Congratulations, Class of 2026

Spring 2026 Convocation brought together family, friends, faculty and staff to celebrate the resilience, dedication and achievements of Waterloo students many of whom completed their studies during some of the most challenging times in recent history. 

For five straight days and 14 ceremonies, the Waterloo campus was filled with pride, joy and a shared sense of accomplishment. The University’s 132nd convocation marked a significant milestone of graduating 7,349 students who are now part of Waterloo’s global network of more than 263,000 alumni.   

“I was pleased to share in the celebrations of Waterloo’s newest batch of alumni,” says Vivek Goel, President and Vice-Chancellor. “As our graduates join this global network, they strengthen the connection between Waterloo and communities everywhere. They are the innovators, leaders and changemakers who will help tackle global challenges and shape a better future for people and the planet. 

“This year’s ceremonies are especially meaningful to me as it’s my final convocation as President. I leave inspired by the talent and potential of our graduates, and deeply grateful to be part of this community.” 

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team ensured each ceremony ran seamlessly. A total of 191 staff volunteers, alongside 145 student helpers — including ambassadors, ushers, wayfinders, stage crew and accessibility assistants — supported thousands of graduates and their loved ones, helping create a memorable and meaningful convocation experience for all.

Relive the celebrations

A lasting legacy: Dr. Vivek Goel named President Emeritus

At the final convocation ceremony on June 20, Chancellor Dr. Jagdeep Baccher conferred upon Dr. Vivek Goel the title of President Emeritus. Since joining the University of Waterloo in 2021, President Goel united the community around a bold, forward-looking vision and laid the groundwork for the institution’s next century. He strengthened collaboration across disciplines and deepened partnerships with government, industry, and the broader community. Through initiatives such as Waterloo at 100, Global Futures, and the introduction of new institutional values, he positioned the university to meet complex global challenges with purpose and impact. President Goel’s term concludes on June 30.

Watch the full conferral on YouTube 

Embracing the “lag phase” on the path to becoming

Be patient with yourself as you grow — even when that growth isn’t visible — because becoming who you’re meant to be takes time, resilience and trust in the process. This was the message Faculty of Science valedictorian Jesse Le shared with her graduating class on June 19. 

“Our time at the University of Waterloo wasn’t about becoming perfect; it was about becoming prepared. I have watched this class navigate the pressures of being under construction, and because I’ve seen the persistence we’ve shown in our collective lag phase, I have complete faith in the brilliant evolution that lies ahead for each of us.” 

Watch Le’s full speech on YouTube 

First graduates of a pioneering sustainability program

In 2021, a group of 12 students admitted to the Accounting and Financial Management program took a chance on a new, untested path — Waterloo’s Sustainability and Financial Management (SFM) program, the first degree of its kind to combine expertise from the School of Accounting and Finance and the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development. 

With no graduates to look to or employer track record to cite, they relied on a clear signal from industry: demand was growing for professionals fluent in both finance and sustainability. 

On June 18, that inaugural cohort crossed the convocation stage as the program’s first graduates and each of them has a next step. Six are continuing into the Master of Accounting, while six have secured full-time roles, including five in sustainability and ESG (environmental, social and governance) focused positions. 

SFM Class of 2026 cheer on BMH Green after crossing the convocation stage

A heartfelt tribute during convocation

In an emotional moment during a Faculty of Engineering convocation ceremony, Ljubica Lolic (BASc ’26) was awarded a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Biomedical Engineering posthumously. The degree was accepted by her brother, Lazar Lolic, while their parents looked on from the audience. 

Watch the moment her degree was awarded 

Waterloo researchers, students and alumni approach challenges differently. We anticipate our newest cohort of alumni will unlock barriers by working together to develop creative approaches across disciplines for a better future.  

Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and welcome to Waterloo’s distinguished global network of alumni.