor Appreciation Day.
Jazz Ensemble: The Canadian Connection, Sunday, December 4, 2:00 p.m. Conrad Grebel Great Hall. Tickets available at the door, $5 students, $10 for others. Reception to follow.
Instrumental Chamber Ensembles, Sunday, December 4, 7:00 p.m. Conrad Grebel Chapel, free admission. Reception to follow.
NEW -Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) for International Students,Tuesday, December 6, 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. ET, Zoom. Registration required.
NEW - Virtual information session for ݮƵ faculty members:Collaborate 2 Commercialize (C2C) Joint Program presented by OCI and NSERC, Tuesday, December 6, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.