��ݮ��Ƶ News - Arts

Champions of change

Bernice Ma — Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Meet six world-class researchers, alumni and students who are applying boundary-breaking approaches to redefine sports, recreation and tourism

Dr. Michelle Rutty

As Canadians contend with climate-induced environmental changes like wildfires, flooding and melting glaciers, Dr. Michelle Rutty (MES ’10, PhD ’14) has been exploring the relationship between environmental changes and the global tourism sector.

Her research is among the first to use the power of virtual reality (VR) technologies to provide immersive, realistic experiences that enable communities to better understand their current and future climatic risks.

As director of the deTOUR Lab, Rutty supports the use of VR environments where users experience a destination before or after climate-related disasters impact it. “We’ve developed VR environments for ski resorts and golf courses that are experiencing record warm conditions and drought and are currently working on a VR simulation of glacial retreat in Jasper National Park,” Rutty said.

Recognizing that visual content is more persuasive than textual narratives for shifting emotional values, Rutty leverages VR as a public engagement tool to promote dialogue around climate-induced environmental change. “Visual media can both simplify the complexity of climate science while eliciting emotional responses,” she explained.

Rutty is committed to methodological innovation that accelerates environmental action in the tourism sector. Her scholarship has been recognized for research excellence with awards from around the world.

Greg Mittler

When a group of ��ݮ��Ƶ’s Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) students pitched the idea of introducing video games and esports at ��ݮ��Ƶ back in 2018, few imagined it would grow to be the largest network of its kind in Canada.

Under the leadership of Greg Mittler (BA ’14), the first full-time esports coordinator at a Canadian university, the program has grown to approximately 60 esports athletes who compete in several collegiate-level titles across North America.

Intent on making space for inclusivity in the sports world, Mittler shared that the initiative is also one of the first to have a marginalized genders team.

“We’re expanding into the community at large, focusing on more comprehensive goals with the ��ݮ��Ƶ Region Esports Commission and the University’s Interdisciplinary Network for Esports. Our ambition is to grow to be a significant influence in the country,” he said.

Last year, in collaboration with Conestoga College, Mittler and his team hosted WaterLAN — an esports tournament — where 16 schools came to the region to compete. The two-day event generated more than $75,000 in economic impact.

In 2024, Mittler’s team more than doubled those numbers, with help from approximately 50 student staff and volunteers that organized programming for thousands of students.

Christina Sullivan

During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Christina Sullivan (BASc ’23) was introduced to the world of Formula 1 (F1) by her sister Veronica through the Netflix series Drive to Survive, and was instantly captivated by the sport. When her co-op term was cancelled due to the pandemic, Sullivan channelled her new passion into an academic project on F1 cars.

Shortly after, when her social media algorithm pushed an ad for an industrial placement at Williams Racing in the U.K., she applied and was thrilled to secure a one-year contract.

Today, as a full-time wind tunnel systems engineer with the company, Sullivan’s work ranges from designing and fabricating printed circuit boards and electrical harnesses to developing data acquisition systems and ensuring wind tunnel data accuracy.

“My main responsibility is the development and maintenance of our F1 wind tunnel model. All the aerodynamic developments that are seen on the car during races are first seen on this model in the wind tunnel,” she added.

Sullivan’s proudest achievement is leading the electrical design of the new wind tunnel model that Williams will test for the 2026 F1 season. She says that working with many multidisciplinary teams on bespoke systems and innovative control networks was an extremely rewarding experience.

Dr. Daniel Scott

The future of tourism and sports events like the Olympics are highly influenced by global change. That’s why Dr. Daniel Scott’s (MA ’93) research focuses on the transition of the tourism sector to a low-carbon economy and its adaptation to the complex impacts of a changing climate.

In a recent study commissioned by the International Olympic Committee to increase understanding of potential host cities in a warmer world, Scott’s research revealed that only 52 of 93 potential Olympic Winter Games host locations will remain climate-reliable by the 2050s and just 46 by the 2080s.

The outlook is more troubling for the Paralympic Winter Games, with only 22 climate-reliable sites by the 2050s and 16 by the 2080s. “Climate change is altering the geography of winter sports and is a growing threat to the cultural legacy of the Olympic Winter Games,” Scott said.

Still, believing that tourism can be a global force for good, he is committed to advancing global tourism that is compatible with planetary boundaries. As a leading scholar in the field, Scott’s research has been cited in more than 550 policy documents in more than 30 countries and by multiple international government organizations.

Haley Baxter

With her mom as her soccer coach and her dad a strong advocate for women’s sports, Haley Baxter’s (PhD in progress) research on women in volunteer sport coaching was greatly influenced by her parents.

Recognizing that there is little research in this field, her work aims to fill the gap. “My research looks at how to create and support pathways for young girls to become volunteer coaches,” Baxter explained.

Through meaningful engagement with club leaders, coaches and youth, her research highlights the lack of specific targets, strategies and gender-based initiatives for recruiting women and girls to coach.

Noting that club leaders recognize the need for intentional recruitment, she found they also feel unsupported by sports governing bodies, most of which prioritize high-performance coaching instead.

Baxter’s findings underscore the need for targeted recruitment strategies and better support systems to engage women and girls in volunteer coaching roles. She hopes her research helps the sport system recognize the importance of supporting gender-based initiatives at the community level of sport.

Dr. Kristine Dalton

Dr. Kristine Dalton (OD ’07, MSc ’10) is a distinguished leader in sports vision and concussion rehabilitation, with a remarkable track record in Paralympic winter sports.

In 2014, she founded the Sports Vision Clinic at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ to help athletes improve their performance. After seeing many athletes with vision problems after a concussion, Dalton teamed up with Dr. Tammy Labreche to launch a specialized service focused on treating patients with various brain injuries.

“Our team works collaboratively with physicians, optometrists, physiotherapists, athletic therapists and other health-care providers in the community to support the multidisciplinary care patients with brain injury need in their recoveries,” she said.

In 2015, Dalton pioneered a research project that focused on understanding how athletes use their vision to ski. Her research revolutionized classification rules for Para Alpine and Para Nordic skiing, ensuring fair competition for athletes with vision impairments.

In collaboration with the International Paralympic Committee, World Para Snow Sports and the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, the groundbreaking work has expanded global eligibility for these sports.

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Strategies for success: Building a strong, supportive network

Bernice Ma — Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Jennifer Lee, vice-chair at Deloitte Canada, shares six practical tips to build impactful connections

Jennifer Lee (BA ’00), vice-chair and senior partner at Deloitte Canada, believes that strong networks and relationships are key to advancing gender equality and empowering women in the workplace.  

Jennifer Lee (BA ’00)
Vice-chair and senior partner, Deloitte Canada

One of Lee’s standout initiatives is Asian Tiger Moms (ATMs), a nationwide platform for Asian C-suite leaders in the business community. Co-founded by Lee, ATMs evolved from a women’s networking group into a game-changing network supporting individuals in balancing career, family and personal growth. The group redefines its name as a symbol of resilience and success, embracing a mindset of abundance and growth. “Asians are often told to keep their heads down and work hard, but that only leads to middle management — not the C-suite,” Lee explained.

Building on the success of ATMs, Lee helped launch the Asian Impact Maker C-suite community across Canada and the U.S., fostering critical business connections among Asian leaders. “Doing business together is key to building trust and connection,” she said. 

Lee’s journey from ��ݮ��Ƶ co-op student to senior leader underscores the value of these meaningful relationships. She shares six practical tips to help build connections and leverage networks for lasting impact. 

Adopt an abundance mindset 

Lee stresses the importance of approaching networking with an abundance mindset. “When someone operates with a scarcity mindset, they tend to act in ways that can undermine relationships,” she said. This mindset fosters generosity and collaboration, enabling people to help others without expecting immediate returns. It’s an approach that builds trust and creates a supportive community that thrives on shared success. 

Nurture existing relationships 

Networking isn’t just about meeting new people — it’s about nurturing relationships. “Your classmates, colleagues and friends are part of your network,” Lee said. She emphasizes staying connected and adding value to these relationships. By maintaining trust and mutual respect, your network becomes a lasting asset. Lee prioritizes regular check-ins with her global and local connections, trying to keep relationships strong in both virtual and in-person settings. 

Define your personal brand 

“You are who you spend time with,” Lee said, emphasizing that a network reflects your values, and a strong personal brand is key to building connections. “Why does someone want to talk to you? Why do you want to talk to them?” she asked. You can open doors to new opportunities by aligning your actions, communication and presence with your identity. Lee suggests thinking about how you introduce yourself and the five key phrases that define your brand. 

Be thoughtful about your time 

“Time is finite, so plan it purposefully,” Lee advised. “If you don’t plan your time, someone else will.” She recommends scheduling activities that reflect priorities, whether family, work or personal growth. Despite a packed schedule that includes a demanding career, board roles and her children’s sports commitments, Lee emphasizes that thoughtful time management helps you focus on what matters. 

Seek out and build trust 

Trust is essential in any meaningful relationship, personal or professional. “Business gets done with people you trust,” Lee said. Build trust by being reliable, transparent and empathetic. Listen carefully, value others’ perspectives and meet their needs. Strong, trust-based connections foster lasting partnerships. “At a recent Deloitte leadership off-site, we focused on empathetic leadership in an AI-driven world — human interaction and judgement are essential leadership attributes.” 

Think about your legacy 

Lee believes every decision should be guided by purpose. “Ask yourself, ‘What legacy will I leave?’ and let that vision shape your actions,” she said. Whether mentoring, volunteering or championing causes, your legacy is built on the doors you open for others. For Lee, this means creating value for clients, developing future leaders, supporting underrepresented communities, and with her husband, raising two global citizens committed to making the world better. 

Jennifer Lee is the vice-chair and a senior partner at Deloitte. Her clients include F100 and mid-market consumer clients, and she advises on mergers and acquisitions and value creation strategy.  She has worked and lived in Asia, Europe and the U.S. in both industry and consulting roles. She also volunteers in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, restructuring microfinance institutions to increase access to microcredit and reduce poverty. She lives in Toronto with her husband and two sons.  

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Changing the way people explore Africa

Bernice Ma — Tue, 13 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Eyitemi Popo discusses her role as a founder and shares her vision for transformation and collective growth in a women-driven economy

Eyitemi Popo (MDEI ’16)
Founder, Girls Trip Tours

Eyitemi Popo (MDEI ’16) wants to change how people explore Africa. That’s why she founded Girls Trip Tours, a travel experience designed to empower and connect future leaders. She started the venture shortly after graduating with a Master of Digital Experience Innovation (MDEI) from ��ݮ��Ƶ’s Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business. She is now a Forbes-listed social entrepreneur who is invested in products, services and ecosystems that help women thrive.

Why did you choose the MDEI program?

When I discovered the program, I was thrilled to find something predesigned at the master’s level that seamlessly integrated the creative and the technical. It felt like a natural next step, and it was exciting to join a community of like-minded individuals who valued both innovation and entrepreneurship. The program provided an opportunity to deepen my understanding of using design as a tool to develop scalable business models and lead innovative projects with real-world impact.

Why was creating a travel experience for women important to you?

The idea for Girls Trip Tours came to me after a year of continuous travel. As someone who had lived in several countries and traveled extensively growing up, I noticed a gap in the tourism industry – few experiences focused on creating safe, intentional spaces for women, especially Black women, to explore and thrive. I wanted travel to be more than ticking places off a bucket list. I wanted it to be about making memories the soul would remember long after the mind forgets.

“We’re not just running trips but creating a platform for transformation and collective growth.”

— Eyitemi Popo (MDEI ’16)

Six years after founding the company, what still surprises or inspires you?

What continues to inspire me is seeing the connections formed during these trips. Women leave with lifelong friendships, newfound confidence and sometimes even business collaborations. It’s a reminder that we’re not just running trips but creating a platform for transformation and collective growth.

What surprises me is how much this mission resonates globally. Women from all walks of life are seeking spaces where they can feel celebrated, supported and at ease. That universal desire has shaped the way I think about expanding the company.

First Girls Trip Tour trip to Ghana

Looking ahead, what do you envision for Girls Trip Tours?

From the bustling city of Nairobi to the tranquil vineyards outside Cape Town, Girls Trip Tours is transforming how people experience Africa by creating an alternative tourism economy called Iranti. Powered by women, Iranti shifts tourism from surface-level sightseeing to deep cultural immersion and social impact. 

By partnering with locally owned, women-led businesses, we ensure that tourism dollars directly empower African women and girls.

Each curated experience – from walking through South Africa’s only fully Black-owned wine farm to safaris led by Africa’s first all-women guide team – fosters meaningful connections, uplifts communities and inspires travellers long after their journey ends.

Looking ahead, we aim to expand our impact through B2B partnerships so that other organizations can leverage our ecosystem to curate conscious-by-default travel. Each trip booked with us will continue to sponsor a girl’s education for one school year, creating positive changes that uplift entire communities.

A Girls Trip Tour with safari guide team in Botswana

Can you explain the impact mentorship has had on you and why it’s a priority in your work?

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my journey, both as a mentee and mentor. Throughout my career, having access to mentors helped me navigate the workplace, particularly as a young Black woman in industries where representation remains scarce like luxury beauty, wealth management, deep tech, artificial intelligence and venture capital.

At Girls Trip Tours, embedding mentorship through my foundation, Girls MAP Inc., is my way of paying it forward. I was lucky enough to be raised by a mother and grandmother who both pursued advanced degrees, but many of the girls in our programs are first-generation students, so my aim is to give them more examples of what’s possible if they stay the course and continue their education.

Connecting ��ݮ��Ƶ’s best students with Canada’s best companies

Sam Charles — Thu, 08 May 2025 01:09:34 +0000

True North Fund partners with ��ݮ��Ƶ to develop a Canadian talent pipeline to help strengthen the country’s top 100 tech firms

Chris Albinson, co-founder and managing partner of Canadian venture capital fund True North Fund and co-founder of C100, says Canada is at a critical juncture in its continuing evolution as a global innovator. He says the country and its tech leaders need to work harder to retain the best and the brightest.

“We really need to build the narrative of 'Canada or bust!' The time for 'Cali or bust' that we hear from students has come to a close,” says ��ݮ��Ƶ-based Albinson. “For the first time we have a critical mass of global leaders based in Canada. We need to connect them to our best students. Considering the geopolitical environment we’re in, now is the time.”

Prompted by conversations at last spring’s convocation with University President and Vice-Chancellor Vivek Goel and Faculty of Engineering Dean Mary Wells, Albinson says they started exploring more ways to connect ��ݮ��Ƶ’s best students with Canada’s top private companies. That work has culminated in a partnership between True North and the University.

“As much as we’re proud to see our students thriving around the world, we also have a responsibility to show them they can build ambitious, meaningful careers right here in Canada,” Wells says. “Partnerships like this one with True North connect our students to top-tier co-op opportunities and help them see the possibilities that exist at home. I want them to see themselves not just working in Canada but also helping to build it for the future.”

Team True North is modelled after Canada’s “Own the Podium” Olympic strategy which focuses on providing resources to athletes with the highest potential for success. By merging True North’s roster of tech companies with ��ݮ��Ƶ’s co-op network, it creates a pipeline for growth and innovation in Canada.

Using an objective global standard data, True North identifies the top performing tech companies in Canada. The True North branding will provide students with the knowledge and confidence that they will have a meaningful and fulfilling co-op or full time experience at a global leader, right here in Canada.

At the bottom of each job description for these companies, it will read: “This company is part of Team True North, a comprehensive group of Canadian tech firms with performance and growth rates that match the top 1 per cent of companies worldwide.”

Some students might be surprised to learn that companies such as Arctic Wolf, Clearpath Robotics, 1Password, eSentire, Miovision Technologies and Faire are not only based in Canada but local to the ��ݮ��Ƶ region.

From the beginning, the world’s top high-tech companies have come to the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ to recruit its students. They are frequently drawn to ��ݮ��Ƶ by its track-record of developing leaders and innovators across sectors. For students, especially those seeking co-op experience, they are keen to join these large companies for the prestige and bragging rights.

The University has more than 8,000 employer partners across more than 70 countries including major tech companies such as Microsoft and Google. Despite data that shows every dollar invested by a business in a ��ݮ��Ƶ co-op student creates a greater economic gain, small and medium-sized companies may worry there might not be a critical mass of co-op applicants to draw talent from.

“We’ve heard that all high performing Canadian firms know about ��ݮ��Ƶ, but aren’t sure there are opportunities for them to recruit the University’s top students when competing against the world’s biggest companies,” Albinson says. “The same is true on the other side of the equation, that many students simply don’t realize the global leading opportunities right here in Canada, and we want to change that.”

Of Canada’s top 100 highest performing private companies, two-third are already working with ��ݮ��Ƶ co-op students. Albinson wants to close the gap with the remaining third of companies who he believes are missing an opportunity. “If we want these companies to compete globally, we need to connect them to ��ݮ��Ƶ’s talent pipeline, and vice versa, we need ��ݮ��Ƶ’s students to know and seek out these global Canadian companies.”

Companies like Faire, an online wholesale marketplace for retailers and brands, are already benefiting from its relationship with the University. With offices in San Francisco, Salt Lake City and ��ݮ��Ƶ, it employs more than 200 staff, many with University of ��ݮ��Ƶ connections.

“Our region is fortunate to be the epicentre of innovation in Canada,” Albinson says. “Our new partnership with the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ will help connect Canada’s best students with Canada’s best companies.”

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Expanding co-op options to benefit all

Elizabeth Rogers — Wed, 07 May 2025 19:58:00 +0000

Co-op for Social Good helps both students and community organizations thrive

If you’re a student with an eye on a career in the not-for profit sector, co-op job searches can sometimes feel a little challenging. A food bank, museum or community services centre might not have funds to hire a co-op student. At the same time, they could really use the extra energy and fresh ideas that a ��ݮ��Ƶ Arts student brings — and so many Arts students are driven by a passion to do good work. How to bring them together?

That’s where the Co-op for Social Good fund comes in. Donations big and small help support co-op positions in organizations with a mandate to benefit society. This way, donors to the fund double the benefit: not-for-profit organizations can hire co-op students to help them do great work for their cause, and Arts students get hands-on experience in the career of their dreams.

Help from an alum who’s been there

Raquel Paredes (Honours Arts and Business) was in her final co-op term search when she came across a listing from STEPS Public Art. It’s a Toronto-based charity and social enterprise that facilitates public art projects across Canada. “In my past co-op searches, I have wished more opportunities were in the Arts field,” she says. “So when I saw the posting to work at STEPS, I thought it would be amazing to use my marketing and communications skills for a public art organization.”

There was a ��ݮ��Ƶ connection on the other side of that posting, as well. Grace Lai is STEPS’s communications manager and a Global Business and Digital Arts graduate (2016). “I know how meaningful co-op experiences are for academic growth and career development,” she says. ��ݮ��Ƶ’s co-op team reached out to let Lai know about the grant last January, inviting STEPS to apply.

Building a not-for-profit skill set

With just nine employees working on projects nationwide, STEPS is small but mighty—and it’s hopping in the summer season. Among other things, STEPS connects artists with developers to decorate construction hoardings, assists cities developing cultural plans and programs, and helps BIAs build all kinds of community art projects, from murals to light installations to one very artistic mini-putt course. “I was never aware of the massive community that existed for public art!” says Raquel. As Communications Assistant, Raquel pitched in with social media and email marketing campaigns, digital storytelling, and other promotional activities throughout the summer. Grace praises her strong writing and creativity.

Work that feeds the community and the heart

Raquel says she learned how important it is to really love your work at a not-for-profit. “You have to be passionate about what you are doing because that shows through all you do,” she says, “whether it be interacting with followers on social media or hosting events for local communities.” One of her favourite parts of the job involved hearing directly from the artists themselves, as a contributor to the artist newsletter. “I could see the impact the organization was making on these artists. It is extremely fulfilling to know that your efforts are being put towards something meaningful, something that brings others and communities joy and support.”

From STEPS’s perspective, there’s meaning in helping the next generation of arts grads: “Having a co-op student is great because not only is the co-op student contributing to the organization through their day-to-day tasks and projects,” Grace adds, “it also feels rewarding to be able to provide a valuable learning experience for the student.”

That good feeling makes all the difference for co-op students who find work that feeds their passion for a cause. Raquel is particularly appreciative of the donors who make the Co-op for Social Good possible. “I’ve searched for a co-op position like this one since my very first co-op job search back in 2021,” she says. “I am very grateful that these opportunities are being given to Arts students so that they can gain job experience while being in a sector they love and giving back to communities.”

Banner image: Comm(uniti) in Bloom (2024) by Fuelled by Coffee Collective (Photo Credit: Stories at the Table)

On May 15, the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ will launch our first Giving Day. This event encourages you to support the ��ݮ��Ƶ initiatives you care most about — like helping young people achieve their educational dreams — and connect with other donors to increase the impact of your gift. Join us on Giving Day and help ��ݮ��Ƶ build a better tomorrow.

Oh, the places you’ll go!

Elizabeth Rogers — Wed, 07 May 2025 19:29:13 +0000

For Arts grad students, professional development means travel - and the Connect 4 Success fund can help

At the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ, academic research crosses boundaries – disciplinary, but also international. For Psychology PhD candidate Jasmine Zhang’s research with the FamilyPsycle Lab on digital media effects on the well-being of children, caregivers, and families, she collaborates with scholars at the Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming at the University of Gibraltar.

So when Jasmine’s advisor emailed her about a summer school opportunity at the University of Gibraltar last year, she jumped at it – not only for the education, but also for the chance to finally meet her teammates.

There was just the little matter of the plane ticket: “Traveling to Europe is not a cheap process, especially with the conversion rates!” Jasmine points out.

The cost of planes, trains and automobiles

Opportunities – and expenses – like this are the reason ��ݮ��Ƶ Arts established the Connect 4 Success fund. For almost all graduate students, travel is essential to academic success: presenting papers, building professional networks, and conducting original research so often means hopping on a plane or a train. The Connect 4 Success Fund helps grad students bridge the financial gap at a point in their careers when a ticket to ride can be both critical to their progress and an out-of-reach expense.

For Jasmine, the University of Gibraltar’s Publishing in Addiction Science PhD Summer School, a five-day program to learn best practices in preparing papers for publication in the field, brought a wealth of enrichment: new skills and information, experience with world-renowned researchers, and a chance to network face-to-face with her peers. When she and her teammates finally had the chance to meet in person, new research ideas started brewing. “We’re hoping to put a few papers together,” she says.

Back at ��ݮ��Ƶ, Jasmine’s been sharing the knowledge she gathered abroad: “I’ve been able to pass down some of that information to undergrads I supervise: guidelines to follow, what editors expect to see, what to look out for when selecting a journal, those kinds of things.” With one year left plus residency to complete her PhD in clinical psychology, she’s looking ahead to professional life: “I’m hoping for a position that balances research and clinical work – so I can keep doing research, but keep working with children and caregivers and families.”

Jasmine wants donors to know they make all the difference to students like her. “These sorts of experiences are extremely enriching. The support makes such an impact. Being able to go to these kinds of workshops and conferences – it’s such a unique way to develop professionally that we aren’t necessarily going to get elsewhere. Every penny helps and it’s all being used for good work that will benefit society more broadly.”

Planting the seeds for innovation and curiosity

Sam Charles — Tue, 06 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

More than 100,000 children and youth from across the region are discovering the wonders of science and technology through the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ

Ask a 10-year-old in ��ݮ��Ƶ region about the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ and they may tell you about the time they played with Nao or Talos, the humanoid robots housed in ��ݮ��Ƶ Engineering’s RoboHub.

Every week, elementary school-aged students from across the region, visit campus as part of the Kids on Campus and "Mentor" lab programs to learn about a variety of topics including AI and technology literacy. Their visits can include stops at the RoboHub, Institute for Quantum Computing, Crash Labs (MME) and WatiMake Lab. Not only do these programs become a foundation for the students’ future success, but they play a role in maintaining the region’s strengths in developing talent and technology.

In the past five years, Engineering Outreach has offered more than 3,000 programs and reached nearly 100,000 youth.

“Our region benefits from having one of Canada’s most innovative universities here in our backyard,” says Sophie Nasato, senior manager Engineering Outreach. “There is nothing like seeing the spark that ignites in the eyes of so many of the young people who visit our campus when they program a robot or learn how technology impacts their world.”

The impact of the University goes far beyond the sharing of knowledge, innovative research or launching of start-ups. Through outreach programs led by each of its faculties, ��ݮ��Ƶ engages and motivates children and youth in its community to be curious and explore. From STEM programs to the arts and sports, the University seeks to inspire its broader community.

There are many factors that draw students and researchers to ��ݮ��Ƶ. Its reputation for being cutting-edge and its co-op program are two of the biggest, but its connection to community is another.

Fourth-year Mathematical Physics (co-op) and Astrophysics minor student, Lauren Brown first experienced ��ݮ��Ƶ outreach as an eight-year-old attending ESQ summer camp. “Outreach played a major role in my decision to ultimately attend ��ݮ��Ƶ,” she says. “While I enjoyed my schooling, I strongly benefited from learning about topics outside of the standard curriculum, surrounded by like-minded individuals.”

Brown attended ESQ summer camps and Go Eng Girl programming for five years. She says she also benefited from Engineering Outreach classroom workshops. “It was a full-circle moment when I started attending schools in the region to teach students about the same topics I had been interested in back then. I decided to work with Outreach because I wanted to give back to the community that helped me grow into the learner I am today.”

��ݮ��Ƶ was established in the 1950s with the goal of helping tackle some of the world’s most daunting challenges. Today, ��ݮ��Ƶ continues to share with the world innovative solutions to global challenges while working in collaboration locally to ensure they are addressed in its own surrounding communities.

These challenges include preparing a workforce that is agile and ready for whatever tomorrow brings. That work doesn’t simply begin when first-year students step onto campus. For many youth in the ��ݮ��Ƶ region, it starts in elementary school with a trip to campus, a classroom workshop with ��ݮ��Ƶ students, or by attending a summer camp.

“I still remember seeing my fingerprint for the first time and participating in energy and water filtration activities in grades four or five when ��ݮ��Ƶ scientists visited my class,” says Tasbiha Saif Ansari, a third-year student in the Science and Business program at ��ݮ��Ƶ. Today, Ansari volunteers with the outreach team at the Faculty of Science.

Often in collaboration with community partners and schools, ��ݮ��Ƶ provides outreach programming that includes camps, the Earth Science Museum, clubs, workshops, conferences and community events. This programming is designed for all youth, with an emphasis on those historically under-represented in STEM and under-served populations.

Simone Sankhe is finishing up her first year as a Math and Business major — a joint program between ��ݮ��Ƶ and Wilfrid Laurier. “Attending ESQ at a young age made STEM feel exciting and accessible, and it definitely helped spark the passion that led me to where I am today.”

Not only did Sankhe participate in ESQ camps and Leader in Training programming at ��ݮ��Ƶ, but she was a high school leader in 2023/24, and part-time outreach instructor for the past two years. “It's honestly incredibly rewarding. I love working with Engineering Outreach because we're able to work with so many kids from different backgrounds and it's always so impressive to see how much they already know, and how their interest in STEM is growing."

Helping young Canadians discover STEM

“We’re trying to give every young person in our area, whether they are 7 or 17, the chance to immerse themselves in science and technology,” says Nasato. “The interest and demand from the community continues to grow, and we are grateful to our many donors and partners for supporting the expansion of these offerings.”

The programs are supported by ��ݮ��Ƶ and many generous individual donors and organizations. As lead sponsors, Actua and Let’s Talk Science play an important role in expanding many of the programs to ensure under-served populations have an opportunity to participate. Actua provides funding for many of ��ݮ��Ƶ’s engineering outreach programs while Let’s Talk Science supports science outreach.

While most engineering programs are funded by sponsors and donors, both Faculties largely rely on volunteers, co-op students and staff. Between the Let’s Talk Science program, campus lab days and the Earth Science Museum, the Faculty of Science annually connects with close to 10,000 students ranging from grades 1 to 12.

The campus lab workshops, that take place in April and May, draw grade 11 and 12 classes from across the region and as far as Toronto and Windsor.

“All of our programming is about removing barriers, and letting young people explore and discover,” says Heather Neufeld, manager Science Outreach. “Our overall goal is to help feed people’s curiosity and sense of wonder when it comes to science and learning.”

It is often a full-circle moment for outreach staff and volunteers when they work with young students. “I love when students ask ‘big’ questions because these often lead to fruitful discussions and provide an opportunity for students to ask scientific questions outside of the typical school structure, and without the added pressure of grades,” Brown says. “When students think critically and are interested enough in the material to ask scientific questions, it reminds me of my own experiences at that age, and it is amazing to be a part of that experience for them.”

Everyone involved from participants to instructors benefits from outreach according to Neufeld. “Not only are we inspiring young minds to explore and discover STEM topics, but outreach is also a great opportunity for our student volunteers to connect with the public, share their passion, and explain complicated topics in a way we can all understand.”

Inspired by its long-standing connections with the community, the University continues to foster these connections with the goal of having a positive impact locally and globally. Outreach plays a lasting role in encouraging young and old to be curious and explore what’s possible.

Here is a selection of University of ��ݮ��Ƶ outreach programming:

ESQ Summer Camps led by the Faculty of Engineering with support from the Faculty of Science includes a variety of hands-on activities that explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and feature STEM mentors and tours of exciting spaces on ��ݮ��Ƶ’s campus. Campers will experiment with new technology, develop valuable skills, and connect with friends. Camps are offered in four grade ranges: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 and 8-9. Find out more about other programs hosted by Engineering Outreach.

You can keep up with the variety of opportunities offered by Science Outreach by signing up for their mailing list. Public lectures, community events and opportunities for both students and schools are shared monthly.

The Student Art Innovation Lab is a mobile Faculty of Arts outreach program that hosts workshops and exhibitions.

Ecology Lab at the Faculty of Environment provides enrichment programs and workshops that include both field and lab activities designed for the students.

The Faculty of Mathematics offers a variety of outreach and enrichment programs to promote mathematics and computer science.

The Faculty of Health has been opening its doors for more than 50 years to host Kinesiology Lab Days. The program introduces high school students to kinesiology — the science of human movement.

��ݮ��Ƶ’s Athletics and Recreation department offers summer youth camps where campers can explore new skills, try out exciting activities and grow into confident Warriors.

Technological Futures

Automation isn’t replacing auditors, it’s rewriting the job description

Darren Mc Almont — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:15:00 +0000

New study reveals how AI is transforming the role of junior auditors and highlights the importance of co-op and data literacy

As automation and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to reshape the workforce, the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ is at the forefront of finding solutions for this challenge. With the increasing value placed on hands-on data analytics training, the School of Accounting and Finance (SAF) at ��ݮ��Ƶ recently hired a new faculty member to specifically lead a new project-based AI course. This means that students won’t just learn about technology, they’ll be solving real problems with it.

This is especially important since a new study conducted by a joint team of researchers from Wilfrid Laurier University, University of ��ݮ��Ƶ and York University offers a timely look at how emerging technologies are revolutionizing the role of staff auditors — the entry-level professionals who form the foundation of audit teams. The study explores how audit firms are rethinking everything from job design to on-the-job learning as technology redefines the profession.

Dr. Krista Fiolleau
Faculty of Arts

“Junior auditors used to spend their early years doing mundane, administrative tasks. Now that these tasks can be completed quickly and efficiently by AI, junior auditors are being asked to interpret more complex data, ask deeper questions and provide more informed insights right out of the gate,” says Dr. Krista Fiolleau, professor at SAF.

The study draws on in-depth interviews with 27 audit professionals from leading firms across Canada. Using qualitative analysis, the researchers uncovered a striking shift in how staff auditors work. Tasks that once filled early-career roles such as data entry, cross-checking numbers and preparing lead sheets, are now being handled by audit software, robotic process automation and AI-powered analytics.

But rather than reducing the need for entry-level auditors, this automation is elevating expectations. Staff auditors are increasingly responsible for interpreting outputs, analyzing complex exceptions flagged by software and communicating insights directly to clients — often earlier in their careers than before.

“The work that automation is replacing is the kind of work nobody really wanted to do anyway. What we’re left with is more meaningful and interesting and that’s actually a good thing,” Fiolleau says.

One of the study’s key findings underscores that while audit technology can automate routine tasks, it can’t replace professional skepticism, communication and ethical judgment — traits that auditors must develop early and continuously.

Yet, as firms move to more remote work models and smaller on-site audit teams, traditional on-the-job learning opportunities are shrinking, which means that co-op experience is seen as an asset.

“Students with co-op opportunities have more time before they become permanent employees, giving them a little bit more leeway to learn on-site than they might have otherwise,” Fiolleau adds.

As technological disruption continues to change the nature of work, ��ݮ��Ƶ continues to leverage its co-op advantage by ensuring learning in the workplace is embedded into the curriculum to benefit all students.

“We’ve been anticipating these shifts in the profession for a while and have made emerging technology and data literacy a core part of our programming — not an elective, but an integrated foundation across our accounting and finance education,” says Blake Phillips, director of SAF. “Last year alone, 97 of our graduates completed the Data Analytics specialization, which is widely recognized within the School as the emerging technology stream. Almost all of the graduates combined that with a core in accounting … and that speaks directly to market demand.”

The specialization is essential because another compelling insight from the study indicates that firms are no longer focused solely on a candidate’s alma mater or CPA exam results, they’re now scrutinizing what program students are in and specific courses they've completed. As the profession continues to evolve, the findings serve as a call to action for educators and firms alike to invest in the skills that machines can't replicate: judgment, communication and adaptability.

The study, titled “Technology and its Implications for Staff Auditors” is published in the journal  Accounting Horizons.

Arts

Research

Technological Futures

Driving economic growth in creative industries

Angelica Sanchez — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:12:36 +0000

University of ��ݮ��Ƶ and Progressive Generation Holding partner to deliver world-class media production and boost creative economy

WatSPEED, the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ’s professional, and executive and corporate education arm, announced a multi-year partnership agreement with Progressive Generation (PG) Holding represented by PG Studios at the Education Global Exhibition (EDGEx) assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The partnership will offer co-branded animation certificate programs designed to equip students in Jordan and Saudi Arabia with the skills and knowledge to excel in competitive global markets.

��ݮ��Ƶ's role in this collaboration includes advising on the structure, content, learning outcomes, assessments of the programs and certification, with significant involvement from the Faculty of Arts, Renison University College and WatSPEED. Students will receive co-branded certificates in media production, specifically animation (both 2D and 3D), filmmaking, documentaries and advertising, and participate in an intensive summer design experience hosted at ��ݮ��Ƶ.

The announcement at EDGEx offered education leaders, innovators and policymakers exclusive insights into how this collaboration will revolutionize media production education and accelerate economic development in the Middle Eastern and North Africa (MENA) region.

"The future belongs to those who build it—and today, PG and ��ݮ��Ƶ are laying the foundation. This landmark partnership reflects PG Academy’s unwavering commitment to equipping the next generation of leaders with cutting-edge, skills-driven education that bridges global expertise with local innovation,” says Ahmad Almasri, CEO of PG Holding.

“We are proud to collaborate with a visionary institution like ��ݮ��Ƶ to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Together, we aim to foster a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurship and the creative economy, creating transformative opportunities for learners and industries alike. There’s no better platform to unveil this milestone than EDGEx — a powerful testament to our shared dedication to reshaping the future of work and education."

PG Studios, specializing in 2D and 3D animation, music production, audio engineering and video production, is at the forefront of this collaboration. The partnership with ��ݮ��Ƶ will see the establishment of PG Academy — an extension of PG’s School of Animation Arts — designed to create more than 50,000 job opportunities for Jordanian and Saudi youth in fields including animation production, video game development, content creation and more.

��ݮ��Ƶ excels in providing experiential education and fostering entrepreneurship through the University's for-credit programs, WatSPEED's upskilling programs and the startup incubator Velocity. These initiatives ensure that student and researcher innovations yield significant societal and economic benefits. PG Holding’s focus on investing in creative content and intellectual properties complements with ��ݮ��Ƶ’s dedication to IP mobilization and commercialization. Together, they share a vision of leveraging intellectual property to inspire innovation and drive economic growth.

“This partnership reflects ��ݮ��Ƶ’s commitment to preparing learners for the future of work through globally recognized, skills-based education that’s rooted in real-world impact," says Sanjeev Gill, associate vice-president of Innovation at ��ݮ��Ƶ. "We are proud to work alongside forward-thinking partners like PG Academy in Saudi Arabia to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. This cross-border collaboration will strengthen the creative economy and entrepreneurship across the region, and so we’re delighted to be able to announce this partnership for the first time at EDGEx in Riyadh.”

Dr. Monica Leoni, professor and chair of Spanish and Latin American Studies and chair of Fine Arts, and Dr. Gerald Vorhees, professor and chair of Communication Arts, are dedicated to bridging the connection between ��ݮ��Ƶ and PG Holding by facilitating curriculum development aligned with ��ݮ��Ƶ’s Alternative Credits Approval Committee.

Animation has the ability to transcend cultural barriers and evoke empathy, offering a unique opportunity for students to create animations at PG Academy that present more authentic storytelling and views of the MENA region. ��ݮ��Ƶ and PG Holding also strive to challenge misinformation and reshape perceptions of the Middle East. Their co-branded certificate programs in media production will encourage students to create content that resonates with local audiences and reflect their realities. The international partnership aims to enhance global viewers’ understanding and appreciation of the Middle East’s rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions and daily life.

��ݮ��Ƶ’s Faculty of Arts programming in game studies, digital and studio arts has long been recognized for excellence in nurturing creative talent. ��ݮ��Ƶ has produced graduates like Chris Williams (BA ’90) who have continued to pursue their passions in animation, having a career as an intern at Disney working on numerous projects and as co-director of Big Hero 6, which received an Oscar award for best animated feature in 2015.

The collaboration between PG Holding and ��ݮ��Ƶ marks a significant milestone in animation education in the MENA region. With state-of-the-art facilities, local faculty in Saudi Arabia trained by Leoni and Vorhees, and a curriculum designed to meet international standards, PG Academy is set to become a beacon of excellence in animation education in the Arab world.

Campus

Arts

Co-op and Experiential Education

Q and A with the Experts: The Great Lakes in a trade war

Pamela Smyth — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 03:16:59 +0000

��ݮ��Ƶ professor discusses the value and protection of Canada’s water resources

Canada and the U.S. share the Great Lakes except Lake Michigan. Half of the trade between the two countries takes place in and around the Great Lakes. Recent rhetoric from the U.S. government raises concerns about Canada’s sovereignty and resources.

Dr. Roy Brouwer, a professor of economics and executive director of the Water Institute at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ, discusses managing and safeguarding Canada's water resources.

What is the economic value of Canada’s water resources?

A precise dollar value is unknown because a part of what we consume is priced, while other uses are free. The significance of water in economic development is clear in a wide range of industries, including agriculture, energy, mining, manufacturing, transportation, municipal water supply, tourism and recreation, and fisheries.

How important is water to Canada’s economy?

Statistics Canada calculates that industry uses almost 16 cubic metres — 16,000 litres — for every $1,000 in GDP. Hydropower is one of the largest water users in Canada and responsible for about 60 per cent of total electricity production in Canada with a sales value of more than $50 billion per year. Other important water users are manufacturing, mining and irrigated agriculture.

How do Canada and the U.S. share the Great Lakes?

A long collaboration between Canada and the U.S. to manage shared water resources started with the creation of the International Joint Commission in 1909. It is an independent bi-national organization whose primary aim is to help prevent and resolve disputes relating to the use and quality of the shared boundary waters between Canada and the U.S. A key agreement between the two countries is the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, signed in 1972 and updated in 2012, identifying shared priorities and actions needed to restore and protect the Great Lakes.

With Canada and the U.S. in a trade war despite CUSMA, what is the risk of the Trump administration breaching agreements about the Great Lakes and what is at risk?

It is hard to predict. Transfers of water from one basin to another using pipelines or canals are costly and can significantly alter water supplies, hydrology, the economy and environment in the donor basin. Since 30 per cent of U.S. GDP is generated in the Great Lakes region, it seems unlikely that the U.S. government will jeopardize the Great Lakes economy and jobs by taking away its key resource. Ten percent of the U.S. population live and work here. Current water infrastructure is in urgent need of repair and replacement to respond to the anticipated impacts of climate change. There is an opportunity to build back infrastructure better using a circular economy approach to reduce and optimize the use of water — of benefit to us all — not only in the Great Lakes, but also elsewhere in Canada and the U.S.