This fall, we welcome our graduands back to campus for the University of Waterloo’s 125th convocation. It is my honour, as president and vice-chancellor, to participate in these ceremonies. 

Convocation recognizes years of hard-work and commitment that launch graduands towards exciting ventures and careers. These graduands join an illustrious community of more than 200-thousand global thinkers who are making a lasting impact on the world around us. That impact reflects the original vision of the institution’s founders who sought to create a university that would help tackle some of the world’s most daunting challenges.  

Over the course of their studies, these graduands have demonstrated a resiliency that will serve them well in the next stages of their lives. They have persevered through a pandemic, and kept their focus when it could have easily been lost. The lessons they learned during their time at Waterloo whether in the lecture hall, lab or elsewhere will play an integral role in their on-going success.  

Our institution’s rich history and the success of our alumni is rooted in community. This year’s graduating class has left an indelible mark on our institution, and I am confident they will maintain a strong connection to Waterloo as a result. 

The University’s motto “Concordia cum veritate” means “in harmony with truth.” As our 2022 graduands begin the next chapter of their journey, I encourage them to think unconventionally. We live in a world mired in geo-political, environmental and health challenges. Regardless of one’s discipline, we all hold a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in our community and in the world. I encourage our graduates to take what they’ve learned at Waterloo and shape our world’s future for the better.  

Of special note for those who graduated prior to fall 2022 (during the pandemic) and missed an opportunity to participate in an in-person convocation, we are excited to offer you an opportunity to attend a future convocation and participate in the ceremony by walking across the stage. Learn more about how to register at our convocation website.  

On behalf of the University of Waterloo, I wish the classes of 2022 all the best in the journey ahead.