Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
Getting Convocation down to a Science
The Faculty of Science is holding two convocation ceremonies today.899 undergraduates, 52 Master's, and 40 PhD candidates will receive their degrees.
You canwatch the Convocation livestreambeginning at 10:00 a.m. today.
10:00 a.m.
Yanxin Wangwill receive anHonorary Doctor of Scienceand address convocation.Dr. Wang is professor of Hydrogeology and Environmental Engineering at the China University of Geosciences (CUG) in Wuhan. He is also the president of CUG and head of the State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology. Wang’s research has produced major advances in understanding of the sources, fate, and transport of contaminants in groundwater systems. Wang spearheaded the developmentof innovative remediation and management strategies that protect millions of people from contaminated drinking water. Under Wang’s visionary and effective leadership, CUG has become one of China’s top institutions in science and technology.
ValedictorianTyler Jingwill deliver the valedictory address.
2:30 p.m.
Dr. Mark Willcoxwill receive anHonorary Doctor of Scienceand address convocation. Dr. Willcoxis a medical microbiologist and Professor in the School of Optometry and Vision Science at UNSW, Sydney, Australia. His laboratory focuses on understanding the etiology of adverse events and comfort during contact lens wear.His research includes examining mechanisms of adhesion of ocular microbes and the development of novel antimicrobial surfaces. He also studies tear film proteomics and lipidomics, their relationship to contact lens comfort and how tears may serve as biomarkers for diabetes and cancer. Recent awards include the Korb Award from the American Optometric Association (2020) and the Barry Collin Medal from Optometry Australia (2017).
ValedictorianAhmed Adelkaderwill deliver the valedictory address.
Engineering ceremonies begin this evening and conclude tomorrow
Honorary degree recipient Dr. Joseph W. Tomecko (right) with Roy Hoffman and Robert Heinz at the University of ݮƵ's 8th convocation ceremony in May 1964.
The Faculty of Engineering will have four convocation ceremonies over two days, beginning this evening. It's go big or go home for the Faculty of Engineering, with 1,408 undergraduates,472 Master's, and 90 PhD candidates crossing the stage and receiving their degrees on Friday and Saturday.
You canwatch the Convocation livestreamtonight and tomorrow.
Friday, June 16, 6:30 p.m.
Dr. Cristina Amonwill receive anHonorary Doctor of Engineeringand address convocation.Dr. Amon is the Distinguished Alumni Professor and former dean at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering.Under her visionary leadership, U of T’s engineering program has become a global hubfor interdisciplinary research and education and a shining example of diversity and inclusion for women, People of Colour and Indigenous peoples in the engineering profession. She has been elected a fellow or honorary member of all major professional societies in her field. A pioneer in computational fluid dynamics for thermal designs subject to multidisciplinary constraints, Amon’s research is in thermal transport in nanoscale semiconductors, energy systems, EV batteries and biomedical devices.
Muhammad ShehryrarKhan,PhD graduate in Mechanical and Mechatroncis Engineering,will receive theGovernor General's Academic Gold Medal, which is awarded to the student with the highest standing in a doctoral program.
ValedictorianToluwalope Wrightwill deliver the valedictory address.
Saturday, June 17, 10:00 a.m.
Rola Dagherwill receive anHonorary Doctor of Engineeringand address convocation.Rola Dagher, a leading figure in the Canadian technology sector, has made it her missionto empower those around her. Immigrating to Canada from war-torn Lebanon with an infant in the 1990s, Dagher worked as a retail sales clerk before becoming the president of Cisco Systems Canada and currently as Dell Technologies’ global channel chief. Rola sees diversity as the foundation for building a high-performance workforce and is a vanguard of inclusive excellence. Dagher has been named a WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, the Women in Communications and Technology (WCT) Woman of the Year and is an RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award winner.
Dr. George Freemanwill be named anHonorary Member of the University.Dr. Freeman is a retired electrical and computer engineering professor at the University of ݮƵ. Freeman established a sterling reputation as an outstanding engineering educator throughout his career. He served as electrical and computer engineering’s teaching and learning champion from 2018 until his retirement in 2022. Freeman’s work promoted evidence-based practices for improved learning outcomes, mental health and community building. He also received the Dedicated Service Award from the Canadian Association of University Teachers for his exceptional service to their academic staff associations. Freeman’s research interests include signal processing for digital communications, optimal lossless data compression algorithms,and storage and recognition applications in speech and image coding.
Valedictorian Maya Bishopwill deliver the valedictory address.
Saturday, June 17, 2:30 p.m.
ճspecial guest speakerfor the Faculty of Engineering's Saturday afternoon convocation isDr. Lisa Aultman-Hall. Dr. Aultman-Hall is professor and chair of Systems Design Engineering. Before joining the University of ݮƵ, she served as a professor of Civil Engineering at the Universities of Kentucky, Connecticut and Vermont. Aultman-Hall’s research focuses on sustainable transportation systems, especially methods to collect unique databases for modelling and analysis of long-distancetravel, transportation sector emissions, network resiliency, streetscape design and non-motorized transportation. A common thread in her work isthe pursuit of accessibility metrics that speak to equity. She served several leadership roles at the interdisciplinary University of Vermont Transportation Research Center and as the associate director of the National Center for Sustainable Transportation with the University of California Davis.
Nick NolanGharabaghi,Honours Nanotechnology Engineering, Co-operative Program, will receive theGovernor General's Academic Silver Medal, which isawarded to students with the highest standing in an undergraduate degree program.
ValedictorianYonael Debebewill deliver the valedictory address.
Saturday, June 17, 6:30 p.m.
Dr. John Buzacottwill receive anHonorary Doctor of Engineeringand address convocation.Dr. Buzacott, a former management sciences engineering professor, is a pioneering figurein production and operations management. Buzacott’s work in developing a unified framework and rigorous scientific foundationof the approaches currently used in the design, planning and control of manufacturing and service systems has inspired scholars worldwide. His innovative use of stochastic models to explain many phenomena occurring in manufacturing and service organizations has also distinguished him as an exceptional researcher and educator. As a founding member of the ݮƵ Management of Integrated Manufacturing Systems research group at the University of ݮƵ, his contributionsto manufacturing analysis and modelling work continues to be globally recognized.
Valedictorian Matthew Linehanwill deliver the valedictory address.
Sustainability Action Fund open for applications until June 30
A message from the Sustainability Office.
Have a project idea to advancesustainabilityon campus? ճܲٲԲٲپDzܲԻis now accepting applications for projects that will work towards the University’sԱDzԳԳٲܲٲԲٲ⳧ٰٱ. Projects can include infrastructure improvements, campaigns, or activities to increase awareness ofsustainabilityissues on campus, and programming to support sustainable behaviours.
Applicants can request between $2,000 and $30,000 infunding this term, and can be led by staff, students, or faculty members.
Some examples of past projects that have successfully receivedfunding include:
- Reusable containers marketing;
- Sustainabilityliteracy conference;
- Standardized waste receptacles;
- Arts/Environment gardens signage; and
- Electric landscaping equipment pilot.
Applications will now be accepted on an ongoing basis and will be reviewed as part of two intake rounds.The deadline for spring 2023 intake is Friday, June 30.Full details and instructions are available on theܲٲԲٲپDzܲԻwebpage.
Instructors awarded for exceptional online teaching and course design
A message from the Centre for Extended Learning (CEL).
The University of ݮƵ’sOnline Teaching Awardsrecognize teaching and course design excellence in fully online undergraduate or graduate-level courses and programs. ճCentre for Extended Learning(CEL) and the Office of the Associate Vice-President, Academic congratulate Megan McCarthy, Amanda Garcia and Anton Mosunov, winners of the 2022 awards.
2022 Excellence in Online Course Design Award
MATH 106 - Applied Linear Algebra 1,created by Amanda Garcia and Anton Mosunov.
This award recognizes exemplary courses that meet or exceed the Quality Guidelines for University of ݮƵ Online Courses. Amanda and Anton worked collaboratively with CEL in the design and development.
MATH 106 is an intensive first-year course, taken by students studying a range of disciplines, that provides them with an abundance of opportunities to learn mathematics by doing mathematics. Students can demonstrate their achievement in diverse ways, with encouragement to practice and review rich amounts of detailed feedback.
2022 Excellence in Online Teaching Award
Megan McCarthy, PSYCH 101 - Introductory Psychology and ARTS 140 -The Science of Happiness instructor.
This award recognizes course instructors who exemplify a high standard of teaching in one or more of ݮƵ's fully-online courses.
In their nominations for Megan students repeatedly underscore her kindness and compassion and that they really felt she cared about each and every one of them. They describe how she has created interesting course materials that make learning enjoyable and easier, while still challenging them intellectually.
Beyond the Bulletin episode 156
The latest episode of the Beyond the Bulletin podcast.Tracelyn Cornelius, director of inclusive communications, discusses Pride Month and other initiatives at ݮƵ expressing solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. June is also National Indigenous History Month. An art contest encourages students to create an original piece of art that expresses their interpretation of consent. And the Sustainability Action Fund is accepting applications for projects that will work towards the University’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy.
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.
, 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.
, Monday, June 19, 12 noon to 5:00 p.m., DC Green.
Senate meeting, Monday, June 19, 3:30 p.m., NH 3407.
Sustainable Aviation with Dr. Suzanne Kearns, Tuesday, June 20, 12 noon to 1:00 p.m., E7 4043.
Dr. Kayla Murphy andRobin Stadelbauer: Land and Territory Acknowledgements, Tuesday, June 20, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., EXP 1689.
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.
,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.
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.
, 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).
, Thursday, June 22, 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Laurel Creek fire pit.
, Sunday, June 25, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Bike Fair, Tuesday, June 27, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Arts Quad.
, 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.
, 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.
Rock Your Thesis 2: Starting to write, Friday, June 30, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Canada Day holiday, Monday, July 3, most University operations closed.
Food Truck Wednesdaybrought you by UW 2025 ݮƵ,Wednesday, July 5, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Arts Quad.
2SLGBTQ+ faculty and staff social, Thursday, July 6, 3:30 p.m.,LHS 1646.
, Friday, July 7, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., SLC Student Lounge.
Dissertation Boot Camp, Tuesday, July 11, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
SOMMeRS: Southern Ontario Medical MicroRobotics Symposium, Tuesday, July 11, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Engineering 7 second floor.
, Tuesday, July 11, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, July 15.
When and Where to get support
Check out the support listings for faculty, staff and students.
PhD oral defences
Environment, Resources and Sustainability.Ella Kari Muhl,“Co-production of knowledge for indicators, otters and ecosystem-based management”. Supervisor, Derek Armitage.Available upon request from theFaculty of Environment, Administrator, Graduate Studies. Oral defence Wednesday, June 21, 10:00 a.m.
Psychology.Sydney Waring, "Relational Body Image: Developing an Understanding of How and Why Body Image Changes Across Specific Relationships." Supervisor, Dr.Allison Kelly. Thesis available upon request from the Faculty of Arts, Graduate Studies and Research Officer. Oral defence Thursday, June 22, 1:00 p.m., PAS 2464 and hybrid.
Physics and Astronomy.Jack Davis, “Wigner negativity on the sphere.” Supervisors, Dr. Robert Mann, Dr. Shonini Ghose. Please visit the Faculty of ScienceThesis Submission Noticeswebsite for details on requesting a copy. Oral defence Monday, June 26, 10:00 a.m., QNC 2101.
Physics and Astronomy.Kensuke Gallock Yoshimura, “Correlation harvesting in the presence of Unruh and Hawking effects.” Supervisor, Dr. Robert Mann. Please visit the Faculty of ScienceThesis Submission Noticeswebsite for details on requesting a copy. Oral defence Tuesday, June 27, 9:30 a.m., PHY 308.