The Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo’s Equity Committee has awarded a 2018 Equity and Inclusivity Award to Women in Computer Science — a group of dedicated undergrad students, graduate students and faculty members that promotes women who are interested in studying computer science and who are pursuing careers in computing.
WiCS has worked for more than 10 years to build an environment in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science where women are supported in their work and studies. WiCS offers technical and soft skills workshops, mentoring, online resources, career panels and orientation activities. WiCS also forms partnerships with local companies, offering outreach activities within the community, and has contributed to significant, measurable improvements in gender diversity within the School of Computer Science.
“WICS has made a sustained and highly valuable contribution for a decade in fostering an environment to encourage participation and to ensure equity for women,” said Dean of Mathematics Stephen Watt in his nomination letter.
L to R: Saadiya Desai, Helen (Shiqi) Yang, Anna Lorimer, Arshia Mufti, Fatema Boxwala, Professor Jo Atlee (Director of Women in Computer Science), Professor Weizhen Dong (Equity Committee Chair)
Conferred annually by the Faculty Association’s Equity Committee since 2012, the Equity and Inclusivity Awards recognize members or groups of the University of Waterloo community whose actions have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to improving equity, inclusivity and diversity.