UW names three-time alum to top leadership role

The University of Waterloo (UW) has named its next President and Vice-Chancellor, and it’s a familiar face.

Bill Rosehart, a three-time UW graduate, has been appointed to the dual role.

He brings over two decades of senior leadership experience at major research universities in this country, including as Provost and Vice-President, Academic at the University of Guelph and Dean of the Schulich School of Engineering at the University of Calgary.

As a leader at those institutions, Rosehart led wide-scale academic transformation while strengthening research and teaching capacity.

He was also instrumental in supporting advanced student-centred, experimental learning.

In a press release, Rosehart said:

“Waterloo was founded on a bold idea: that integrating academics with real-world experience could redefine higher education and strengthen society. That spirit of unconventional thinking remains its greatest strength, and I am excited to return to help build on that foundation.”

Rosehart spoke with 570 NewsRadio about the new job. He said he plans to continue with his people-first approach to leadership.

“By starting there and really looking at what can I help facilitate, what can I help by working with others in the university to really try to further enable success, will really be key to unlocking what the university is able to do.”

He said there is one area in particular he is very excited to be involved in.

“The University partnering with the Regional Health to build a new hospital on campus, creates incredible opportunity. One where the University will start by leading with setting a goal of being the healthiest campus in the country.”

The extensive search process was led by the Presidential Nominating Committee and included consultation with current faculty, staff members, students and community partners.

Murry Gamble, Chair of the Board of Governors, said, “Dr. Rosehart impressed the Presidential Nominating Committee with his genuine, people-centred approach to leadership and his clear understanding of what makes a comprehensive university thrive.”

On top of his expertise in leading educational institutions through major transformations, Rosehart is also a champion of Indigenous communities and has worked to embed equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in the academic strategy of the institutions.

Rosehart will take over for Vivek Goel, who will complete his role as President and Vice-Chancellor on June 30, 2026.

July 1 he will assume the role.