- Convocation turns up the heat to 7,350 degrees
- Convocation kicks off with the Faculty of Health ceremony this morning
- The Faculty of Environment ceremony takes place this afternoon
- Discover the power of leadership on Friday with Rola Dagher
- History society issues call for undergraduate research presentations
- Notes on the cusp of Convocation
Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
Convocation turns up the heat to 7,350 degrees
More than 7,300 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be awarded to undergraduate, Master's and PhD graduates as they cross the convocation stage in 14 ceremonies over the next five days as part of the University'sone hundredandtwenty-sixthConvocation celebration.
The Convocation ceremonies will all be held in the Physical Activities Complex, which has been decked out in black and gold for the pomp and circumstance. You canwatch the Convocation livestream this weekon the Convocation website.
The Convocation ceremonies follow a pattern developed over more than 60 years since the University's first convocation was held in what was then Seagram Stadium in June 1960.The graduating students will come in first, filling up the main body of the hall.
After the graduandshave come in, the academic procession will begin. A new tradition begins this year with the ceremonial Eagle Staff leading the academic procession. The staff isa symbolic representation of the continuous presence of Indigenous peoples, and will becarriedin by an Eagle Staff carrier. Next, a selected faculty member will carry themace, a traditional symbol of the University’s authority. Then, faculty members enter, walking two by two, dressed in their academic finery.The final party to arrive is the Chancellor’s party.
As the ceremonial head of the University of ݮƵ, the Chancellor presides over convocation ceremonies every June and October and awards all degrees, diplomas and certificates, including honorary degrees. The Chancellor also offers an inspirational message for the graduands.
14 exceptional students have been selected as valedictorians for each convocation ceremony.Check out their stories on ݮƵ News.
Following each convocation ceremony, graduates and their guests are invited to the BMH Green to celebrate with their classmates, professors and family members who supported them through their ݮƵ student experience.
The June and October Convocation ceremonies form the pinnacle of the University's academic calendar, and this week's ritual celebrationrepresents the culmination of years of effort for students, faculty and staff alike as the newest members of ݮƵ's alumni family take their first steps off the Convocation stage as graduates of this institution.
Congratulations to all ݮƵ graduands, their families and supporters.
Convocation kicks off with the Faculty of Health ceremony this morning
School of Public Health Sciences Professor Chris Perlman carries the mace in 2018.
First across the stage are the graduands from the Faculty of Health. 550undergraduates, 54Master's, and 22 PhD candidates will receive their degrees at today's 10:00 a.m. ceremony.
Thespecial guest speakerat the Faculty of Health's convocation ceremony isDr. Scott Leatherdale. Dr. Leatherdale is a professor in the School of Public Health Sciences. He is a Cancer Care Ontario Research Chair, a CIHR-PHAC Chair in Applied Public Health Research, and a University Research Chair at the University of ݮƵ. Before coming to ݮƵ, he was a Scientist at Cancer Care Ontario, responsible for leading Ontario’s cancer prevention system. For the past 15 years since joining ݮƵ, Leatherdale has developed and led the COMPASS System, the world’s largest and most comprehensive youth-focused cancer prevention and mental health learning system. He was an inaugural winner of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Trailblazer Award in Population Health Solutions and is the first (and only) Canadian researcher to be awarded Fellow status in the American Academy of Health Behavior. His proudest achievement is being the father of two fun and energetic little boys, Thomas and James.
Terry Stewartwill be namedHonorary Member of the University. Terry Stewart’s involvement with the University of ݮƵ spanned nearly 50 years. He completed BA and MA degrees in Recreation and Leisure Studies in 1975 and 1976, respectively. He started his role as a research associate in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies in 1981, followed by microcomputer laboratory manager and coordinator of the Leisure Studies Bank in 1984. His role changed to coordinator of computing in 1991, then manager of information technology in 2005, and director of information technology in 2012. Stewart retired in 2015.
ղ徱ٴǰKatie Ivancicwill deliver the valedictory address.
Kendra Elizabeth Fortin, Master's graduate in Recreation and Leisure Studies, will receive theGovernor General's Academic Gold Medal, which is awarded to the student with the highest standing in a Master's program.
Jackie Doreen Zehr, PhD graduate in Kinesiology, will receive theGovernor General's Academic Gold Medal, which is awarded to the student with the highest standing in a doctoral program.
The Faculty of Environment ceremony takes place this afternoon
At the 2:30 p.m ceremony this afternoon, the Faculty of Environment takes centre stage. 345 undergraduates, 95Master's, and 22PhD candidates will receive their degrees.
ճspecial guest speakerat the Faculty of Environment's ceremony isDr.Raphael Ayambire.As the University of ݮƵ’s 2021 Caivan International Experience Postdoctoral Fellow,Dr. Raphael Ayambire brings a unique perspectiveto the challenge of planning and building the world's future cities. After growing up in rural Ghana supporting his parents’ agricultural activities,he graduated with a BSc in development planning in Ghana, then journeyed to Canada to completea planning PhD at ݮƵ. Ayambire’s lived experience and his education on two continents,has shaped his passionate vision for future cities that can respond to the climate crisis and transformative new technologies while ensuring social equity makes these communities truly sustainable. Ayambire will continue working toward this goal as an assistant professor in the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture, Department of City Planning.
ղ徱ٴǰBennett Paul Gallantwill deliver the valedictory address.
Dr. Barbara Schumacherwill be named Honorary Member of the University. Dr. Schumachershepherded the campus community through serious health challenges, including cases of tuberculosis and outbreaksof meningitis and Swine Flu, while championing progressive and equitable programs that enhanced the lives of thousands of students, faculty and staff during her 39 year career at the University. Promoting mental well-being, tackling sexual harassment, and establishing the Occupational Health office for staff were just a few of her initiatives. In addition, Schumacher’s efforts in promoting better health went beyond ݮƵ and benefitted people at universities across Ontario. And after retiring as ݮƵ’s medical director of Health Services in 2015, she established a fund to help refugees continue their university education.
Carly Roseanne Zander,Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Honours Geography and Environmental Management graduate, will receive the Governor General's Academic Silver Medal,which isawarded to students with the highest standing in an undergraduate degree program.
Discover the power of leadership on Friday with Rola Dagher
A message from the Faculty of Engineering.
Join ݮƵ Engineering for an inspired conversation with RolaDagher, Dell Technologies' Global Channel Chief and 2023 University of ݮƵ honorary doctorate recipient.
Rola’s work in the global technology sector has revolutionized business and redefined what it means to be a leader. Fuelled by her ambition to drive meaningful change, Rola’s formidable experience makes for a great story – one that she tells best.
This is your chance to hear Rola’s insights into how transformative leadership can ignite positive change, triumph over adversity and reshape the future. This interactive conversation will leave you inspired, empowered and equipped with actionable strategies to elevate your own leadership capabilities.
The event takes place Friday, June 16 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the E7 event space on the second floor of Engineering 7.Register today onݮƵ Engineering’s event page.
History society issues call for undergraduate research presentations
A message from theUniversity of ݮƵ History Society.
Attention all UݮƵ historians and scholars! The History Society is thrilled to announce a new project called"Historical Inquiries: Illuminating the Past Through Student Symposium,”andwe want your participation.
We invite all ݮƵ historical-minded students interested in showcasing their work and research by sharing their insights with their peers in a virtual symposium. This is a unique opportunity, unlike any other, to spotlight your academic research and interests while contributing to the rich tapestry of historical knowledge at ݮƵ.
In a 10-minute presentation, we ask that you present an original slide deck or read an original piece of writing on a historical topic of your choosing and then answer a few questions from the audience. This does not have to be something brand new and can be a presentation/reading of an assignment submitted for a grade that you are very proud of. Either way, we want to display your work and passion and provide a forum for engagement and learning.
The event will be hybrid and heldThursday, July 27,via Zoom and in the MacKirdy Reading Room (HH 117) at 5:00 p.m.
Research themes
We welcome research presentations from a wide range of historical topics and periods. Whether you have delved into ancient civilizations, medieval societies, modern revolutions, or any other captivating era. Here are some suggested research themes (but not limited to):
- Political movements and ideologies
- Social and cultural transformations
- Economic systems and trade routes
- Gender, race, and identity studies
- War, conflict, and Diplomacy
- Historical methodology and sources
If you are interested or want to come and watch your friends showcase their passion, please fill out the form below with your name and contact information, year, and the topic you will present if you are presenting and indicating if you will be attending in person or virtuallyby June 23. While we cannot facilitate everybody's presentation despite our want to do so, all are encouraged to submit proposals to present.
We eagerly await your contributions.
Event timing:July 27, 2023, 5:00 p.m.,via Zoom or in theMacKirdy Reading Room (HH 117).For any questions contact:uwhistory@gmail.com..
Notes on the cusp of Convocation
Photo credit: Eric Mah, School of Accounting and Finance.
Hundreds of nativetrees, shrubs, and wildflowers were planted across campus on May 30 and 31as the Sustainability Office and Grounds hosted twotreeplantings with the campus community.
"As part of campus naturalization efforts, 45 volunteers (staff, faculty, and students) planted a variety of native and ecologically appropriate species across parts of main and North campus, including 200trees/shrubs and 200 wildflowers," says a note from the Sustainability Office. "These native plants replace land recently cleared of invasive species and will provide important habitat for local pollinators and wildlife."
"A big thank you to all the hardworking volunteers who braved the sun and heat, especially our Green Office teams. Stay tuned for moreplantingevents in the fall through the monthlyor theSustainability Office website."
This project was funded by ݮƵ’sSustainability Action Fundand the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.
"Let's have some fun while learning English!" says a note from the Writing and Communication Centre (WCC). "Joinus for ourEnglish Conversation Circlesand practice your speaking skills with fellow language learners!"
Round one of the Conversation Circles kicked off on May 24 and runs until June 29, and the second round will begin on July 12 and run until August 17.
The circles come 'round every Wednesday and Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in SCH 228F.
Reminder: change your WatIAM password if you haven't already
The deadline for employees to change their WatIAM passwords has passed and accounts will begin to be locked. If you have been locked out, please contactInformation Systems and Technology (IST)or your Faculty IT helpdesk to regain access. Students and alumni must change their WatIAM passwords by June 22.
Link of the day
When and Where
is now open.
Spring and Summer camps available for Boys and Girls ages 5-18. Baseball, Basketball, Football, Volleyball, Hockey and Multi-Sport and Games..
Fitness andPersonal Training -Registrations now open forand, as well as a.
Student Health Pharmacyin the basement of the ݮƵ Centre is now offering Covidbooster shots (Pfizer and Moderna)and flu shots. Call 519-746-4500 or extension 33784 for an appointment. Walk-ins always welcome.
Spring 2023 Convocation ceremonies, Tuesday, June 13 to Saturday, June 17, Physical Activities Complex.
NEW -The Farcas Lab: Where Urology Meets Engineering, Tuesday, June 13, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m.,E7 4043.
NEW -, Tuesday, June 13, 3:00 p.m., Grad House.
Guidance for an effective application for a Master and PhD -Electrical Engineering, Wednesday, June 14, 10:00 a.m., Zoom.
Food Truck Wednesdaybrought you by UW 2025 ݮƵ, Wednesday, June 14, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Arts Quad.
Land Skills for Wellness and Sustainability Project,, Wednesday, June 14, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Part-Time Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology Information Session, Wednesday, June 14, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., online.
Pride Movie Night, "But I'm a Cheerleader,"Wednesday, June 14, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., LHI 1621.
, Wednesday, June 14, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Laurel Creek fire pit.
, Thursday, June 15, 12 noon to 1:30 p.m., UTD 164.
Thursday,June 15, 12 noon to 1:30 p.m., UTD 164.
Garlic Mustard Pull, Thursday, June 15, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., DWE parking lot.
, Friday, June 16, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m., SLC Lower Atrium Multipurpose Room.
Rock Your Thesis Part 1: Plan your Project, Friday, June 16, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Engineering presents Discover the Power of Leadership with Rola Dagher, Friday, June 16, 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., E7 event space, 2ndFloor Engineering 7.
Lupina Foundation Postdoctoral Research showcase, Monday, June 19, 12 noon to 2:00 p.m., HH 373.
NEW -, Monday, June 19, 12 noon to 5:00 p.m., DC Green.
NEW - Senate meeting, Monday, June 19, 3:30 p.m., NH 3407.
NEW -Sustainable Aviation with Dr. Suzanne Kearns, Tuesday, June 20, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m., E7 4043.
WISE Public Lecture,“Understanding the potential and challenges of DERs in Chile” by Daniel Eduardo Olivares Quero, Associate Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Sciences, and Director, Center for Energy Transition (CENTRA), Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI)., Tuesday, June 20, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., EIT Third floor 3142., In-person andon Zoom.today.
Polishing the Eagle Feather, Tuesday, June 20, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., BMH courtyard.
NEW -,Tuesday, June 20, 3:00 p.m., Grad House.
Retirement celebration for Tina Roberts, Tuesday, June 20, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., GEDI (East Campus 5, 2nd floor).Registration form.
NEW -Restorative Justice in Education,Tuesday, June 20, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (doors open at 4:00 p.m., Conrad Grebel University College Great Hall.by June 16.
Food Truck Wednesdaybrought you by UW 2025 ݮƵ, Wednesday, June 21, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Arts Quad.
Universal Design for Learning & Wellbeing - Reflections and Pathways Forward,Wednesday, June 21,1:00 p..m to2:30 p.m.
Land Skills for Wellness and Sustainability Project,,Wednesday, June 21, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Queer Trivia Night,Wednesday, June 21, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., SLC main floor multipurpose room.
Deadline to change your WatIAM password, Thursday, June 22..
, Thursday, June 22, 12 noon to 1:30 p.m., UTD 164.
NEW -, Thursday, June 22, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m, Glow office, SLC.
Graduate Studies Fair 2023, Thursday, June 22, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Engineering Event space (E7 second floor).
NEW -, Thursday, June 22, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Laurel Creek fire pit.
NEW -, Sunday, June 25, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
NEW -Bike Fair, Tuesday, June 27, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Arts Quad.
NEW -, Tuesday, June 27, 3:00 p.m., Grad House.
Food Truck Wednesdaybrought you by UW 2025 ݮƵ, Wednesday, June 28, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Arts Quad.
NEW -, Wednesday, June 28, 1:30 p.m., Grad House Green.
Ozhawa Anung Kwe/Yellow Star Woman (Teddy Syrette): 2Spirit & LGBTQ+ Pride, Thursday, June 29, 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon,Faculty of Health Expansion Building, Room 1689.
NEW –Rock Your Thesis 2: Starting to write, Friday, June 30, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
When and Where to get support
Check out the support listings for faculty, staff and students.