Director's message
Dr. Ben Thompson’s spring message reflects on a season of renewal, recent loss, and the strength of the School’s community. The update looks ahead to upcoming learning opportunities, research impact, and continued progress on the Waterloo Eye Institute.
Features
Karen Kawawada: In memoriam
The School of Optometry & Vision Science is deeply saddened by the passing of Karen Kawanda, our dedicated communications manager and the editor of this newsletter for the past two years. Remembered for her kindness, leadership and passion, Karen made lasting contributions to major initiatives including the Waterloo Eye Institute campaign. She will be profoundly missed by colleagues and the broader community.
Research profile: Waterloo research reshapes Paralympic vision impairment sport
Groundbreaking research from the University of Waterloo is reshaping Paralympic skiing by making competition fairer and more inclusive for athletes with vision impairment. Led by Dr. Kristine Dalton, the new evidence-based classification system better reflects real-world performance and expands access to the sport. Set to be showcased at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, this work marks a powerful step forward for inclusive athletics.
Feature: Outreach to refugee and newcomer community of Waterloo Region
The Waterloo Eye Institute clinic in downtown Kitchener helps ensure that poor vision is one less barrier for those seeking refuge in the community. The School of Optometry & Vision Science has provided eye care to the refugee population for many years, and Dr. Lisa Woo, who became head of the Health Sciences Optometry Clinic eight years ago, continues this commitment, providing care to more than 300 newcomer and refugee patients each year.
News and events
Come back to campus on June 6 for a single‑day continuing education (CE) experience that brings together learning, connection and celebration. Enjoy five hours of engaging CE, meet clinicians at resource tables, and stay for the Alumni Achievement Awards as we honour outstanding members of our alumni community.
Construction of the Waterloo Eye Institute is progressing well. The vision to establish Canada’s leading eye and vision care centre of excellence is becoming a reality with each passing day. The foundation and structural framing for the new addition are complete. Windows and sheathing are being installed, and work continues to fully enclose the building. The interior renovations and construction of the clinical and research areas are advancing. A model exam room has been built which will be used as a guide to construct all remaining exam rooms. The construction is anticipated to be completed at the end of this year, with the official building opening to occur in summer 2027.
Strengthen your clinical confidence with two fully online, COPE‑accredited (pending) certificate courses designed for today’s evolving scope of optometric practice. Choose to focus on glaucoma management, or oral TPAs and lab testing, or take both for a broader learning experience, all delivered through flexible online modules and live‑virtual sessions with experienced instructors. The courses run from May 4 to mid‑June with optional certificate exams, and spots are filling quickly.
Plan a class reunion
How long has it been since you graduated from the School of Optometry & Vision Science? If your class is recognizing a milestone year like 10, 20, 25 or 30+ years since graduation it’s time to celebrate!
Class notes
Learn what your classmates have been up to and get inspired by the activities of alumni from other cohorts!
More news
- Optimizing optometric scope: University of Waterloo School of Optometry & Vision Science statement on how its curriculum aligns with proposed scope modernization
Student profile:
- Advocates for Indigenous Eyecare by Students (AIES): Jeremiah Hyslop, Adrianna Warren and Elise Hansen
Patient education:
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What you should know about: Heart health and the eyes, featuring. Dr. Jennifer Li
Stay connected
We want to hear from you! Stay up to date on events, continuing education, the Waterloo Eye Institute and more!