News

For Anastasiia Pryveda, a master’s student studying Foreign Policy and National Security at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, the Summer Program for Students from Ukraine at the University of Waterloo became more than just an academic opportunity – it was a core memory filled with personal growth, community, and inspiration that will last a lifetime.

Adam Livshits, a Master’s of Economic Development and Innovation student at the University of Waterloo, has always been passionate about the intersection of education and social impact.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics with a concentration in Managing for Sustainability from McGill University and has worked with several social impact, innovation, and finance organizations in areas like market research, impact investment, and project coordination.

Sunshine, community spirit, and a shared love of sport made for an incredible day at the 16th annual United College Golf Tournament last month

For Mozna Elshafia, a senior student in the International Development (INDEV) program, choosing to enroll in INNOV 201: Social Innovation and Impact was more than an academic decision, it was a chance to merge passion with purpose.

“I saw it as the perfect opportunity to deepen my understanding of how to effectively provide change to marginalized communities internationally,” Mozna shared. “It allowed me to connect my academic interests with my professional experience in NGO project facilitation.”

After more than three decades of dedicated service to the University of Waterloo and United College, Professor Peter Frick was honoured with a tree dedication ceremony recognizing his lasting contributions to the community.

Douglas Hall, the founding Principal of United College, passed away on April 10th of this year.  He was 97 years old. 

“I feel as if I've received a new pair of glasses to view the world around me.” That’s how one student described their experience in the Social Innovation and Impact Minor, United College’s newest minor program, now completing its first full year. Launched to support student changemakers eager to tackle pressing societal challenges, the minor has already seen students dive into projects focused on food security, circular systems for plastic production and consumption, and more.

For Isabella Mills, the University of Waterloo wasn’t just a place to study, it became a second home through her five year stay at United College. As she prepares to graduate this spring with a degree in English, she reflects on the journey that brought her to the College and the experiences that have shaped her along the way.

Last week United College proudly hosted its annual Ring Ceremony for students completing the Bachelors in Environmental Studies with a specialization in International Development. The event welcomed nine graduating students who had earlier crossed the stage at the University of Waterloo’s convocation and then returned to the College to mark this special milestone among friends, family, and faculty.

The spirit of connection and community was alive and well last Friday night at United College during the annual Beer and Bites Reunion event. The evening brought together alumni from all generations—recent graduates, longtime supporters, board members and everyone in between—for a night of delicious food, local brews, and unforgettable memories.