Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
President shares an end-of-year message
A message from Vivek Goel, President and Vice-Chancellor.
As the days get shorter and we welcome the changing of the season, this time of the year is an opportunity to pause and reflect.
Reflecting on the past year, I am grateful for many things and many people—including every one of you in our community. Thank you for all your contributions through another challenging year. Your hard work and the diverse perspectives and knowledge each of you bring to our campuses every day make our community stronger.
Many of us are observing various holidays and customs this month and over the break. I enjoyed learning more about the significance of the Winter Solstice for certain Indigenous cultures. I would like to thank Savanah Seaton from the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC) at United College for taking the time to share this knowledge with me.
The experience also reminded me of the importance of embracing and sharing traditional knowledge. Taking the time to slow down, connect to the land and spend time with loved ones is a timely message for us all.
However you spend the winter break, I hope you are able to connect with the people, places and traditions you hold dear, and that you take the time to rest and rejuvenate.
Wishing you a happy, safe and restful break. And we’ll see you again when the days get brighter.
Waterloo team visits Zimbabwe and East Africa
By Tracelyn Cornelius. This article was originally published on Waterloo News.
A team from the University of Waterloo recently completed a visit to Zimbabwe and East Africa with the goal of establishing local connections and helping to showcase the University’s distinguished scholarship, teaching excellence and ground-breaking research and innovation.
Leading this team was Dr. Christopher S. Taylor, associate vice-president, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-racism (EDI-RO), who was accompanied by Akua Amin-Asare, international recruitment specialist and Karuna Ausman, international marketing and recruitment specialist in the Registrar’s Office.
The group joined several other Canadian educational institutions as part of a roadshow, organized by the Vancouver based Illume Student Advisory Services Ltd. They visited several educational institutions in Zimbabwe, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and Mauritius, where they engaged with prospective students and their parents, as well as representatives from the schools.
The AVP, EDI-RO, who is also an assistant professor of History, said that many of the groups which he connected with expressed surprise at seeing a member of a marginalized group in a leadership position at a large Canadian university.
“The reception our team received was outstanding,” he said. “Many remarked that it was exhilarating to see someone who looked like them, someone who understood firsthand the unique challenges that they would face as international students in Canada, and someone with the capacity to advocate for proper supports to be available to help them thrive after they are admitted.”
Dr. Taylor said Africa can be a challenging territory for admissions teams to navigate. A lack of financial resources may limit widespread student mobility from African countries relative to other regions, however, he believes that the continent’s growing youth population, up-and-coming economy and hunger for innovative entrepreneurial education make it a promising recruitment market for Waterloo.
"In the entrepreneurial space, African nations are in the midst of a sort of innovation renaissance,” he said. “The continent has one of the youngest populations in the world, a rapidly growing economy and a healthy ecosystem of tech start-ups. Since one of Waterloo’s impact themes is developing talent for a complex future, it makes sense to cater to the huge demand for innovative education and research.”
Dr. Taylor recognizes and celebrates existing recruitment efforts being made in the African continent and looks to forward to working collaboratively with senior administrators to further develop welcoming communities for students, faculty and alums from Africa.
Dr. Taylor also looks forward to facilitating pathways for further collaboration between educators and scholars to learn from the growing entrepreneurial eco-system in Africa and to assist in developing it. He hopes to work with both the Registrar’s office and Waterloo International to embark on a West African tour in the upcoming year.
Read more about anti-racism work on campus
Our anti-racism newsletter, The Catalyst, showcases the many staff, faculty and students who are engaged in anti-racism work each day on campus. Subscribe to receive each issue directly to your inbox.
Waterloo Centre for German Studies announces 2021 book prize winner
A message from the Waterloo Centre for German Studies.
The Ambivalence of Gay Liberation: Male Homosexual Politics in 1970s West Germany (Oxford University Press) by Craig Griffiths has been awarded the Waterloo Centre for German Studies Book Prize for first books published in 2021.
In selecting The Ambivalence of Gay Liberation as the winner, jurors called it a book that “is sure to influence scholarly work in its field and in wider historical study of modern German society.” It’s an exceptionally well written study, impressively clear yet nuanced, and its use of diverse and sometimes surprising resources demonstrates deep knowledge of the topic. The book is destined to become a benchmark for others trying to understand the cultural and political phenomenon that is gay liberation.
The Waterloo Centre for German Studies, a research institute at the University of Waterloo, promotes scholarly inquiry into all aspects of the German-speaking world. As part of this mandate, the WCGS takes great pride in sponsoring an award that celebrates the dynamic and engaging scholarship occurring in all fields of German Studies. The prize is adjudicated by a jury of German studies scholars chaired by James M. Skidmore, Director of the Waterloo Centre for German Studies. Members of the jury were Monica Black (University of Tennessee-Knoxville), Barbara Schmenk (University of Waterloo), Kathryn Starkey (Stanford University), and Joachim Whaley (University of Cambridge).
The prize consists of a cash award of CAD $3,000 and an invitation to speak at the 2023 conference of German Studies Canada, the association of German studies scholars in Canada.
For more information, please contact wcgs@uwaterloo.ca or visit our website.
CEL launches TA training for facilitating online courses
A message from the Centre for Extended Learning (CEL).
The Centre for Extended Learning (CEL) is hosting an online certificate course entitled Getting Ready to Facilitate Online Courses: TA Training – Winter 2023, which will run from February 6 to March 10 (no activities scheduled between February 20 to 24).
"This 4-week, online certificate course is suitable for any current or future teaching assistant (TA) wishing to build skills and knowledge of best practices in facilitating fully online courses," says the course description. "While this course has been specifically designed for a TA or preceptor, the insight into online course facilitation and skills developed will build proficiency at all levels up to the instructor role. You will discover how to successfully contribute to the facilitation of an online course, foster student engagement, support student outcomes, and build a sense of community using various forms of interaction. Participants will also learn how to use LEARN LMS tools to create presence and connection, assess student learning and work effectively in their TA/Preceptor role."
Note: The format of the course is asynchronous (no live virtual sessions), however, participants are required to engage with the course content, interact with other participants, and complete activities each week by the scheduled deadlines. Participants should expect to spend about 4 hours per week on the course.
Register on GoSignMeUp. Course registration closes on Monday, January 30.
Writing and Communication Centre announces programs and services for 2023
A message from the Writing and Communication Centre.
As the winter term kicks off, the Writing and Communication Centre would like to remind all graduate and undergraduate students about our free services and programs.
Drop-ins at The Write Spot
Available on the second floor of the South Campus Hall (SCH) building in room 219, The Write Spot is aimed at providing students with meeting areas and workspaces, free coffee and lounge seating, as well as with on-the-spot writing support.
This area will be available for student drop-ins starting on Monday, January 16, 2023. Room 219 will be available throughout the winter 2023 term up until April 28, 2023. We will open around 8:30 a.m. each morning and close at roughly 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon.
Drop-ins at the new WCC Space! | Writing and Communication Centre (uwaterloo.ca)
Drop-ins at the Dana Porter Library
Drop by the Dana Porter Library anytime between 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. from Tuesday to Thursday each week to get professional writing support from one of our dedicated and inspiring peer tutors!
You’ll be able to find our drop-in sessions on the first floor of the Dana Porter Library, just to the left of the circulation desk. These drop-in sessions will be available starting from Tuesday, January 10th, 2023 all the way through the winter term until Thursday, April 6, 2023.
Drop-ins | Writing and Communication Centre (uwaterloo.ca)
English Conversation Circles
ECC provides a safe space for undergraduate and graduate English Language Learners (ELL) to practice conversational English with friendly staff and students. This program offers students a place to make new friends and reconnect with old ones. Registration will open on Wednesday, January 4th at noon.
Sessions will occur on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for 6 weeks (excluding reading week). Our first ECC meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 18, 2023 and the final meeting of this term will occur on Thursday, March 9, 2023.
English Conversation Circles | Writing and Communication Centre (uwaterloo.ca)
Email Tutoring
Want to get critical feedback on your work but just don’t have the time to sit down with one of our peer tutors? Then be sure to check out our email tutoring service, which is back again for the winter 2023 term!
This service is available to both graduate and undergraduate students from Monday to Thursday every week. We’ll be starting this service up again on January 9th, 2023 and it will continue throughout the winter term up until April 6, 2023.
Email Tutoring | Writing and Communication Centre (uwaterloo.ca)
Beyond the Bulletin Episode 149
The latest episode of the Beyond the Bulletin podcast is now live. Elder Myeengun Henry, Indigenous Knowledge Keeper in the Faculty of Health, tells us the winter solstice is a time of reflection, and he shares some highlights from 2022. With wintry weather here, the University’s official emergency weather closing procedure is in effect. And the president releases a video that reflects on the winter solstice in advance of the winter break.
Upcoming office closures
The Offices of the Associate Provost, Human Resources will be closed today from 12 noon until the end of the day for an employee meeting and event.
University Relations offices in East Campus 5 will be closed today from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. for a staff event.
Link of the day
When and Where to get support
Students can visit the Student Success Office online for supports including academic development, international student resources, immigration consulting, leadership development, exchange and study abroad, and opportunities to get involved.
Instructors looking for targeted support for developing online components for blended learning courses, transitioning remote to fully online courses, revising current online courses, and more please visit Agile Development | Centre for Extended Learning | University of Waterloo (uwaterloo.ca).
Faculty, staff, post-doc and graduate student instructors can find upcoming teaching and learning workshops, self-directed modules and recordings of previous events on Centre for Teaching Excellence Workshops and Events page.
Instructors can access the EdTech Hub to find support on Waterloo’s centrally supported EdTech tools. The Hub is supported by members of IST’s Instructional Technologies and Media Services, Centre for Teaching Excellence, Centre for Extended Learning and subject matter experts from other campus areas.
Supports are available for employees returning to campus. Visit IST’s Hybrid Work and Technology guidelines and workplace protocols to assist with the transition.
Students with permanent, temporary and suspected disabilities and disabling conditions (medical conditions, injuries, or trauma from discrimination, violence, or oppression) can register with AccessAbility Services for academic accommodations (classroom accommodations, testing accommodations, milestone accommodations).
Instructors can visit AccessAbility Services' Faculty and Staff web page for information about the Instructor/Faculty role in the accommodation process. Instructors/Faculty members are legally required to accommodate students with disabilities. AccessAbility Services (AAS) is here to help you understand your obligations, and to offer services and resources to help you facilitate accommodations.
The Writing and Communication Centre has in-person and virtual services to support grad and undergrad students, postdocs and faculty with any writing or communication project. Services include one-to-one appointments, drop-ins at Dana Porter Library, online workshops, writing groups, English conversation practice, and custom in-class workshops.
Research Ethics: Find yourself with an ethical question, unsure if your work requires an ethics review, or need advice about putting together a research ethics application? Reach out to one of our friendly staff by booking a consultation or email us with your questions.
Co-op students can get help finding a job and find supports to successfully work remotely, develop new skills, access wellness and career information, and contact a co-op or career advisor.
The Centre for Career Action (CCA) has services and programs to support undergrads, grad students, postdocs, alumni, and employees in figuring out what they value, what they’re good at, and how to access meaningful work, co-op, volunteer, or graduate/professional school opportunities. Questions about CCA's services? Live chat, call 519-888-4047, or stop by our front desk in the Tatham Centre 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Drop-in to in-person Warrior Study Halls on Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in DC and DP. Join a Peer Success Coach to set goals and work independently or in groups each week.
Renison's English Language Institute continues to offer virtual events and workshops to help students practice their English language skills.
If you feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk to somebody, please contact the University’s Campus Wellness services, either Health Services or Counselling Services. You can also contact the University's Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment. Good2Talk is a post-secondary student helpline available to all students.
The Library is here to help, both in person and online. Our spaces are open for access to book stacks, study space, computers and printers, and the IST Help Desk. For in-depth support, meet one-to-one with Librarians, Special Collections & Archives and Geospatial Centre staff. Access our resources online for anywhere, anytime learning and research. Full details on current services and hours are available on the Library’s COVID-19 Update webpage.
The Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo (FAUW) continues to advocate for its members. Check out the FAUW blog for more information.
The University of Waterloo Staff Association (UWSA) continues to advocate for its members. Check out the UWSA blog for more information.
The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism (EDI-R) works with students, faculty and staff across campus to advance equity and Anti-racism through evidence-based policies, practices and programs. If you have a concern related to Anti-racism and/or equity, please complete our intake form.
The Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) supports all members of the University of Waterloo campus community who have experienced, or been impacted, by sexual violence. This includes all students, staff, faculty and visitors on the main campus, the satellite campuses, and at the affiliated and federated Waterloo Institutes and Colleges. For support, email: svpro@uwaterloo.ca or visit the SVPRO website.
The Office of Indigenous Relations is a central hub that provides guidance, support, and resources to all Indigenous and non-Indigenous campus community members and oversees the University's Indigenization strategy.
The Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre, based at United College, provides support and resources for Indigenous students, and educational outreach programs for the broader community, including lectures, and events.
WUSA supports for students:
Peer support - MATES, Glow Centre, RAISE, Women’s Centre - Click on one of the links to book an appointment either in person or online for the term.
Food Support Service food hampers are currently available from the Turnkey Desk 24/7 in the Student Life Centre. Drop-off locations are also open again in SLC, DC, DP, SCH, and all residences.
Co-op Connection all available online.
Centre for Academic Policy Support - CAPS is here to assist Waterloo undergraduates throughout their experience in navigating academic policy in the instances of filing petitions, grievances and appeals. Please contact them at caps@wusa.ca.
WUSA Student Legal Protection Program - Seeking legal counsel can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time facing a legal issue. The legal assistance helpline provides quick access to legal advice in any area of law, including criminal. Just call 1-833-202-4571.
Empower Me is a confidential mental health and wellness service that connects students with qualified counsellors 24/7. They can be reached at 1-833-628-5589.
GSA-UW supports for graduate students:
The Graduate Student Association (GSA-UW) supports students’ academic and social experience and promotes their well-being.
Advising and Support - The GSA advises graduate students experiencing challenges and can help with navigating university policies & filing a grievance, appeal, or petition.
Mental Health covered by the Health Plan - The GSA Health Plan now has an 80 per cent coverage rate (up to $800/year) for Mental Health Practitioners. Your plan includes coverage for psychologists, registered social workers, psychotherapists, and clinical counselors.
Dental Care - The GSA Dental Plan covers 60 to 70 per cent of your dental costs and by visiting dental professionals who are members of the Studentcare Networks, you can receive an additional 20 to 30 per cent coverage.
Student Legal Protection Program - Your GSA fees give you access to unlimited legal advice, accessible via a toll-free helpline: +1-833-202-4571. This advice covers topics including housing disputes, employment disputes, and disputes with an academic institution.
The Graduate House: Open Monday to Tuesday 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday to Friday 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. We’re open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members. The Graduate House is a community space run by the GSA-UW. We’re adding new items to the menu. Graduate students who paid their fees can get discounts and free coffee.
When and Where
Warriors vs. Laurier Blood Donation Battle. Join our “Waterloo Warriors” team on the Blood.ca website or app. #ItsInYouToGive
Warriors Game Day Tickets and Season Passes, on sale now. Cheer on your Warriors W/M Basketball, Football W/M Hockey and W/M Volleyball teams at home during the 2022-23 season. Purchase today.
Free Staff Workouts, Tuesdays and Thursdays until December 22, 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Bootcamp-style classes in the CIF Field House and PAC. Open to all staff and supported by the Staff Excellence Fund. Find out more/register now.
Flu shots available at Student Health Pharmacy, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., dial ext. 33784 for info.
Fall 2022 examination period, Friday, December 9 to Friday, December 23.
Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology and Health Initiatives presents Dr. Alan J. Forster, ‘Innovation at the Ottawa Hospital,’ Friday, December 16, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon on Zoom. Contact CBB for a Zoom link. Please note that this event is now taking place virtually.
NEW - Co-operative work term ends, Friday, December 23.
NEW - University holiday closure, Saturday, December 24 to Monday, January 2, 2023, Most University operations and buildings closed.
NEW - Deadline to register for Centre for Extended Learning (CEL) "Getting Ready to Facilitate Online Courses: TA Training – Winter 2023" course, Monday, January 30, 2023.