Congratulations to the Class of 2024. We are so pleased to welcome our graduates and their family, friends and supporters to recognize their accomplishments.
Convocation is a time of immense pride and celebration across campus. This year, 13 outstanding students have been chosen to represent the graduating Class of 2024.
Below they share parts of their academic journey filled with innovation, growth and resilience.
Natasha J. Chen
The University of Waterloo has officially opened its state-of-the-art Inert Atmosphere Fabrication Lab (IAFL) as part of the Quantum-Nano Fabrication and Characterization Facility (QNFCF).
Many materials used in quantum-nano fabrication can easily react with oxygen, so they must be assembled in a special, oxygen-free environment. This lab was carefully designed and built by the QNFCF team, with help from Angstrom Engineering and JEOL USA, to support the quantum research community at the University of Waterloo and beyond.
The University of Waterloo has broken ground on the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI), the School of Optometry and Vision Science’s new centre of excellence in vision research, optometric education and patient care.
Former classmates reunited and celebrated graduation anniversaries at Reunion on May 31 and June 1, 2024.
The University of Waterloo’s campus was buzzing with activity from more than 30 events including campus tours, family activities and faculty receptions featuring updates on the latest news and visions for the future. This year, some alumni travelled long distances to return for Reunion — alumni from nine countries were represented.
As Spring 2024 Convocation approaches, it is also a time for students to reflect on their successes and achievements over their time here at Waterloo.
Among this year’s graduating class are a consort of recipients of the 2023 Co-op Student of the Year Award who were recognized for their exceptional contribution to their employers.
The University of Waterloo is proud to award a new group of honorary doctorates, the highest honour conferred by the University, at this year’s spring convocation ceremony.
Honorary doctorates are presented to inspiring individuals who provide exceptional service or leadership and those who have made outstanding contributions to their discipline. This year’s recipients have made significant global and societal impact through their personal experiences and fields in computing, mathematics, science and environmental studies.
The University of Waterloo, renowned globally for its innovative approach to education and talent development, extends its deepest gratitude to Dominic Barton for his exceptional service as its 11th chancellor.
Elected by the University’s Senate to a three-year term, the chancellor serves as the ceremonial head for the institution and presides over convocation ceremonies, conferring degrees, diplomas and certificates on graduating students. Barton was installed as chancellor in 2018 and reappointed for a second term in 2021.
This spring marks a significant milestone for WatSPEED, the University of Waterloo’s professional, executive and corporate education arm, as the team celebrates 1,000 days in operation.
WatSPEED's journey over the past 1,000 days includes the launch of flagship courses in generative AI, data science and machine learning, as well as enhanced partnerships and impactful events that support the unit's commitment to equipping Canadians with essential skills to navigate the evolving workforce.
The University of Waterloo is continuing its tradition of raising the Intersex-Inclusive Progress flag and the Two-Spirit Pride flag to acknowledge the University’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, where all individuals feel seen, valued and respected. The flag raising ceremony marks the beginning of Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month, and offers an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of both Indigenous and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities on campus and beyond.