Scientific impact recognized with 2025 Science Alumni Achievement Awards

The 2025 Faculty of Science Alumni Achievement Award ceremony returned this year to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of 8 accomplished alumni. The awards serve as a yearly reminder of the influence and impact that scientific discovery and endeavours have on shaping the world. Congratulations to all of our 2025 award recipients: Heather Candon, Dr. Robert Froese, Helen Huang, Dr. Elizabeth Meiering, Yvonne Stevens, Dr. Robert Wolkow Dr. David Wright and Dr. Gerard Wright!

The 2025 Faculty of Science ceremony was held on Thursday, January 29^th in Federation Hall, with supporters from each of our award recipients in attendance to celebrate and recognize the contributions each individual has made, alongside faculty and staff members from Science. The awards created opportunities for award recipients to reconnect with friend groups formed decades prior, return to campus, and revisit memories, while also forming new connections with the University of Waterloo.

From hearing moving stories of alumni transforming cancer treatment options or leading provincial efforts for infection control during the COVID-19 pandemic, to being inspired by the hope for the future that young alumni are embracing and laughing at stories of lab research discoveries of yore, the 2025 award recipients reminded attendees of the potential for science to transform our world.

"The talks by the awardees were superb. Each individual had made outstanding accomplishments and shared fascinating stories about their journey. They all spoke so well! The nominators’ introductions were compelling and heartfelt. It was great to see the different personalities of the awardees in their acceptance speeches,” said Dr. Barb Moffatt, Distinguished Professor Emerita and graduate supervisor of Yvonne Stevens. "I cannot recall a UW event that I have enjoyed more."

This annual award ceremony showcases the talent and achievements that Waterloo Scientists bring into the world upon graduation. Not only are this year’s award recipients leaders of their field, they embody and exhibit the importance that science has on the world. Our award recipients truly exemplify the heart of scientific discovery, and are making an extraordinary impact on the world around us.

“I will never forget meeting a woman who had battled cancer for over 20 years and who finally, after her treatment, had a new lease on life. She held my hands and said, ‘Your hands have held my cells. Thank you,’” recalled Yvonne Stevens, Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient. “In that moment, through my tears, I was reminded that science is not just about data. It is about people and giving them the most important gift of all, time with their loved ones.”

Award recipients, as well as their nominators had the opportunity to share reflections on their journeys since a science degree at Waterloo. From humility and resilience to leadership and curiosity, each recipient embraced the values of the Faculty of Science and grew into powerful examples within the larger scientific community.

“As we celebrate today, I hope each of us find a way on our own to lift someone up, whether it's mentoring a student, supporting life changing research, stepping forward for a cause that inspires you. I encourage you to take that next step,” said Dr. David Wright, Contribution to Humanity Award Recipient. “Together, we can create opportunities, spark hope and make a lasting difference for those who need it most.”