Community

December 6, 1989. That day, which cast a shadow on all our campuses, is forever etched in my memory. I was a recent engineering student graduate from McGill University when 14 women were murdered at École Polytechnique de Montréal in an antifeminist mass shooting. Twelve of the women killed were engineering students. All engineers around the world were forever impacted by this day and the loss of their future colleagues and peers.

The University of Waterloo celebrates the life and legacy of former-president Dr. James (Jim) Downey on November 25 in a special ceremony and reception.

The in-person event is also being live-streamed on the University’s YouTube channel.

Downey was born in Winterton, Newfoundland in 1939. He completed a BA, BEd and MA at Memorial University, and then a PhD in English at the University of London. Among his many accolades, Downey was a recipient of the Order of Canada and was awarded eight honorary degrees.

Thirty years ago, the United Nations proclaimed December 3rd as International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) “to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The theme of this year’s IDPD is Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.

Unnecessary use and misuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobials are increasing the serious problem of antimicrobial resistance. Over time bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change, and as a result, drug resistance can occur where infections that were previously easily treated become difficult to treat.

Antimicrobial resistance ranks among the top ten global public health threats, according to the World Health Organization.

With technology ranging from saltwater batteries, autonomous on-wire robots, and voice-activated monitoring devices, six early-stage companies are joining Velocity full-time through Venture Ready, a program for full-time founders to assess their company’s market preparedness.

A day where a veterinary professional can spend two fewer hours on administrative work means more meaningful care for pets. Risk assessment engines powered by robots translate to a future without power outages.

The University of Waterloo announces, with deep sadness, the death of  Ethan Dhoum. Ethan was a second-year Science student. 

Ethan is fondly remembered by his friends and classmates and those in his community in Waterloo, and at home as a kind person who was always helping others. He was active with the Malton Aquatic club. 

Ethan’s family will be holding a public memorial and funeral service on Wednesday, November 23: 

Public Visitation: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Funeral Service: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Even at the young age of seven, Jackson is well aware there are plenty of unknowns when it comes to the universe. He’s eager to discuss supernovas, what makes up the universe and gets visibly excited over the prospect of what — or whom — might exist behind a black hole.

I love outer space and the universe, the stars and planets like Jupiter. I think scientists have the best job because they ask questions and then tell us what they found. And then I think maybe I can do that when I’m bigger. That would be pretty cool.

Every November and December, we hear a lot about giving. No matter what you're celebrating this holiday season, you're sure to be inundated with messages of spending time with loved ones, giving thoughtful gifts and giving back to others. These are the things that make December the most wonderful time of the year, right?

Past and present students, donors, faculty and staff gathered to celebrate the exceptional achievements of eight alumni and a long-time supporter of the Faculty.

The Homelessness Initiative is a jointly funded, community-based research initiative which has awarded two $25,000 grants to projects studying homelessness and recommending new and innovative solutions to the problem.