It is with great sadness that we share the news of Joe Bevan’s passing, a staff member in the Faculty of Environment.
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.
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.
Under bright autumn skies and the buzz of conversation, the Faculty of Environment community gathered on the EV3 Green for its annual Fall Food Truck Social; a celebration of connection, conversation, and great tastes.
Dr. Larry Swatuk, professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development, has retired after 17 impactful years at the University of Waterloo. A globally recognized scholar in natural resource management and international development, Larry helped shape key academic programs and brought a spirit of energy and collaboration to the Faculty of Environment. His leadership and legacy will continue to influence generations of students and researchers.
The Faculty of Environment is pleased to announce that Dr. Ian Rowlands has been appointed Associate Dean, Graduate Studies, effective September 1, 2025. He succeeds Dr. Peter Deadman, who is beginning a sabbatical after three years of dedicated leadership.