The University of Waterloo is embarking on an exciting period as the University community begins its development process for its next Strategic Plan.

To help kick off the process of developing the next strategic plan that will run from 2020-2025, I have developed a discussion document (PDF) that reflects only one vision for what Waterloo could be in 2025.

The path that is described in this document is in no way the only way forward for our institution. Inside, I discuss the challenges we face internally and on a global scale, the principles our institution is built on and the five priorities I believe we should focus on moving forward. These, along with forthcoming issue papers, may inform our consultations and the development of our strategic goals and priorities.

This discussion document is in no way the only path that the University of Waterloo can take over the coming years. It reflects one voice that will be joined by thousands more throughout the development process during our Bridge to 2020 planning period as the entire University community of students, staff, faculty, alumni and community partners are encouraged to share their own vision.

Foundational work is also now underway to complement this discussion document and gather evidence in seven areas that University leadership identified as priority areas for exploration: undergraduate learning; graduate studies; research excellence; student environment; internationalization; empowering people; and, leveraging resources.

I encourage you to take some time to read this document. I also welcome your thoughts on this vision during our Bridge to 2020 process as we move forward into the future together as a community.

Sincerely,

Feridun Hamdullahpur

President and Vice-Chancellor

University of Waterloo