“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
Martin Luther King Jr.
Waterloo is recognized around the world for its accomplished alumni. With our 60th Anniversary Alumni Awards, we want to recognize a few who exemplify extraordinary University citizenship through volunteerism, mentorship, philanthropy and advocacy. These 12 people have kept the promise of Waterloo’s founders alive by investing in the next generation. Their disciplines are diverse: environmental studies, mathematics, philosophy, engineering, accounting and optometry. What unites them is their generosity and vision for a better future.
These alumni were celebrated at the President’s 60th Anniversary Gala in December 2017.
Chamath Palihapitiya, (BASc ’99), Founder and CEO, Social Capital
Brigette Lau, (BASc ’99), Co-founder and Partner, Social Capital
These entrepreneurs and philanthropists are using venture capital to create change on a global scale.
Marta Witer, (OD ’79) Bloor West Optometry
Witer’s first year in residence felt like being part of an extended family — now she’s part of an even bigger family as a member of the University’s Board of Governors.
David McKay, (BMath ’87), President and CEO, RBC
McKay leads one of the largest banks in Canada, but few know it all started with co-op — a program his company continues to support.
Ophelia Wai Fong Lazaridis, (BMath ’85), Director, Lazaridis Family Foundation
This alumnus elevates her community quietly, strategically and diligently, allowing the impact of her family’s generous gifts to make all the noise.
Robert Ewen, (BA ’71), National Bank Financial (retired)
This financial leader credits a love of philosophy for his business success, and continues to support the arts.
Toby Jenkins, (BES ’82) CEO, Integra 3D Research and Columbia Developments Inc.
Tom Jenkins, (LLD ’13 Honorary) Chair, OpenText Corporation and Chancellor, University of Waterloo
Long-time philanthropists Tom and Toby Jenkins are deeply proud of the University’s spirit of collaboration and reputation for turning theory into action.
Danny Ying, (BMath ’80), Business Development Director, Rockwell Collins
A global champion for the University of Waterloo, Ying dedicates his time to recruiting and mentoring students from his base in Hong Kong.
Karen Wilkinson, (MAcc ’90), President, Karen Wilkinson Professional Corporation
Wilkinson is a strong believer in giving back, and is extensively involved with the University and regularly engages with faculty and students.
John Albon Pollock, (LLD ’07 Honorary) Founder, President and CEO, Blairtech Investments Ltd.
This well-known philanthropist and community leader is a keen supporter of higher education.
Blair McArthur, (BASc ’85), President and CEO, Miller Group
This proud engineering alumnus continues to support Waterloo personally and through an enduring partnership with his company.
