Celebrating the Class of 2023

The buzz of pride and celebration was palpable across campus over the past few days as convocation ceremonies took place. Convocation season is always special because it’s the one time when family, friends, faculty and staff all come together to celebrate the hard work and achievements of Waterloo students.

The 127th convocation was not only a celebration — it was also a coming together by many members of our community to make the ceremonies and events memorable for graduating students. Making the Fall 2023 Convocation a success were ambassadors, ushers, wayfinders and accessibility assistants, comprised of 74 staff volunteers and 118 students, who served thousands of Waterloo graduates and their families.

“This past weekend, we had the privilege of meeting and hearing from many of Waterloo’s newest batch of graduates. I feel a great sense of pride and hope for our future, knowing that as the world continues to face multiple crises, these new Waterloo graduates will join those before them as leaders and change-makers to address these challenges,” said Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor.  

A memorable celebration

As 1,320 undergraduates, 1,061 master's and 153 PhD students graduated along with three honorary doctorate recipients, we share some of the memorable moments from Fall 2023 Convocation.

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Inspiring words

Dr. Margaret Mutumba (PhD ’23) took the stage to address the faculties of Health and Science and shared words of support and encouragement. An entrepreneur and global health innovator, Mutumba is the founder MedAtlas, a digital health company that connects patients to specialist care across Africa.

"In these unprecedented, volatile and uncertain times, we need more people that are willing to try what they have never tried before, face up to novel challenges and opportunities, speaking up in times of adversity and daring to do things differently." said Mutumba.

"Take in this moment, hold on to it and carry it with you into the world. When doubt and uncertainty try to weigh you down, pause and come back to this moment and remember, this day. You did it once, you can do it again. You did it here, at Waterloo! So, you will do it out there too! Yes?"