The UW Staff Association is the official voice of staff at the University of Waterloo. Our mission is to cultivate a progressive work environment where employees feel safe, empowered to grow, and able to thrive.
News
New dues policy approved
The UWSA Board of Directors has recently approved a dues policy to clearly document the types of payments to which our membership dues apply. The policy creates a transparent framework for dues, formalizes existing practices, and ensures our approach is consistent, equitable, and aligned with common practices across labour organizations.
For most members, there will be little or no change. The policy largely reflects how dues are already deducted today and provides a clear reference for members, the University, and future boards.
President's Report: September 2026
Alyssa's September 2026 report covers UWSA elections, an opportunity to have your say, an update on implementing compensation settlement items, and upcoming events.
Board Report: Spring 2026
The UWSA Board of Directors issues a report to the membership every term. The spring 2026 report highlights the UWSA Board's recent governance work, including preparing for elections, new policies covering UWSA dues and the president, risk management, and developing the UWSA's next strategic plan.
Events
Understanding Policy 18, Part 2: Navigating Job Loss
Your Rights at Work: Understanding Policy 18
This two-part workshop is designed to help staff understand their rights under the primary staff employment policy at Waterloo, Policy 18.
Part 2: Navigating Job Loss, on September 24, is a refresh of our 2024 workshop, covering what happens if you lose your job, what your rights are, and how we can support you.
Meet the Candidates: 2026 UWSA Elections
Meet the candidates in this year's presidential and directorial elections at this online Q&A. Register by September 24 to submit your questions!
Cybersecurity at Home and Beyond
This interactive Cyber Awareness Month session will explore four practical themes that can help participants better protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Participants are encouraged to ask questions about their own experiences as well as concerns involving children, teenagers, spouses, parents, grandparents, friends, or other family members.
October 2026 Area Reps Meeting
The October Area Representatives Council meeting will be in person on Thursday, October 15, and is open to all Area Reps, with RSVPs requested to ensure adequate space.
Lynn Long from the Conflict Management Office will demonstrate Ovation, an AI-powered conversation simulator available to University of Waterloo staff at no cost through funding from the Staff Excellence Fund. Ovation helps individuals prepare for challenging workplace conversations by providing a safe environment to practice scenarios such as giving feedback, addressing conflict, and navigating difficult discussions.
Drayton Entertainment: Murder on the Orient Express
This clever adaptation of the Agatha Christie classic boasts all the glamour, intrigue, and suspense of the celebrated novel, alongside a healthy dose of dark humour to create a deliciously thrilling ride and ingenious murder mystery.
Gripping, tense, and masterfully cryptic, you will be on the edge of your seat guessing until the train reaches the end of its line and Poirot delivers his breathtaking verdict.
Recommended for ages 12 and up.
UWSA exclusive pricing is $50 for each adult ticket and $35 for youth (under 20 years old).
November 2026 Area Reps Meeting
The UWSA Area Representatives Council is a space to exchange information about current issues facing staff at UW and to keep an open line of communication between the UWSA leadership and staff members across the University. Most meetings are open to Area Reps, with one meeting each term open to all staff.
At the November 2026 meeting, Kelly Tunney from the Safety Office will present about Emergency Planning & Fire Safety.
Blog
How managers can support their staff through uncertainty
Since our last Navigating Job Loss session, we've heard from managers who want to know how they can better support staff during periods of uncertainty, even as they face similar concerns themselves. Ahead of our next session on September 24, we're sharing practical guidance to help managers support employees who may be experiencing anxiety related to job security, organizational change, or other workplace uncertainties.
By combining regular communication, emotional support, and practical resources, you can help your team feel valued and supported during challenging times. Read on for actionable steps to help your team!
Staff Spotlight: Jennisha Wilson
The Staff Spotlight series shines a light on the support systems that help staff at the University of Waterloo thrive.
In this Spotlight, we meet Jennisha Wilson, who works at the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism (EDI-R), where she focuses on transforming culture, shifting institutional practices and leading campus‑wide initiatives that embed anti‑racism and anti‑oppression into the core of how we operate.
Staff Spotlight: Patricia Huynh
The Staff Spotlight series shines a light on the support systems that help staff at the University of Waterloo thrive.
In this Spotlight, we meet Patricia Huynh, who works at the Sustainability Office, where she coordinates, leads, and implements projects across campus related to sustainability. We spoke with her about sustainability projects, campus collaboration, and the many ways staff can help build a more sustainable Waterloo.
Opportunities
Joint Health and Safety Committees help promote a safe and healthy workplace by identifying hazards, reviewing health and safety concerns, participating in workplace inspections and investigations, and making recommendations to improve working conditions. Committee members represent employee perspectives, help address safety issues raised by workers, and work collaboratively with the University to support compliance with health and safety requirements.
One opening for any staff member at the Cambridge campus. The JHSC is mandated by provincial legislation and worker representatives are required.