If you have been a grad student in the Department of Physics and Astronomy over the past 22 years, you’ve certainly had the pleasure of working with our Graduate Coordinator, Judy McDonnell. Judy has been a constant support to students, faculty and staff, always offering a warm smile as you enter her office. When Judy first started working in the department, there were only 32 graduate students. The student complement has since grown to over 250 students. Judy has continued to offer the same great support to students in the midst of so much change and growth.
In June of this year, Judy will be retiring. The following are some memories shared by those who have worked closely with her over the years. As you can see, Judy has had a profound impact on this department.
“When we think of universities, we think of rules and regulations, budgets and buildings. But at their heart, universities are really groups of people. Whether things work, how things seem, how well we do; it all comes down to the people.
As graduate officer I have worked closely with Judy for several years now. She's one of the people who really keeps the heart of the department beating, getting things done, but also caring about others along the way. For our 250-odd graduate students, she makes sure the right forms get filled out, the cheques get issued, exams are set and passed, scholarships are awarded, and degrees are completed. Every student who goes through our system owes her a debt of gratitude, whether they realize it or not.
I am less exemplary in the performance of my duties, and regularly need to be coaxed and reminded (as I imagine most graduate officers do). But Judy is there like a rock every day, calm and efficient through the endless challenges, as people struggle through this culmination of their training and education. She doesn't just take care of our students' affairs and records; she also cares about them as people. I am glad she has a happy, relaxing retirement planned, but we'll all be sad to see her go.”
- James Taylor, Graduate Officer
“When I was in my MSc at Waterloo, Judy patiently guided me through the complex maze of graduate student life. When I became faculty, Judy continued to guide me and my students through the same maze. I can't thank her enough for all her kindness and support throughout the years.”
- Professor and former graduate student, Roger Melko
“Judy has served as Graduate Co-ordinator since I arrived and has served in that roll tremendously. I can not count the number of times I have asked if I have forgotten and mission critical paperwork and Judy knows and can find out quickly. She has served our grad-students well and will be missed.”
- Current PhD Candidate, Steven Turnbull
“It was always fun for me to walk over to the Physics building or pick up the phone to talk to Judy. Sometimes just hearing about the cruises she has been on and planning was good for the soul. I wish lots of trips over land and sea in the next phase of her life!”
- Norbert Lutkenhaus, Former Graduate Officer
“Judy is not only a great co-worker but she is a great person as well. I will miss her smile and her welcoming ways. No matter how busy she was when I would ask her something, no matter how many times I asked her the same questions, she was always welcoming. I hope one day to become as organized as Judy. Don’t kill too many plants on retirement!”
- Anja Drygala, Financial Officer
We all wish Judy the very best and look forward to hearing about her next adventure!
Keep in touch, Judy!!
