MILESTONES

Unfortunately, the Water Institute’s 2020 World Water Day celebration was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 22, 2019, however, the Institute welcomed nearly 300 water researchers, industry professionals, students, and community members to an all-day celebration organized around the theme of Leaving no one behind: Water for all.

The event began with a water smudging ceremony presided over by the Waterloo Indigenous Student Association and Elder Lila Bruyere. Next was a panel of female Indigenous water leaders who explored solutions to the Indigenous water crisis in Canada moderated by Waterloo's Dean of Environment, Jean Andrey. A student poster session and lightning talks showcased a wide array of research activities, while a career fair offered opportunities for students to network.

The afternoon included former Ontario Premier Bob Rae delivering the 2019 Water Institute RBC Distinguished Lecture, What the challenge of clean water at home and around the world tells us about ourselves, our country, and our planet which was followed by a “fireside” chat with CBC Radio host Craig Norris.

The celebration was closed by the Waterloo Indigenous Student Association and Elder Lila Bruyere.