Dean Wells remembers student Oren Zernov

Dear Colleagues,

It is with the deepest sadness that I share the news of the passing of Oren Zernov, a University of Waterloo second-year Chemical Engineering student, on April 24th, 2022.

He was a diligent student who worked hard with great anticipation for becoming an engineer. Oren’s family has been heartened by the many positive letters and messages that they have received from his friends and fellow students.

Oren was known as a very thoughtful student who was always helping others and worked to make other people’s lives better. Many friends shared specific stories with his parents of how Oren made them feel good and happy. Oren will be remembered as a bright, enthusiastic student, a true friend, and a loving son.

Oren’s family have held a memorial service. As he was just starting his third co-op term, the Department of Chemical Engineering is planning to hold a service to remember Oren in the fall as his cohort returns to campus for classes. My thoughts and prayers go out to Oren’s family and his friends as they grieve his loss.

Please know that there are counselling services available to help deal with the painful news of the passing of a fellow student and friend. You can contact any of these available resources:

Support for Students

Counselling Services - 519-888-4567 ext. 42655 (new extension)

EmpowerMe , Student Assistance Program

Student Health Benefit (for private counselling)

UW Chaplains

Mates - mates@wusa.ca

Here 24/7 - 1-844-437-3247
Health Services - Student Medical Clinic - 519-888-4096
Grand River Hospital - 519-749-4300
St. Mary's Hospital - 519-744-3311
Good2Talk - 1-866-925-5454
Crisis Services Canada - 1-833-456-4566 or by texting 45645