Community

Convocation marks a significant milestone for University of Waterloo graduates. This year, 14 outstanding students have been chosen to represent the graduating Class of 2025.

Their selection as valedictorians demonstrates their dedication and creativity within their faculties. Below, they share parts of their academic journeys filled with inspiring tales of overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities for growth.

For Eloise Fan, studying at the University of Waterloo was never about choosing a single path — it was about creating one that merged her passions for theatre and climate change.  

As she graduates with a joint honours degree in Environment, Resources and Sustainability and Theatre and Performance (co-op), she is being awarded the Alumni Gold Medal for outstanding academic achievement in the Faculty of Environment as well as the Departmental Award for distinguished academic achievement. 

For 100 years, Canadian-trained engineers have participated in The Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer, an annual event at which they take an oath to uphold their profession’s values and in return, receive an iron ring—a small but mighty symbol of their solemn commitment to serve society. 

For University of Waterloo alum Stephanie Thompson (BASc ’01), the ring is a unifier, reminding all who wear it to do work that pays attention to technical excellence but also, crucially, to how the work they do impacts people’s lives.  

On May 22 at Federation Hall, TD Wealth and the University of Waterloo brought together a dynamic group of thinkers, leaders and changemakers to discuss the evolving role of philanthropy in building resilient communities, talent pipelines and a future shaped by purpose.

University of Waterloo alumni, staff and students are among the winners of the 2025 Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest Rogers Women of the Year awards.

For 50 years, the organization has recognized exceptional leaders for their contributions to the local community. The awards were given out at a ceremony on May 22, 2025, and several of the recipients have connections to the University.

The story of the Waterloo Magazine is a tapestry woven with threads of history, community, innovation and evolution. As the final planned issue of the magazine hits mailboxes and inboxes to make way for exciting new changes, we revisit key moments that have shaped this publication into a cherished beacon for the University of Waterloo alumni community.

Jennifer Lee (BA ’00), vice-chair and senior partner at Deloitte Canada, believes that strong networks and relationships are key to advancing gender equality and empowering women in the workplace.  

Jennifer Lee (BA ’00)
Vice-chair and senior partner, Deloitte Canada