Waterloo names triple alum Dr. Jagdeep Singh Bachher as chancellor

Jagdeep Singh Bachher is chief investment officer and vice president of investments at the 10-campus University of California, where he oversees an investment portfolio of $164 billion. He is a triple alum of the University of Waterloo, having earned a Bachelor of Applied Science, Mechanical Engineering in 1993, a Master of Applied Science, Management Sciences in 1994, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Management Sciences in 2000.

“Jagdeep exemplifies the type of dynamic leader that the University of Waterloo develops: a champion of curiosity, exploration, risk-taking, entrepreneurship, global stewardship and leadership,” said Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor. “At the University of California, he fosters the same values that Waterloo extols, including a commitment to sustainable investing and a dedication to equity, diversity and inclusion.” 

Bachher often acclaims Waterloo’s pioneering co-op program for having changed his life. “My passion for education and its power to transform lives comes directly from my parents, both of whom have been teachers, in India, Africa, and in Waterloo, for more than 60 years,” he said. “It’s because of them that I enrolled at Waterloo when I was 15, having just arrived with my family from Nigeria, where I was born. I’m humbled by this great honour and privilege of becoming chancellor at Waterloo, which has given me so much.”

The outlines of Bachher’s story are familiar to many of Waterloo’s diverse student body. He is proud of his Sikh culture and immigrant journey, a committed “Waterloo Warrior” who has been a steadfast supporter of the University and its mission for more than three decades. He has served on Waterloo’s Board of Governors since 2018, including as its vice-chair since 2020.

In his new role as chancellor, the titular head of the University, he will be a key ambassador for the institution, building and nurturing relationships across the broader Waterloo community and advancing its mission provincially, nationally, and internationally in keeping with the Vision for Waterloo at 100. He will preside over convocation ceremonies, conferring degrees, diplomas and certificates on graduating students, and serve as an inspiration to the community writ large.

Bachher was elected by the University’s Senate to a three-year term that begins on July 1, 2024. He will succeed Dominic Barton, chair of Rio Tinto and chair of LeapFrog Investments.