session

Wednesday, April 9, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

​​Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergence​

Most work and education settings have been designed by neurotypical people, for neurotypical people, yet an estimated 15-20% of Canadians identify as neurodivergent. In this workshop we will highlight the lived experience of neurodivergence as we describe 5 important concepts and focus on simple ways in which we can make our work environment more inclusive.  

Wednesday, April 9, 2025 9:00 am - 10:00 am EDT (GMT -04:00)

Microsoft 365 Collaboration Tips for doing more with less

This presentation will provide an overview of the essential tools and strategies for effective teamwork using the Microsoft 365 tools. Focusing on practical tips for using MS Teams, OneDrive, Outlook and other applications to help you efficiently and effectively collaborate with others.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Student Success Barriers Across the Undergraduate Student Experience

This session will explore findings from a recent survey conducted by the Student Success Office (SSO) which identified key barriers to undergraduate student success. Presenters will position these findings in the context of Early Alert, a student success practice which involves proactively identifying and connecting with students facing academic, social, or personal challenges, designed to enhance student engagement, support, and overall student well-being. 

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Resilience for the Future Using the LEGO Serious Play Method​​

The workshop will introduce the concept of resilience by defining personal resilience and encouraging participants to reflect on the University of Waterloo Values and the future of work. Participants will be sub-divided into groups with a set of LEGO bricks that will be used to co-create an elephant that will then be subject to changing conditions.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Navigating Indigenous Membership/Citizenship Guidelines: A Workshop for UW Staff

In an ongoing commitment to reconciliation, the University of Waterloo recognizes the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous identities. This workshop will explore the recently established Indigenous Citizenship/Membership Verification Guidelines, providing staff with a deeper understanding of the purpose and implications. We will explore how staff can collaborate with Office of Indigenous Relations to ensure a smooth and respectful verification process.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

​​Digital Accessibility Makeovers​

Through the use of real examples, we'll show you how to transform content and processes from having accessibility and usability issues into work that includes audiences with disabilities. We'll talk web and social media, and offer some technical know-how to remediate content. 

Wednesday, April 9, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am EDT (GMT -04:00)

Special panel discussion: Envisioning Canada’s Healthiest Campus

Waterloo Global Futures Iconographic

What does it mean to be Canada’s healthiest campus? This dynamic panel conversation will explore the University of Waterloo’s living lab approach to well-being through multiple lenses, including research, student and employee experiences, campus services, and community partnerships.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

What Does It Mean to be Sustainable at Work?

Despite limited capacity and resources, how can staff foster a culture of sustainability in their offices or labs? In this panel session, sustainability champions across campus will discuss the successes and challenges they face in building a more sustainable campus. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and brainstorm solutions collaboratively. 

Keynote speaker: Taylor Linday-Noel

At the age of 14, Taylor Lindsay-Noel was a nationally recognized Canadian gymnast, on track to compete in the 2012 London Olympics. Everything changed in an instant when, following a tragic accident, she found herself paralyzed from the neck down. After more than a decade of growth and healing, Taylor has channelled the passion that drove her as a gymnast into her endeavours as a thriving entrepreneur, podcaster, speaker, and motivational figure.

As a renowned entrepreneur, Taylor highlights the business strategy she used to build her thriving loose-leaf tea company, Cup of Té, and details her extraordinary journey overcoming extreme adversity to create a successful business from the ashes.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Special session - Values in Motion: A Mindful Doodling Workshop with Zack Sandor-Kerr

Headshot of Zack Sandor-Kerr

In this workshop, you’ll discover tools for mindful creativity, experience the refreshing, mood-boosting power of a mid-day art break, and contribute to giant collaborative canvases. These art installations will be displayed across our campuses, showcasing our shared creativity and bringing our values to life in a vibrant, visual way.