We envision: a community of curious, collaborative, innovative and entrepreneurial problem-solvers and leaders who seek to understand and identify equitable and sustainable solutions for the future of humanity and our planet. For more on University of Waterloo’s vision, refer to Waterloo at 100.
Our mission: to advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research, and scholarship, nationally and internationally, in an environment of free expression and enquiry.
The imperatives: the following ground the values. We must:
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Uphold Waterloo’s leadership and excellence in education, scholarship, innovation, and entrepreneurship
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Ensure the physical and mental health and well-being of our students and employees
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Embrace decolonization, Indigenization, inclusivity, equity, anti-oppression, and anti-racism
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Co-ordinate and collaborate across disciplinary and organizational boundaries
Our values: at Waterloo, we think differently, we act with purpose, and we work together.
Think differently
unconventional | bold | innovative
Great ideas are born when we challenge the status quo and ask bold questions and embrace risks.
It takes curiosity to be innovative. It takes courage to stand out.
We seek out perspectives and experiences that are different from our own. Openness, diversity of thoughts, and reciprocity are essential.
At Waterloo we defy convention, we explore the uncharted and we celebrate uniqueness. This unconventional spirit is at our core and will help us continue to disrupt and shape the future.
Act with purpose
positive impact | responsible | get things done
We make a positive impact in the Waterloo community and around the world.
Our impact is vast, and so is our responsibility – to each other, to the community and the environment.
We don’t simply solve problems – we seek to deeply understand, and we ask, “what problems should we address?” We identify new opportunities by asking “why?” and “why not?”
We value action because we learn through the process of doing. We value hands-on experiences through learning, teaching, research, and work.
Work together
collaborative | community | "one Waterloo"
We are at our best when we work together – which results in fresh thinking, inspiration, and innovative breakthroughs.
Collaboration as a mindset extends beyond students, faculty, and staff – it includes alumni, community members, industry partners, and more.
We encourage our community to stand up for one another to advocate for positive change through decolonization, Indigenization, inclusivity, equity, anti-oppression, and anti-racism.
We aspire to be “One Waterloo”.
