News

PhD candidate Nayadeth Arriagada is a finalist in the 2026 SSHRC Storytellers Challenge, a national competition that challenges postsecondary students nationwide to demonstrate how their research is positively influencing the world. Arriagada shares how her research rethinks gender, vulnerability and adaptation for small‑scale fisheries in Chile and beyond.

On May 21, you can help create life-changing opportunities for students, fuel bold ideas from our faculty and researchers, and strengthen the learning experiences that define Waterloo.

Congratulations to Joan Kaburia, Lauren McElroy, Izhaan Rauf and Dandin Wong!

Bashirah, a master's student in SEED, and Gurpreet, a PhD student in sustainability management were selected as finalists for the 2026 GRADflix video competition.

Matthew Woodward’s interest in geography was sparked in his early high school days. Both his brother, Ben Woodward, and a high school teacher of his, Ms. Anderson, planted the seed. Now, in his undergrad at the University of Waterloo, he has been named a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS), a great honour for any geographer. 

The Faculty of Environment celebrates 178 new graduates this fall, including the first class of the Master of Future Cities program and PhD Alumni Gold Medalist Dr. Michelle Anagnostou, whose groundbreaking research at Oxford is helping dismantle illegal wildlife trade networks.

Michael Brooks (BES ’75, PhD ’98) has spent decades shaping Canada’s real estate sector with vision, purpose, and a commitment to sustainable development. From his early days in urban planning at the University of Waterloo to leading REALPAC, he has advanced housing policy, championed mentorship, and fostered collaboration across the industry. His work continues to transform communities and inspire the next generation of real estate leaders. He is the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award winner.

Rex Auyeung (BES ’77) has dedicated his career to advancing sustainable urban development across finance, insurance, and transit. As Non-Executive Chairman of MTR Corporation, he oversees one of the world’s most advanced urban transit networks, while his lifelong commitment to public service and education continues to inspire communities in Hong Kong and beyond. He is the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award winner.

Jeff Willmer (BES ’86) has spent nearly three decades transforming the Waterloo Region through thoughtful urban planning, strategic municipal leadership and innovative community initiatives. From revitalizing Kitchener’s downtown to co-founding A Better Tent City, Jeff’s work demonstrates how planning, public service and social equity intersect to create lasting positive impact. He is the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award winner.

Ashoke Mohanraj (BES ’21) is an emerging leader shaping the intersection of environmental law, policy, and education. From advocating for climate justice on international platforms to inspiring young readers through his bestselling books, Ashoke’s interdisciplinary approach demonstrates how creativity, resilience, and civic engagement can drive meaningful change. Discover how his journey from the classroom to the courtroom is lighting the way for a sustainable future. He is the 2025 Recent Alumni Inspiration Award winner.