March 9, 2026
Dr. Bill Rosehart named next President and Vice‑Chancellor of the University of Waterloo
Transformational academic leader and Waterloo alum appointed as the University’s eighth president
Dr. Bill Rosehart, a nationally respected academic leader, scholar and three‑time University of Waterloo graduate (PhD ’01, MASc ’97, BASc ’96), has been appointed the next President and Vice‑Chancellor of the University of Waterloo. His five‑year term will begin on July 1, 2026.
Dr. Rosehart brings more than two decades of senior leadership experience at major Canadian research universities, including serving as Provost and Vice‑President, Academic at the University of Guelph and Dean of the Schulich School of Engineering at the University of Calgary. Across both institutions, he has led large‑scale academic transformation, strengthened research and teaching capacity, and advanced student‑centred, experiential learning.
A three‑time Waterloo engineering graduate, Dr. Rosehart has a deep appreciation for the University’s bold founding vision and its globally recognized integration of experiential learning, entrepreneurship, and research excellence. His leadership career consistently reflects these strengths: he is known for guiding institutions through periods of significant change with clarity, collaboration and principled decision‑making.
“Waterloo was founded on a bold idea: that integrating academics with real-world experience could redefine higher education and strengthen society. That spirit of unconventional thinking remains its greatest strength, and I am excited to return to help build on that foundation,” said Dr. Rosehart.
“We have an extraordinary opportunity to lead Canada and the world in AI and human-centred digital futures, in health and social innovation, in climate resilience, in the arts and across the full breadth of a comprehensive university. By working together, setting ambitious goals and aligning our resources behind clear priorities, we can ensure Waterloo continues to shape talent, ideas and solutions that matter in Canada and around the world,” he said.
The appointment follows a comprehensive search process led by the Presidential Nominating Committee, which included broad consultation with Waterloo faculty, staff, students and community partners.
“Dr. Rosehart impressed the Presidential Nominating Committee with his genuine, people-centred approach to leadership and his clear understanding of what makes a comprehensive university thrive,” said Murray Gamble, Chair of the Board of Governors. “He is a collaborative relationship builder and a careful listener who brings integrity, respect and a deep appreciation for the people that make up a university — its faculty, staff and students. As a three-time Waterloo graduate, he understands the ethos of our institution.”
A values‑driven leader who champions Indigenization, equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility, Dr. Rosehart embedded EDIA and Indigenous engagement within academic strategy, supporting new curriculum pathways, leadership roles, awards, and partnerships with Indigenous communities at both Calgary and Guelph.
“Bill really cares about people and their success, which extends to his strong and genuine commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenous relations. Bill believes deeply in the importance of a comprehensive university — one that values engineering and the liberal arts alike. Bill is credibly inspirational, empowering those around him to succeed, and the committee has great faith in his ability to lead Waterloo through its next chapter,” said Gamble.
Dr. Vivek Goel, Waterloo’s current President and Vice-Chancellor who will complete his term on June 30, 2026, welcomed the announcement of his successor.
“I am delighted to welcome Dr. Rosehart back to his alma mater to become the first Waterloo alumnus to serve as president. His track record of transformational leadership, his commitment to inclusive excellence, and his deep understanding of experiential education position him exceptionally well to guide Waterloo into its next chapter,” said President Goel. “Under his leadership, I am confident that Waterloo will continue to drive innovation and make meaningful contributions locally, nationally, and globally.”
Dr. Goel has served as President and Vice‑Chancellor since July 2021. Through his five-year term he united the community behind a bold long-term vision for Waterloo and advanced lasting progress in innovation, sustainability and reconciliation.
A respected researcher in electrical energy systems, Dr. Rosehart has published extensively and supervised more than 30 graduate students. His numerous distinctions include fellowship in the Canadian Academy of Engineering, the Engineering Institute of Canada and the Canadian Society for Senior Engineers.
Read more about the President Designate.
