News

The Faculty of Environment is delighted to welcome Dr. Adwoa Appiah as the newest professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development. Starting this February, Dr. Appiah will bring her extensive expertise in sustainable finance, ESG integration, and the role of financial institutions in advancing sustainable development to the school.

The Faculty of Environment and the Canadian Wildlife Federation have signed a memorandum of understanding to pursue new conservation and education projects together.

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Michael Wood will continue serving as associate dean, work integrated learning, to strengthen opportunities for students to gain first-hand insight into how technology, sustainability and disruption are reshaping work. 

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Joe Bevan’s passing, a staff member in the Faculty of Environment. 

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.

For over a decade, Co-operators and Farm Mutual Re have partnered with the Faculty of Environment to advance flood preparedness and climate adaptation across Canada. Through applied research, innovative tools, and student mentorship, they are helping communities build resilience to climate hazards. Their collaboration demonstrates how industry and academia can work together to create lasting, equitable impact. They are the 2025 Friend of the Faculty Award winner.

The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) has announced Dr. Peter Crank as one of this year’s recipients of the John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF). He will receive $78,000 for his project: Addressing urban (over)heating in a warming climate.