Another challenging year couldn’t stop Waterloo alumni from shining.

Around the world, our talented graduates are smashing glass ceilings, breaking Guinness records, pursuing cancer research and more. Keep reading to discover some of the most inspiring alumni stories of 2021.


Seven Waterloo alumni smashing glass ceilings

From helping stroke victims through STEM research to taking climate action, read about seven Waterloo women who are challenging gender stereotypes and making an impact in the world.

Jump-start your fitness routine with these tips from a Guinness record holder

As a gym owner, Nick Anapolsky (BA ’14) took motivating his clients to the next level and broke a Guinness world record. Take note of his helpful tips for a successful fitness routine.

Nick Anapolsky stands in his gym

My fate

It’s never too late to get a university degree. In this piece, Carolyn Muir Helfenstein (BIS ’13) shares her life’s story from childhood to graduating from Waterloo at age 73.



 A virtual run for hope

Anetta Ille (BSc ’19) was diagnosed with cancer at the age of three. Today, she and her brother Alex Ille (BSc ’15) are pursuing biomedical research to help other children diagnosed with life-threatening diseases.

Anetta and Alex Ille

PODCAST: The unlikely co-founders

Starting a company was the last thing on Helen Huang’s (BSc ’17) mind. On the other hand, it was Sefunmi Osinaike’s (BASc ’17) dream. Plug in your earbuds and listen to their unconventional entrepreneurial story in this podcast episode.

How a second chance inspired a legacy gift

Eric Celentano (BSc ’79) received life-saving surgery in 2018. In this piece, Eric shares why he decided to give back by including Waterloo in his will.

From acting to brewing a business

Learn how the theatre program at Waterloo prepared Chris Goddard (BA ’01) for a successful career as a beer entrepreneur.   

Co-op for a better world

Working in the non-profit sector is a very rewarding and impactful experience. Read how donors like John Hamilton (BA ’73) make this possible for charities and co-op students.

Warrior stories of inspiration

Can you think of the one person who made the biggest impact during your years at Waterloo? Hear from four different alumni as they reflect on their time at university and highlight the Waterloo community member who made a difference in their student experience.

Life lessons from the football field

Former Warriors quarterback Greg Somerville (BA ‘78) shares how he used his experience from the football field to build a successful business career post-graduation, and why he gave a generous gift to support student-athletes today.

Warriors football team  picture, circa 1970s