October 17, 2025
Two Waterloo alumni recognized at Fall 2025 Convocation
Waterloo is proud to award honorary doctorates for significant contributions in mathematics and public service
The University of Waterloo recognizes outstanding individuals with honorary doctorates at convocation each year, the highest honour conferred by the University.
These honours celebrate individuals who embody Waterloo’s core values and demonstrate the leadership, innovation and impact that inspire our students to shape a better future for society, health, economies, technology and the environment. This fall, Waterloo is proud to recognize two alumni whose work strengthens communities and addresses global challenges with meaningful solutions.
“Our honorary doctorate recipients represent the very best of what it means to be part of the Waterloo community,” says Dr. Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Waterloo. “Their leadership and commitment to making a positive difference in the world reflect the values we strive to instill in our students. We are proud to recognize their remarkable accomplishments and lasting impact on society.”
Learn more about this year’s honorary doctorate recipients and their remarkable achievements:
Cindy Forbes (BMath ’79)
Doctor of Mathematics, honoris causa
Cindy Forbes holds a Bachelor of Mathematics in Actuarial Science from the University of Waterloo. She is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and the Canadian Institute of Actuaries. She has been a transformational force in modernizing the Canadian insurance industry, namely through various executive roles held with Manulife Financial for more than 35 years, including chief actuary, global chief analytics officer and executive vice-president. From 2017 to 2022 she was chair of the Board of Governors at the University of Waterloo, and a special advisor to the Premier of Ontario from 2021 to 2022.
Albert Wong Kah Seng (BSc ’80)
Doctor of Laws, honoris causa
Albert Wong began life in Canada as a young immigrant in Sudbury, Ontario, where he learned the values of hard work and community service. As a member of the Canadian Armed Forces for 39 years his service included public affairs in Afghanistan, peacekeeping missions in Ethiopia and Eritrea, and domestic operations in the Canadian Arctic. As a UN peacekeeper, he witnessed the profound impact of diplomacy and collaboration in maintaining peace and security worldwide. A citizenship judge since 2014, Wong has welcomed more than 300,000 new Canadians, helping them integrate into our multicultural society.
