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
2026 UWSA Annual Report released
Our 2026 Annual Report covers what the UWSA has accomplished over the past year, as well as an overview of our membership, results from our member survey, and a thank you to all of our many volunteers!
President's Year-End Report: 2025–2026
In her year-end report, Alyssa shares the progress we've made together over the past year, the challenges facing staff, and where the UWSA will focus its efforts next.
Winterfest Call for Vendors!
The 2026 Winterfest Artisan Market is back and we're looking for talented vendors of all kinds to join. This year we are partnering with the W Store to enhance the market selling and buying experience. The market will be held on Thursday November 19 in the former W Store in South Campus Hall (SCH).
This is a great opportunity to connect with the UW community, celebrate creativity, and support UWSA student awards.
Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-selected basis, with priority given to UWSA members, though we encourage students, alumni, retirees, and non-UWSA staff members to apply. In addition to raising funds for our student award, we hope this market brings together the UW community.
Events
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.
Soup-er mixes: Your key to zero waste cooking, eating, and gifting
Hosted by our partners at the Sustainability Office and Food Services.
Soup season is here! Come eat a variety of soups while learning different tips and tricks on how to stretch your grocery budget, eat well, reduce waste, and lower your carbon footprint. End off the workshop by making three different take-home dry soup mixes to enjoy or share.
Ticket Details:
UWSA members: $4
Non-member staff: $8
UWSA x Gifted: Private Shopping Event
Gifted Waterloo is hosting UWSA members and their guests to shop the store on Sunday November 15, 2024, between noon and 3:30 p.m. Each UWSA member may bring up to two guests at a discounted rate; additional guests will require a UW Community ticket.
Shoppers will receive a special discount of 15% off regular priced items, delicious treats, and a comfortable shopping experience. All proceeds from ticket sales will be directed to the UWSA Student Award.
Understanding Policy: Staff Leaves and Vacation
Join the UWSA team for an overview of the policies and processes for staff leaves and vacations for ongoing and contract staff.
Drayton Entertainment: Disney's Frozen
This is the story your entire family knows and loves, but as you have never seen before. Disney's Frozen is an awe-inspiring production that brings the magic, music, and spectacle of the hit movie to the stage, with thrilling surprises along the way. Enjoy a dozen new songs alongside beloved classics "For the First Time in Forever," "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" and of course, the iconic "Let it Go."
UWSA exclusive pricing is $50 for each adult ticket and $35 for youth (under 20 years old).
Blog
Staff Spotlight: Andriana Vanezi
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 Andriana Vanezi, a Systems Integration Specialist with Information Security Services, where she helps staff and departments navigate cybersecurity risks and make informed decisions about technology. We spoke with her about cyber awareness, the simple habits that can help prevent attacks, and the role every member of the campus community plays in keeping Waterloo secure
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.
Opportunities
A representative on the Joint Health and Safety Committee is needed for main campus. Staff representation on these committees is mandatory under the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act.
Term: November 1, 2026 – October 31, 2029 (three years; eligible for reappointment for one subsequent three-year term)
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.