Congratulations to our outstanding undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science on receiving the prestigious Faculty of Science Foundation Awards!
These awards recognize students who have gone above and beyond in making meaningful contributions that enrich the student experience within the Faculty of Science and the broader Waterloo community. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for their peers exemplify the spirit of excellence and community that defines the University of Waterloo.
Kalista Ho – Biomedical Sciences
Atkinson Citizenship Award
Kalista was nominated by a peer in recognition of her exceptional service to the Faculty of Science. Her leadership roles include Peer Mentor Coordinator, Science Ambassador, Orientation Leader, WatSAM member, and SciSoc volunteer. Through her continued involvement, she demonstrates a deep commitment to enhancing the student experience and shaping a vibrant, supportive community.
“At the beginning of university, I thought involvement in student life (especially in leadership positions) was intimidating. Once I got out of my comfort zone, I realized this was something I really enjoy! Being able to mentor and help others through university is so fulfilling, and I'm grateful for the opportunities provided by the Faculty of Science.”
Alex Truong – Honours Science
Atkinson Citizenship Award
Alex was nominated by an instructor for his outstanding contributions as a teaching assistant in BIOL 373 and CHEM 123L. Beyond his excellence in the classroom, he also serves as a Science Ambassador and is actively involved with the Pre-Med Society and the UW Cancer Foundation. Alex continues to support the campus community, pursue impactful research, and achieve academic excellence.
“I’m grateful for this recognition! Waterloo Science is a very special place to me, full of brilliant, kind people who make it feel like home. I’ve never seen what I do as anything prizeworthy because everyone here is always giving back, but it means a lot to be acknowledged by the community I care so much about.”
Jordan Bauman – Psychology
Educational Travel Award
The Faculty of Science Foundation is providing funding for Jordan's trip to University College London - London, United Kingdom.
“Receiving an Education Travel Award means that I can travel overseas for the first time! I look forward to living in London where I’ll visit landmarks, learn the culture, and of course, study! As someone who has lived in Waterloo my whole life, I look forward to better understanding international students by becoming one myself.”
Mahnoor Shah – Doctor of Pharmacy
Educational Travel Award
The Faculty of Science Foundation is providing funding for Mahnoor's trip with IPSF Student Exchange Program to Istanbul, Turkey.
“Over the Summer 2025 term, I will be participating in the Student Exchange Program with IPSF, working at a community pharmacy in Istanbul, Türkiye. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Faculty of Science Foundation for this award. I’m truly thankful for the University of Waterloo’s support for students pursuing international education. It’s an honour to represent Waterloo on a global stage.”
Karen Nayiga – Psychology, Neuroscience minor
Equity, Diversity & Inclusivity Award
Karen has completed multiple Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) trainings at the University of Waterloo and was endorsed by two staff reference letters recognizing her impactful contributions to Black Science and the Connection Collective. She is a strong advocate for inclusive spaces, amplifying student voices, and improving accessibility for equity-denied communities across campus.
“Receiving this award affirms the power of community and collective care in science. Whether it’s creating joy-filled spaces through Black Science, or connecting with prospective and first year students, I’ve seen how small acts of empathy can spark belonging. This recognition fuels my commitment to equity work and reminds students that they belong - in science and beyond!”
Celina Rai – Honours Science
Mental Health Advocacy Award
As a recipient of the Mental Health Advocacy Award, Celina thoughtfully integrates mental health awareness into every aspect of their work. Through involvement in various campus clubs, Celina offers peer support and promote stress management strategies, including exercise, as tools for well-being. Celina’s efforts have played a key role in fostering a more supportive, vibrant, and inclusive environment within the Faculty of Science.
“I’m incredibly grateful to receive the Mental Health Advocacy Award from the Faculty of Science Foundation. Supporting student well-being and helping create a more compassionate academic environment has been a cause close to my heart. This recognition motivates me to continue advocating for stronger mental health supports and building community across our faculty and beyond.”
Senior Undergraduate Science Research Award
The Faculty of Science Foundation bestows this award upon undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science for outstanding research outcomes in senior undergraduate Science research courses. Congratulations to this years' recipients!
Victoria Nguyen – Doctor of Pharmacy
Project title: Anticholinergic Drug Burden and Polypharmacy in Older Adults Diagnosed with Delirium in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Case-Control Study
"I'm incredibly grateful to receive this recognition from the Faculty of Science Foundation. It means a lot to know that the time, effort, and passion I’ve put into my work are seen and appreciated. This award encourages me to keep growing, stay curious, and continue making a difference in the scientific community."
Sarah Long – Optometry
Project title: Enhancing binocular vision in amblyopia
“I am honoured to receive this award from the Faculty of Science Foundation. Participating in vision science research has deepened my appreciation for its crucial role in advancing vision care. This recognition serves as a meaningful reminder of the ongoing impact research continues to have in shaping and improving the field.”
Emily Zelenyt – Earth and Environmental Sciences
Project title: Microbially Accelerated Carbon Sequestration Potential of Mafic Rocks from Atlin, British Columbia: Identifying Limitations and Future Steps
"I am honoured to receive this award for my undergraduate thesis project. I truly enjoyed the research process, and I will continue to apply what I learned in my future work. I want to sincerely thank my supervisor, Jenine McCutcheon, for all her support and guidance throughout this project."
Lindsey Shivers – Chemistry
Project title: Elucidation into the Binding Interactions Between LL-A0341b1 and Cardiolipin Through the Synthesis of Truncated Cardiolipin Analogues
“I feel incredibly honoured to have been considered and recognized for this award. It really enforces that by working hard while having a heavy course load and research project, good things can happen, and it has truly paid off.”
Tara Ferguson – Biology
Project title: Methane consumption in landfill cover soil under imposed cyclic precipitation: A column experiment study
“It is an honour to receive the Senior Undergraduate Science Research Award for my undergraduate thesis project. This recognition signifies the value of the research I and all the extremely talented collaborators on this project have done, and the importance of continuing this research on landfill methane release and mitigation!”
Nikolas Zelem – Physics and Astronomy
Project title: Studying effect of melatonin on surface-active properties and nanoscale domains of lipid monolayers (W2025; PHYS 437B)
“As an undergraduate student at the beginning of my scientific career, awards like this not only encourage me to continue in academia but also provide additional opportunities for me to grow as a scientist. Moreover, this recognition brings to light the value of the research we are doing and helps to spread awareness about its impact.”