Students are at the heart of our work.
If you are an existing student at Waterloo, we are glad you are here and hope that we can support you in your journey. If you are considering Waterloo, we are excited you found us and hope that we can support you in your decision to make Waterloo a part of your future journey.
To help inform your decisions as a student or future student, find below resources, tools and supports
Student support specialists
Catherine Porter
Co-op Student Success Manager (Indigenous Relations)
Catherine Porter is positioned on the Co-op Student Experience Team within Cooperative and Experiential Education (CEE). Raised in Six Nations of the Grand River Territory (Cayuga Nation, Wolf Clan), Catherine brings a diverse background in communications and event management, with experience spanning multiple sectors both on and off-reserve.
She holds a Bachelor of Public Relations from Conestoga College and has worked with organizations such as the Niagara Peninsula Aboriginal Area Management Board (NPAAMB), Grand River Employment and Training (GREAT), and the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). Having completed three co-op work terms during her own post-secondary journey, Catherine is passionate about using her professional expertise and lived experience to empower students in achieving their career aspirations.
Here are some of the ways you could benefit from Catherine’s support:
- Connecting you with Indigenous employers to secure a more culturally relevant position or a position within your community/place of residence
- Connecting you with larger non-Indigenous employers who are looking to work with Indigenous students
- Career advice, advocacy, check-ins, and guidance throughout your work term
- Personalized support with communications such as: resumes, cover letters, funding, grant, and award applications
Contact information:
Catherine will be available for in-person drop-in support every Monday and Tuesday between 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Office of Indigenous Relations in EC5. Students may also book a virtual appointment.
Dr. Sarah Connors
Indigenous Naturopath
Dr. Sarah Connors ND is an Indigenous Naturopathic Doctor dedicated to promoting Generational Family Health, helping individuals and their families lead their healthiest lives. Drawing from her blended ancestry of European and Mohawk descent, she practices through the lens of Two-Eyed Seeing, integrating both Western and Indigenous healing approaches.
She earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in Health Studies, with a minor in Psychology, from the University of Waterloo, before graduating from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. During her clinical internship, she received specialized training in pediatric care and worked with the local Indigenous community at Anishnawbe Health Toronto.
In addition to her practice in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, Sarah collaborates with various Indigenous organizations both locally and in the Georgian Bay-Muskoka area.
Booking information:
To book with Dr. Sarah Connors, call Campus Wellness at 519-888-4096 or visit the Student Medical Clinic.
Lori Moses
Indigenous Student Service Specialist
Lori Moses (she/her) is an Indigenous Student Service Specialist located in the Student Service Centre (The Centre) on the first floor of Needles Hall. Lori can answer questions about admission, course enrolment, Quest, tuition, Indigenous verification, scholarships, bursaries, official letters and documents, and more.
Contact information:
Contact Lori at 519-888-4567, ext. 46785 or at l2moses@uwaterloo.ca or to book an in-person appointment.
Brad LeBarron
Indigenous Navigator, Campus Wellness
Brad has joined the Campus Wellness team to enhance culturally responsive and supportive services to Indigenous students. Brad brings with them excellent relationship-building skills, a strong commitment to supporting Indigenous communities, and a deep passion for making a positive impact on the lives of students. Brad is a member of the Algonquins of Pikwanagwan.
Brad will be working within a holistic Wellness Practice focusing on supporting Indigenous students through cultural teachings, wellness programming, and resources. His key responsibilities include facilitating workshops and wellness activities, smudging circles, and creating spaces for meditation and accessing traditional medicines. He will engage with Elders for support, provide training on Indigenous wellness, and collaborate with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners to ensure culturally safe experiences.
Contact information:
Email Brad at brad.lebarron@uwaterloo.ca to get in touch.
Student clubs and services
Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre
The Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC) is located at United College. They work to share Indigenous knowledge and provide culturally relevant information and support services within the University of Waterloo community, including Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, faculty and staff.
Indigenous Residence Community
In the Indigenous Living Learning Community, you will be connected with a group of other Indigenous students in United College to form meaningful relationships. Your Peer Leader will be another Indigenous student at the University of Waterloo who can support your experience as a first-year student and help you to access Indigenous supports on and off campus. You will also have the opportunity to engage in Indigenous events and socials to connect with your culture and bond with others through shared experience.
Canadian Indigenous Science and Engineering Society
The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) in Canada is an organization focused on supporting and creating a community for First Nations, Metis, and Inuit students in STEM. The AISES chapter at UWaterloo, invites any Engineering students to join and meet other Indigenous students at our school, and help grow themselves professionally as well as academically.