As President Vivek Goel concludes his term, the University of Waterloo community recognizes a presidency defined by vision, collaboration, integrity and a deep commitment community.
From his appointment in 2021 to today, President Vivek Goel’s tenure reflects a period of steady progress and clear purpose at the University of Waterloo, setting the foundation for Waterloo’s next century. He united the community behind a bold vision for the future and advanced lasting progress in innovation, sustainability, and reconciliation.
“Whatever we have accomplished during my time as president belongs to this community,” Goel noted in a message to the campus community. “My role has been to listen, learn from you, and help move forward the many ideas that come from members of our community. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside you.”
Reflections on Vivek’s presidency
At a recent campus celebration, colleagues, students and partners reflected on President Goel’s impact over the past five years.
A defining aspect of Goel’s leadership has been his commitment to advancing equity, inclusion and reconciliation—work that members of the community say has helped strengthen the University in lasting ways.
“In Inuit culture, leadership is reflected in how a person brings people together, how they build relationships, and how they help to create conditions for others to thrive,” said Jean Becker, former Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations. “Your leadership here at Waterloo has reflected those values.”
Becker emphasized that reconciliation is an ongoing journey requiring “courage, humility, and a willingness to listen,” and recognized the meaningful progress made during Goel’s presidency.
“Under your leadership, the University of Waterloo has significantly advanced the journey to reconciliation,” she said, noting his support for initiatives that strengthen understanding, equity and belonging, and create opportunities for Indigenous voices to be heard.
“Leadership shows up when things don’t go according to plan,” said Mike Becks, former Director, Waterloo Special Constable Service reflecting on moments of uncertainty faced by the University. “Vivek demonstrated true leadership in situations that nobody could have anticipated,” grounding decisions in a genuine sense of care for the campus community.
That sense of humility and steadiness was echoed by student senator Jordan Bowman, who described Goel as “a model of sound and future-focused leadership,” noting his ability to remain thoughtful, measured and focused on the long term.
Jacinda Reitsma, Vice-President, Administration and Finance, reflected on the steady leadership Goel brought during periods of uncertainty.
“You have provided the calm and steady hand we needed to continue to move forward with clarity and—maybe even more importantly—with confidence,” she said. “You've shaped Waterloo in ways that will benefit faculty, staff and students for years to come.”
Honouring Vivek’s legacy
In recognition of Vivek’s legacy, the University announced the creation of the Our Values in Action Employee Recognition Awards, including the Vivek Goel Impact Award, which will honour individuals whose contributions reflect the values he championed and strengthen the culture of Waterloo.
The University is also marking his legacy through the Vivek Goel Tribute Fund, supporting continued progress in areas aligned with his leadership and impact.
Members of the community are invited to explore highlights from Dr. Goel’s presidency, including a timeline of milestones, photo gallery and reflections, on the Shaping Futures website, and to share well wishes.
What’s next for Vivek
While completing his term as president, Dr. Goel will remain an active member of the University community, continuing as a faculty member appointed jointly to the School of Pharmacy and School of Public Health Sciences, and contributing to work at the intersection of health, technology and society.
He will also continue to contribute his expertise in the community and public discourse as a member on the Waterloo Region Health Network (WRHN) Board of Directors. Next academic year, he will be on research leave as a Distinguished Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy at the University of Toronto pursuing research in innovation policy.The University of Waterloo community thanks Vivek Goel for his leadership, his service and the lasting impact of his time as president, and looks forward to his continued contributions as a valued member of the Waterloo community.
