Occasional updates, comments, and reflections from President Feridun Hamdullahpur
In June I announced my intention to form a new task force to tackle racism at the University.
I am deeply committed to making sure that we make lasting changes to address racism as an institution. This must include anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, and other issues of racism that we see too frequently on our campuses and in our society.
Dear University of Waterloo Community,
Many of us have watched the news over the past week of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the rise in protests across the world. I know some in our University community may have participated in protests to stand in solidarity against racism, violence and oppression.
I stand with you. I stand with your frustration. I stand with your anger. I stand with your sadness. And, I stand with your call for action.
Canada is a diverse country, but still racism, oppression and intolerance happen here, too often.
I know it has been said repeatedly over the past several weeks but there is no doubt that the University of Waterloo has undergone a great deal of change in a short amount of time. We are collectively navigating uncharted territory for any post-secondary institution. Decisions are being made quickly as situations arise and as we react to an ever-evolving environment dominated by the need for public safety.
For the last few weeks we have mobilized our skills, time and resources to slow the spread of coronavirus. We've done this as each of us has also adjusted to new work and study environments at home or at a distance.
Waterloo remains committed to maintaining and fostering a thriving community
Waterloo’s leaders come from all corners of our University and out in the community. They are championing the impact of our institution and making it stronger along the way. The President’s Community Impact Awards were created last year to celebrate these leaders. Now, we are searching for more.
The second annual President’s Community Impact Awards are now accepting nominations and I need your help.
Our community took a significant step forward this past Monday at the Bridge to 2020: A Look Back, A Look Ahead strategic plan event. After a morning of discussion and sharing at the event, it is clear to me that we have an engaged and passionate community ready to add their experiences and their voice to guide our institution forward.
When Mayor Dave Jaworsky calls the City of Waterloo “Canada’s education city” he is celebrating our community’s extraordinary post-secondary institutions. But here at the University, we know Waterloo didn’t become the most innovative university in Canada on its own.
Our influence nationally and globally is built upon the relationships we foster in our own community. I am pleased to meet this week with Mayor Jaworsky; John Tibbits, president of Conestoga College and Deborah MacLatchy, president of Wilfrid Laurier University to continue building these vital partnerships.
President Hamdullahpur checking in with MATH 137 and Professor Doug Park.
A big welcome to all students! Whether you’re here for the first time, or returning to continue your program, it’s great to see all of you on campus.
Following up on our important step forward for equity.
Welcoming Jay Shah to his role as the new Velocity Director!
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