Please join us for a gathering to honour faculty member and our Elder in Residence William (Bill) Woodworth, Raweno:kwas kenha.
Elder William (Bill) Woodworth, who played a vital role in advancing Indigenous presence and perspective at the University of Waterloo, passed away unexpectedly June 9, 2025.
A long-time faculty member in the School of Architecture and Elder in Residence for the Faculty of Engineering, Woodworth supported students, faculty and staff by sharing his knowledge, stories and care for community. His calm presence brought people together, encouraged meaningful conversations and helped make the University a more welcoming and respectful place for everyone.
Woodworth (Raweno:kwas in his Haudenosaunee name) was a member of the Lower Mohawk Kanien'kehá:ka Nation of Six Nations of the Grand River in the Bear Clan. He worked tirelessly to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities and to shape a campus culture grounded in respect, listening and humility.
“His presence reminded us all of the importance of listening and learning with humility,” said Dean Mary Wells in a message to the Faculty. “His passing is a profound loss.”
Our time together will include:
- 1:45 pm SMUDGE Opening with Elder Myeengun Henry – This is a collective moment of grounding, cleansing, and preparation to carry Bill’s memory.
- 2:10 Welcome remarks from Matt Borland, Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
- 2:20 Land Acknowledgement by Penn Bolourchi, Master of Architecture Student
- 2:30 Ceremonial opening & explanation of offerings
- 2:45 Moment of Silence by the Grand River led by Leslie Wexler, Manager Indigenous Pedagogy, George Brown College
- 2:50 Words to Honour the Five Worlds of Bill by Leslie
- 3:05 Invited speakers to share their reflections, drawing from different aspects of Bill’s life
- 3:45 Closing gesture moving towards a gathering after the event by Matt Borland
Bus service from central campus is available for those who wish to join us from Waterloo.