A chemical engineering professor has been recognized for extraordinary contributions to advancing equity and inclusion in Canadian academia.
Dr. Tizazu Mekonnen was celebrated earlier today at a university-wide reception as a recipient of the 2024 Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo (FAUW) Equity & Inclusivity Award. As the inaugural director of the Indigenous and Black Engineering and Technology (IBET) PhD Project, he has increased opportunities for Indigenous and Black scholars–historically underrepresented in engineering and computer science across Canada.
Under Mekonnen’s leadership, IBET has grown to include over 60 fellows at 19 Canadian post-secondary institutions, offering financial support, mentorship and industry connections to advance their academic and professional success.
“Dr. Mekonnen is a scholar of immense talent, a deeply dedicated mentor, and a visionary leader whose work is truly reshaping Canadian academia for the better [through IBET],” said Mary Wells, dean of engineering.
Go to Professor Tizazu Mekonnen wins the Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo (FAUW) Equity & Inclusivity Award to read more about Mekonnen’s achievements and his work with IBET.
Dr. Tizazu Mekonnen (left) is a 2024 recipient of the FAUW Equity & Inclusivity Award.