Community

Throughout the year, we’re proud to share stories of numerous Black entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, scientists and community builders in the University of Waterloo’s alumni network. 

These alumni are shaping the histories of tomorrow, by using artistry for personal expression, making risky career changes, influencing innovation in the entrepreneurial world, combatting societal issues, and forging communities of love and support.

Below, you’ll find a compilation of 15 unique stories that showcase the Black alumni experience at Waterloo. Keep reading to discover the diverse accomplishments and inspirations of our Black alumni.

Using artistry for personal expression

As Waterloo welcomes faculty, staff and students back for in-person learning and working experiences, the University has updated a number of measures to keep our community safe and healthy.

At the University of Waterloo, we’re continuously monitoring and updating our protocols to align with public health guidelines.

The University has been made aware of a planned protest in Uptown Waterloo beginning at noon on Saturday, February 5 and running until noon on Sunday, February 6 in and around the Waterloo Public Square. It is possible that these protests will extend into next week.

We advise you to exercise caution if you are in the area around Uptown Waterloo during this time.

Diversity in STEM is expanding with help from one of Canada’s largest financial institutions.

With a contribution of $1.04 million to the University of Waterloo, Scotiabank is providing support for talented researchers and students, including scholarships for students who are underrepresented in STEM fields. The investment is part of ScotiaRISE, the bank’s 10-year, $500 million initiative to promote economic resilience among disadvantaged groups.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Professor Mark Servos has been working tirelessly to contribute towards our understanding of COVID-19, leading wastewater testing efforts locally and across Canada. His research has recently been highlighted in the media as wastewater surveillance becomes a significant tool in our community’s efforts to track the spread of COVID-19, and his efforts are being recognized with a Minister of Colleges and Universities' Awards of Excellence.

From worldwide protests to the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), climate change is a hot topic in the media and news today. You may have heard of carbon emissions and carbon footprints before. But what does it really mean? How does it apply to our daily lives and personal choices? What actions can we take to reduce them?