Faculty of Environment celebrates fall 2026 graduates
On Friday, October 23, 179 Environment students became alumni as they crossed the convocation stage before family and friends, marking the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance.
The ceremony celebrated the Faculty of Environment’s fall 2026 graduates.
As guests took their seats, excitement and anticipation filled the room as families and friends searched the crowd for their graduates, eager to celebrate their achievements.
University of Waterloo president Bill Rosehart encouraged graduates to take a moment to wave to their supporters in recognition of the encouragement and guidance that helped them reach this milestone.
Following the opening remarks, valedictorian and Master of Earth Sciences student Shahriyer Hossain Shetu delivered a heartfelt address to fellow graduates, reflecting on the challenges, growth and experiences that shaped his journey at Waterloo. He encouraged his fellow graduates to dream big and embrace the opportunities ahead.
Valedictorian Shahriyer Hossain Shetu
“We came from stardust. Now we get to take care of the planet that made us and the people living on it. So, find that dream job that sounds crazy to everyone else but feels like a destiny to you and chase it.”
During the conferral of degrees, 72 undergraduate, 93 master’s and 14 PhD students received their degrees. As each graduate was recognized, cheers, applause and celebratory whoops rang out from proud families and friends throughout the audience.
After crossing the stage, graduates and their guests gathered on BMH Green to celebrate their achievement. The space was buzzing with celebration as graduates posed for photos, embraced their loved ones and accepted gifts. Environment graduates were also invited to the Faculty of Environment graduation tent, where they collected their graduation gift and commemorated their achievement with mentors, classmates and friends.
From right to left: Karlyn Dion (MES), Dr. Amelia Clarke (supervisor), Dr. Naima Samuel (PhD) and Dr. Jillene Diamond Marlowe (PhD).
For many, convocation marked the end of their journey at Waterloo, but it also opened the door to new adventures. As these alumni leave Waterloo they carry the knowledge, passion and experience necessary to work with the world, for the world - to leave it a better place. Congratulations graduates!
