Community

Whether it’s flooding in Toronto or forest fires raging in Alberta and Manitoba, climate change is pushing natural disasters into populated areas and having a dire impact on communities.

The threat to many homeowners extends beyond property damage and risk of life. The value of their homes and properties could be at risk.

The Future Cities Institute founded by CAIVAN (FCI) at the University of Waterloo is teaming up with BUILD NOW to redefine what affordable, attainable housing looks like in Waterloo Region, and beyond.

At the heart of this ambitious collaboration is an urgent question with national attention: how can Canada create affordable and sustainable paths to home ownership, especially for the next generation?

Dr. Raymond Laflamme, a trailblazer in quantum information processing and pioneer of the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) at the University of Waterloo, died on June 19 after a lengthy battle with cancer. 

As a hub of entrepreneurship and innovation, it’s no surprise that companies and founders linked to the University of Waterloo have a noticeable presence among those featured within BetaKit’s Most Ambitious List.

Waterloo ranks as the top university in Canada for startup founders and 21st in the world according to the Pitchbook University Rankings. Recently released data shows that Velocity, Waterloo’s core entrepreneurship incubator, has more than 500 companies with a combined enterprise value of $40 billion.

National Indigenous History Month invites all of us to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, contributions and communities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. At the University of Waterloo, this month also encourages reflection, learning, and a deepened commitment to reconciliation. 

The University of Waterloo is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaron Pereira as executive director of WatSPEED, the University’s professional, executive and corporate education arm. 

The University of Waterloo startup ecosystem has long been a driver of innovation across its campuses, in Waterloo region and around the world. Entrepreneurship is woven deep within the Waterloo DNA and continues to grow and prosper because of a solid foundation of support and resources.

As Waterloo Region grows closer to the 2050 projection of one million people, it faces challenges shared with many growing regions and municipalities across Canada. This hopeful milestone comes with big questions about infrastructure, housing, transit, livability and the overall readiness of the region to support its residents in responsible, resilient ways.

Spring 2025 Convocation was a spectacular celebration of dedication, resilience and triumph. As graduates crossed the stage, their hard work and perseverance shone brightly after navigating some of the most challenging times in recent history, including beginning their degrees during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Across five days and 14 vibrant ceremonies, Waterloo’s campus came alive with the cheers of proud families, friends, faculty and staff — all gathered to honour the incredible accomplishments of our graduating students. 

“It’s like coming home.” 

Shirley San Diego (BASc ’00) was smiling ear to ear as she walked around campus at Reunion with her husband, Chan Lam (BASc ’00), and their two kids. Since they were making the trip to Waterloo from San Franciso, they decided to stay overnight in Mackenzie King Village, a University residence that offers summer accommodations. 

“I used to live in Village 2,” Shirley said. “Staying here and walking on campus feels so familiar, almost automatic.”