United College names next Chancellor
New Chancellor is a Waterloo alum and citizenship judge who has dedicated the past 50 years to serving Canada
United College, located at the University of Waterloo, has named Judge Albert Wong, a retired lieutenant commander in the Canadian Armed Forces and a Waterloo alum recognized for exemplary service to the country, as its next Chancellor.
Judge Wong, a citizenship judge who earned a degree in kinesiology from Waterloo (BSc ‘80), received an honorary Doctor of Laws in 2025 for dedicating his career to fostering social cohesion.
“Judge Wong exemplifies United College’s commitment to relationship-building and to social justice. He has dedicated his professional career to strengthening communities and has extensive experience in bringing people together for social good,” said Dr. Tracy Penny Light, President of United College. “His enthusiasm for the College’s mission, as well as his personal alignment to our values, make him a wonderful fit for the role of Chancellor.”
Judge Wong immigrated to Canada in 1971 and joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1976. During his 40-year career in the military, he was a top public-affairs professional, working on issues of national security and emergency management. He also served on peacekeeping missions in Eritrea and Ethiopia, in addition to being a member of the Canadian Strategic Advisory Team that supported President Hamid Karzai and his cabinet in strengthening government services in Afghanistan. Since becoming a citizenship judge in 2014, he has sworn in more than 300,000 new Canadians.
Judge Wong is also highly involved in community volunteerism, holding roles including Chair of the Mississauga Board of Chinese Professionals and Businesses and a member of the Senate of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada (Princess Louise's), an infantry unit of the Canadian Army Reserve.
In recognition of his service, Judge Wong has received numerous awards, including the Canadian Forces’ Decoration, the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals, the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal, the United Nations Mission in Eritrea and Ethiopia Medal, and the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal.
“I believe that United College’s commitment to bringing students together to live, learn and engage with social issues is so critical. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed how collaboration and education can build strong, connected communities,” Judge Wong said. “The College plays a vital role in shaping futures, strengthening communities and making a meaningful impact in the world. I am truly honoured to be selected to serve as its next Chancellor.”
As Chancellor, Judge Wong will serve as an ambassador for United College, representing the College at ceremonial and official events, and as a member of its Board of Governors.
He was elected by the Board of Governors for a three-year term. His installation ceremony will take place in January 2027.
(Banner image by Megpie Creative)