The Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science is proud to announce that Cindy Forbes was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Mathematics, one of the university’s highest honours, in recognition of her exceptional leadership, professional achievement, and profound service to both the university and broader society.
Forbes, who holds a Bachelor of Mathematics in Actuarial Science from the University of Waterloo, has been a transformational force in modernizing the Canadian insurance industry. Over a distinguished 35-year career with Manulife Financial, she held several senior executive roles including Chief Actuary, Global Chief Analytics Officer, and Executive Vice President. Her vision and leadership have had a lasting impact on the field of actuarial science and data-driven decision-making in financial services.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Forbes has demonstrated a deep commitment to public service and higher education. From 2017 to 2022, she served as Chair of the University of Waterloo’s Board of Governors, guiding the institution through a period of strategic growth and innovation. She also served as a Special Advisor to the Premier of Ontario from February 2021 to January 2022, contributing her expertise in analytics and governance to provincial initiatives.
Through the awarding of honorary degrees, the University of Waterloo recognizes individuals whose achievements embody the University’s core values and provide inspiration to students, graduates, and the broader community. Forbes’s career exemplifies the excellence, innovation, and leadership that define Waterloo’s spirit.
The honorary degree was awarded during the Faculty of Mathematics convocation ceremony on Friday, October 24, 2025, where the University community celebrated Forbes’s outstanding contributions to both her profession and society.