Dr. Vivek Goel has dedicated his career to advancing public health, education, research and innovation in Canada and beyond. Before joining the University of Waterloo as president and vice-chancellor in 2021, he served in senior roles at the University of Toronto, including as vice-president and provost and vice-president of research and innovation, and as founding president and CEO of Public Health Ontario. A recognized leader in evidence-based health policy, Vivek has contributed extensively to shaping Canada’s public health systems and academic landscape. He is a member of the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario and a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
At Waterloo, Vivek has led with a bold, forward-looking vision, championing innovation, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and strengthening community. His tenure introduced Waterloo at 100 and the Global Futures, setting a course for long-term impact and interdisciplinary solutions to global challenges. He advanced new institutional values, ambitious sustainability goals, and an innovative campus plan, including the announcement of the new regional hospital on north campus. His leadership also strengthened Waterloo’s commitment to climate action and sustainable operations.
A passionate advocate for equity and reconciliation, Vivek prioritized Indigenization, decolonization, and inclusion, implementing meaningful changes such as Indigenous spaces on campus, tuition waivers for local First Nations students, and progress on anti-racism initiatives.
The story of Vivek’s tenure as Waterloo’s president is one of courage, compassion, and conviction.
His career will continue to inspire the Waterloo community and Canadian society for generations.