Mission
To advance learning and knowledge through teaching, research and scholarship, nationally and internationally, in an environment of free expression and inquiry.
This spirit of inquiry, integrity, and collaboration is depicted on the University seal, which contains our motto concordia cum veritate, meaning “in harmony with truth.”
Vision
We envision a community of curious, collaborative, creative, innovative and entrepreneurial learners, problem-solvers and leaders who seek to understand, identify and mobilize 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.
Values
At the University of Waterloo, we…
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.
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.
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”.
Values Imperatives
Our values represent a commitment to build on existing cultural strengths while identifying areas to evolve. Underpinning these values are the following imperatives:
Uphold Waterloo’s leadership and excellence in education, scholarship, innovation, and entrepreneurship
Ensure the physical and mental health and well-being of our students and employees
Embrace decolonization, Indigenization, inclusivity, equity, anti-oppression, and anti-racism
Co-ordinate and collaborate across disciplinary and organizational boundaries
“We need to find ways to co-ordinate, collaborate and co-create to build an empowered organizational culture with an emphasis on accountability, nimbleness and impact. This cultural shift will also mean instilling collaboration as a mindset and skill in our students and valuing collaborative connections with community and global partners.”
