Awards and Financial Aid

Abbott Medical Optics Award for Research in Contact Lens Care

Abbott Medical Optics has established this award to provide financial assistance to an optometry student who wishes to undertake a summer research project in contact lens care.

Abbott Medical Optics General Proficiency Prizes

The gifts of Abbott Medical Optics are awarded to the final-year students in the School of Optometry and Vision Science who rank first and second in general proficiency.

Abbott Medical Optics Prize - Excellence in Anatomy of the Eye and Visual System

This award, valued at $500, is presented to a second-year student in the Optometry program on the basis of performance in first-year anatomy courses.

Alcon Award in Ocular Physiology and Pharmacology

This award, valued at $1,000, is presented to an Optometry student at the beginning of the fourth professional year who has demonstrated excellence in the study of ocular physiology and pharmacology.

Alcon Scholarship for Research in Contact Lens Care

This scholarship, valued at $1,000, is awarded to an Optometry student who is carrying out a research project related to contact lens solutions.

American Optometric Foundation (AOF) Award for Excellence in Contact Lens Patient Care

This award is provided to a fourth-year Optometry student in recognition of excellence in contact lens patient care. The award is valued at up to $1,000 and is presented by the AOF with support by The Vision Care Institute, a division of Johnson & Johnson.

Dr. W. Ross Andrews Prize for Clinical Proficiency

One award, valued at $500, was established by Dr. W. Bruce Andrews in memory of his father who practised optometry in St. Mary's, Ontario and was a part-time clinical supervisor at the School of Optometry and Vision Science from 1967 to 1992. The prize is presented to the student with the highest standing in general clinical proficiency in Optometry 348A/B.

Frederick T. Armstrong Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $3,000, is presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year One, Two, or Three of the Optometry program who has achieved academic excellence (minimum overall average of 80%). This fund is made possible through a bequest from Frances Armstrong to honour the memory of her father Dr. Frederick T. Armstrong and recognize her family’s long history as vision care providers.

Upkar Arora School of Accounting and Finance Leadership Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $2,500, is provided annually to full-time undergraduate students enrolled in Year Three or Four in any program in the School of Accounting and Finance. Eligible candidates will be in excellent academic standing (minimum 80% cumulative average) and have a strong interest in entrepreneurship, volunteerism and civic or community leadership. Interested students should apply by October 1. This fund is made possible by a donation from alumnus Upkar Arora (MAcc ’85).

Dr. Howard A. Backman Scholarship

One award, valued at $250, is awarded to a student in the optometry program who has demonstrated academic excellence in vision science and who has engaged in summer research.

A.H. Basman O.D. Scholarships

A.H. Basman O.D. Scholarships, in the amount of $1,000 for each optometric year, are awarded by the Manitoba Association of Optometrists to Manitoba residents in optometric programs. The selection for scholarships is based on academic performance as well as extracurricular or community participation.

Dr. Charles (Charlie) Bayliff Memorial Award

An award, valued at up to $1,200, is presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in the final year of the Pharmacy program and who has accepted a position as a pharmacy resident following graduation. Selection is also based on academic achievement (minimum 75% average) and involvement in professional activities as a student pharmacist. Interested students should submit an application by March 1. This fund is made possible by friends and colleagues in memory of Dr. Charles (Charlie) Bayliff. 

T.T. Beattie Medal

The bequest of T.T. Beattie is awarded to the final-year student in the School of Optometry and Vision Science ranking highest in Orthoptics or Visual Training. The award is made as funds permit.

J.P. Bickell Foundation Mining Awards

Several awards, valued at a minimum of $2,000 each, are provided to undergraduate students in mining related programs, including environmental geosciences, geological sciences, earth sciences, and mining engineering. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in second year or above, have an overall average of 75% or above, and must demonstrate their interest in the mining industry. Interested students should submit an application by October 15.

Dr. Brian D. Bornhold Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $2,000, is awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Two, Three or Four in Earth and Environmental Sciences in the Faculty of Science on the basis of academic achievement. This award is made possible by Dr. Brian D. Bornhold, PhD, P.Geo.(BC), who was the first graduate of Waterloo’s Earth Sciences program, receiving a BSc in 1967.

Paul Bossons Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $2,000, is awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Three of the Pharmacy program on the basis of academic achievement (minimum 80%) and demonstrated interest in a career in independent community pharmacy practice. Interested students should submit an application by July 15. This fund is made possible by a donation from Drug Trading Company Ltd. in memory of Paul Bossons.

Brantford Lapidary and Mineral Society Inc. Awards

Four awards, valued at up to $1,000 each, are provided annually to undergraduate students enrolled in an Earth Sciences program in the Faculty of Science who have achieved a minimum overall average of 75%; two for second-year students and two for third-year students. Preference will be given to students enrolled in mineralogy courses. Award recipients will be encouraged to attend a meeting of the Brantford Lapidary and Mineral Society Inc., and provide a brief presentation. This fund is made possible through the generosity of The Brantford Lapidary and Mineral Society, a long time partner and friend of the Faculty of Science.

Don E. Brodie Scholarship In Science

This scholarship is awarded to the full-time first-year Science student who earns the highest weighted average in the Fall Term Year One Honours Physics course and laboratory. The award honours the Dean of Science at the time of the creation of the Faculty of Science Foundation.

J. Frank Brookfield Scholarships of Excellence in Biology

Several scholarships, valued at a minimum of $1,000 each, are awarded annually to outstanding undergraduate students enrolled in Year Two of a Biology plan in the Faculty of Science. Selection is based on academic achievement in Year One. This fund is made possible by a donation from retired Biology instructor J. Frank Brookfield to support exceptional students studying Biology.

Canadian Association of Optometrists Award of Merit

This award recognizes a fourth-year Optometry student for professionalism and effective leadership in student organizations.

Canadian Contact Lens Society Prize

The proceeds of a fund invested on behalf of the Canadian Contact Lens Society are awarded to a final-year student in the School of Optometry and Vision Science who shows the greatest proficiency in the theoretical and clinical application of contact lenses.

Canadian Society for Chemistry Prize

The Canadian Society for Chemistry provides an annual award to an outstanding Chemistry student. The award, consisting of an engraved medal and a Certificate of Merit, is given to the student with the highest academic standing in the penultimate year of her/his course.

John Carter Memorial Award

An award, valued at $300, was established by Dr. Carter's friends and colleagues in recognition of his contributions to the Department of Biology from 1965 to 1987. The award, to help perpetuate his spirit and enthusiasm for field studies, will be given once a year to assist an undergraduate student, enrolled in the Faculty of Science, attending a field course. Applications should be made to the field course coordinator in the Department of Biology in January each year.

Centennial Optical Scholarships

The Centennial Optical Company offers two scholarships to students admitted to the first professional year of the School of Optometry and Vision Science. These awards, valued at $250 each, are made on the basis of academic achievement.

Central Optical Award for Excellence in Special Studies

An award, valued at $500, is given to a final-year Optometry student who has achieved excellence in her/his special area of independent study.

Chemistry Scholarships

Upper-year scholarships are offered to students on the basis of performance at the University of Waterloo.

CHEM 13 NEWS Research Awards

The Department of Chemistry offers CHEM 13 NEWS Research Awards to recognize academic excellence of students registered in honours major academic plans offered by the Department of Chemistry. The awards are made for one year at a time and are valued at $1,000 for one year. Award holders are expected to engage in chemical research within the Department by spending some time on a regular basis in a laboratory with a professor or her/his research group. Normally, awards are made to first-year students in recognition of exemplary performance on the CHEM 13 NEWS exam. When sufficient funds are available, upper-year students may also be considered for an award. Awards to upper-year students are based on the previous year's academic performance.

Child Language Research Award

An award, valued at $750, is provided annually to a graduating undergraduate student enrolled in the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Arts or the Faculty of Science. Selection will be based on academic excellence, prior research experience related to child language development, and a demonstrated commitment to future postgraduate study in the area of child language development. No application is required. This fund is made possible by a donation from Knowledge in Development Inc.

Chinese Canadian Pharmacists Association (Ontario) Award

An award, valued at $1,000, is awarded annually to an undergraduate student enrolled in Year Two of Pharmacy in the Faculty of Science. Students must have a minimum overall average of 75% and have demonstrated their involvement in pharmacy and/or community related service. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Chinese Canadian Pharmacists Association (Ontario).

E.J. Chisholm Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $200, is awarded annually to the third-year student who demonstrates highest academic and clinical proficiency in Paediatric Optometry. This fund was established in memory of the late E.J. Chisholm.

Anish Chopra Excellence in Finance Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $2,500, will be presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student entering Year Four in any program in the School of Accounting and Finance. The successful candidate will have demonstrated academic excellence (cumulative average of 80% or greater) and show an interest in finance through work experience and/or related activities, such as finance competitions or the SAF Student-run Investment Fund. Interested students should submit an application by October 1. This fund is made possible by a donation from Anish Chopra, MAcc ’94. 

A.W. Cole Prize

This prize, is a gift of the Cole family and is donated in honour of their father A.W. Cole. It is awarded to the final-year Optometry student ranking highest in Clinical Proficiency.

College of Optometrists of Ontario General Proficiency Medal

The gift of the Council, College of Optometrists of Ontario is awarded to the final-year student in the School of Optometry and Vision Science with the highest academic standing.

CooperVision Contact Lens Award

One award, valued at $500, is presented by CooperVision, Canada, Inc. to a fourth-year Optometry student in recognition of excellence in contact lens care.

J.A. Cowan Book Prize for Optics

This book prize will be presented each year in September to the student entering the third year of Physics who has the highest grade in either the course PHYS 256 or the courses PHYS 226/PHYS 246 (Geometrical Optics/Physical Optics [weighted equally]), provided that this grade is greater than 80%.

I.R. Dagg Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Ian Ralph Dagg (1928-1993) came to the University of Waterloo in 1959 and served the University and the Physics Department for thirty-four years, finally as Chair of the Department from 1988 until his death in 1993. An endowment fund has been established to provide two scholarships, valued at $1,000 each. These scholarships will be awarded to full-time students who have completed the third year of an Honours Physics degree program with cumulative and Year Three averages of at least 85%. The recipients of these scholarships will also have demonstrated leadership qualities through participation in extracurricular activities.

Roland des Groseilliers and Margaret Hansen-des Groseilliers Humanitarian Award

An award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in any year of the Optometry program. Recipients will be selected on the basis of their involvement in humanitarian initiatives and academic excellence (minimum 80%). This fund is made possible through the support of the Ottawa Optometric Clinic and was established upon the retirement of Drs. Roland des Groseilliers and Margaret Hansen-des Groseilliers to honour their outstanding careers and devotion to humanitarian causes. An application is required by October 1.

Earth and Environmental Sciences Scholarships

Upper-year scholarships are offered annually on the basis of academic standing in the previous year. 

William Elsdon Thermodynamics Award

One award, valued at $400, is presented annually to the highest ranking Science student in second-year thermodynamics courses offered by the Chemistry Department.

Eschenbach Low Vision Student Award

This award of equipment is presented by Eschenbach Optik Canada to recognize the skills and achievements of a student who has shown an aptitude and interest in the field of low vision.

Essilor Award for Academic and Clinical Excellence in Optics

The Essilor Optical Company presents this award of equipment to a final-year Optometry student with excellent academic standing in the areas of Geometric and Clinical Optics.

Faculty of Science Foundation G.F. Atkinson Citizenship Award

The Faculty of Science Foundation provides this award for undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science who have made contributions that enhance the quality of life for students in Science within the University of Waterloo or the Waterloo community. Two awards of $250 are granted in each of the Fall and Winter terms. Application forms are available in the Faculty of Science Office, ESC 253.

Faculty of Science Foundation Educational Travel Award

The Faculty of Science Foundation offers awards to undergraduate students in Science who participate in a public service program or an international exchange program. Up to four awards, valued at $500 each, are available every academic year. Application forms are available through the Faculty of Science Foundation website, and are due by November 15 and March 15 each year.

Faculty of Science Upper-Year Scholarships

A limited number of upper-year scholarships in varying amounts are made available each year. Scholarships are based on academic achievement in the previous year. These scholarships are supported through donations from faculty, staff, and retirees to the Senate Scholarship Fund.

William Feinbloom Low Vision Award

The William Feinbloom Low Vision Award was established by Designs for Vision, Inc. in honour of Dr. William Feinbloom. A Low Vision Trial Set is awarded to the final-year Optometry student who has shown excellence in both the didactic and the clinical aspects of Low Vision care.

John G. Flanagan Award for Academic and Clinical Excellence in Glaucoma

An award, valued at $1,000, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Four in the School of Optometry & Vision Science. Selection is made on the basis of academic achievement (minimum 75%) and clinical excellence in the area of glaucoma. This fund is made possible through the support of Drs. John G. Flanagan and Kathy Dumbleton, former faculty members at the School of Optometry & Vision Science.

David M. Forget Memorial Award

Established in memory of David M. Forget, an award valued at up to $1,200, will be made annually to a student enrolled in Year Two of Earth Sciences, Geological Engineering, or other Earth major program. Students who can demonstrate an interest in the geosciences combined with a love and respect for nature, a good ability and interest in writing, and a dedication to their studies are invited to write a short essay (four pages maximum) explaining their eligibility for this award and addressing the criteria as stated above. Application essays should be submitted to the Scholarship and Awards Chair, Department of Earth and Environmental Science, by February 1.

Allan Freeze Prize

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences offers an annual award to the first- or second-year student who obtains the highest mark in Earth 123 Introductory Hydrology. The amount of the award is $250, which will be in the form of a Bookstore voucher.

FYidoctors Academic Leadership Award

An award, valued at $1,500, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Three in the School of Optometry & Vision Science. The successful candidate will have achieved academic excellence in clinical skills related courses and will have shown leadership potential during the first weeks of clinical rotation. Interested students should submit a 500-word essay outlining their intentions/interests for optometric practice, their leadership activities and the values they share with FYidoctors’ business model. Applications will be due by October 1. This award is made possible by FYidoctors to recognize students who excel in clinical education and have shown the potential to be leaders in the profession of optometry.

FYidoctors Clinical Leadership Award

An award, valued at up to $4,000, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Four in the School of Optometry & Vision Science. The successful candidate will have demonstrated excellence and leadership in the provision of patient care in the clinic and during externships. Interested students must submit a 500-1000 word essay outlining their intention for optometric practice, their leadership activities and the values they share with FYidoctors’ business model. Applications are due by March 15. This award is made possible by FYidoctors to recognize students who excel in clinical education and have shown the potential to be leaders in the profession of optometry.

GPLI Clinical Excellence Award

This award of equipment is presented to a fourth-year optometry student in recognition of outstanding knowledge regarding GP contact lenses.

Dr. Michael Gutwein Memorial Award

An award, valued at up to $1,000 and a plaque, has been made possible by contributions from classmates and friends in memory of Dr. Michael Gutwein. This award, will be given to a final-year Optometry student who actively encourages fellow students to participate in athletic and social affairs. The student is selected by the class. Selection is not based on academic criteria.

Helen Sawyer Hogg Scholarship in Astronomy

A scholarship, valued at $500, is awarded annually in honour of Professor Helen Sawyer Hogg, a pre-eminent Canadian astronomer and inaugural chair of the Faculty of Science Foundation. Third- or fourth-year honours students enrolled in the Faculty of Science in a program leading to graduate work in Astronomy who have achieved an overall average of 80% are eligible. Candidates are nominated by the Faculty and interviewed by a selection committee.

Don E. Irish Scholarship in Science

One scholarship, valued at $300, is awarded to each full-time first-year student, in Honours Chemistry and in Honours Biochemistry, who earns the highest weighted average in the Fall Term, Year One, Honours Chemistry course and laboratory. The scholarship honours the Executive Director of the Faculty of Science Foundation during its formative years.

William F. James Sr. Debate Awards

The Faculty of Science Foundation has established the William F. James Sr. Debates competition in order to encourage the art of debate among Science undergraduates. Awards of $100 are made to each member of the winning team and $50 to each member of the runner-up team.

Dr. Douglas H. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $3,000, is awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Two or Three of the Optometry program in the School of Optometry & Vision Science. The recipient will have achieved academic excellence (cumulative average of 80% or greater) and will be from New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador or Prince Edward Island, with a preference going to students from Newfoundland and Labrador. This fund is made possible through a bequest from Ronald and Effie Jenkins to honour the memory of their son, Dr. Douglas Jenkins, a Waterloo School of Optometry & Vision Science graduate from 1982 who passed away suddenly in 2007.

Vinko and Iva Juricic Award for Perseverance

An award, valued at $200 and a plaque, honours a fourth-year Optometry student who has been faced with challenges (medical and/or personal) during their Optometry studies.

Ron Kellerman Memorial Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $500, will be presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student majoring in an Earth Sciences program who achieves the highest mark in Earth 221 (Geochemistry). This award was created in honour of Ron Kellerman who worked in the Earth Science Department as a geochemist for over 15 years.

Bruce Wyler Kelly Memorial Prizes

Two prizes, valued at up to $150 each, are awarded to the two Science students with the highest standing at the end of Year Two. One prize is to be awarded to a student in Regular or Co-op Honours Biochemistry and one prize to a student in Regular or Co-op Honours Biology.

David J. Kerko Low Vision Award

This award of equipment is provided by Winchester Optical to a graduating Optometry student who has demonstrated excellence in low-vision care.

Mike Lazaridis Scholarship in Theoretical Physics

A scholarship has been established to honour Mike Lazaridis, in recognition of his leadership as Chancellor of the University of Waterloo from 2003 to 2009.  It will be awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student in the Department of Physics and Astronomy who demonstrates an interest in conducting theoretical research in Physics and/or Astrophysics.  The recipient will receive fully-paid tuition in 4A and 4B study terms and a paid one-term internship following 3B at Perimeter Institute in Waterloo.  Interested students should submit an application by January 15.

Lyle/Fisher/Bobier Prize

This prize is awarded annually to a student in Optometry who has demonstrated academic excellence and is engaged in Summer research at the School of Optometry and Vision Science and Vision Science. It was established to honour the contributions of Professors Lyle, Fisher, and Bobier to optometric research.

J.R. Matthews Memorial Prize in Biology

The colleagues, friends, and relatives of the late Dr. Jonathan R. Matthews offer an annual $400 prize to the student who graduates from Honours Biology or Biochemistry with the highest overall average in third- and fourth-year courses.

W.A.E. (Peter) McBryde Memorial Scholarship in Chemistry

One scholarship, valued at up to $1,000, will be awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate second- or third-year student who has achieved academic excellence and who is enrolled in a Chemistry program in the Faculty of Science.  This fund has been established by the estate of Peter McBryde and his family, and has been named in his memory.  No application is required.

Duncan F. McIvor Memorial Award

One award, valued at up to $2,000, will be given annually to a third- or fourth-year student who has demonstrated leadership, scholastic aptitude, and an interest in pursuing exploration field geology while enrolled in the undergraduate program within the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. Interested students should submit an application by October 15.  

A.B. McKie Memorial Scholarship

Two scholarships, valued at $1,000 each, are presented annually to full-time undergraduate students enrolled in Year Four in any program in the School of Accounting and Finance. The recipients will have achieved the highest cumulative marks in courses in the undergraduate tax sequences (either AFM 361 and 461; or AFM 362, 263, and 462). This fund is made possible by a donation from the Tax Executives Institute, Toronto Chapter in honour of A.B. (“Mac”) McKie.

Lisa McLean Professional Practice Award

An award, valued at $1,000, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Four in the School of Pharmacy. Selection is based on academic achievement (minimum 75% cumulative average) and demonstrated interest and growth in knowledge and skills acquired in the professional practice lab sequence. Interested students should submit an application that includes a two-page letter explaining how the knowledge, skills and judgment that they have gained in the Professional Practice Lab will impact their future practice. Due date is March 15. This fund is made possible by donations from friends and colleagues in memory of Lisa McLean, the Senior Lab Demonstrator from 2008-2013.

Harry McLeod Co-op Chemistry Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at up to $2,000 or two scholarships valued at up to $1,000 each, are awarded annually to upper year undergraduate students in the Department of Chemistry. The scholarship(s) will be given to full-time student(s) entering Year Three or Year Four of the Honours Chemistry Co-op program in the Faculty of Science in recognition of their academic achievements. These scholarships are made possible through the support of faculty members and friends in the Faculty of Science as well as through the generosity of Kay and the late Harry McLeod. The McLeods had a long standing relationship with the Department of Chemistry, where Dr. Harry McLeod was a former Chair of the department, a respected faculty member, and one of the founders of the Faculty of Science and Chemistry co-operative education programs.

Jerome T. Miller Memorial Prize

A $50 prize was established in 1968 by relatives and friends in memory of the late Jerome Thomas Miller, BSc, MSc U66 (Honours Chemistry and Physics). The prize is awarded each year, on the basis of marks, to the student in third year of a program which combines studies in Chemistry and Physics.

Monahan Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded to a student admitted to the first year of Optometry on the basis of academic achievement. Candidates must be Ontario residents whose birthplace is within 50 kilometres of Listowel, Ontario.

Gretchen E. Mueller Memorial Biochemistry Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student enrolled in Year Three of the Honours Biochemistry programs, Regular or Co-operative in the Faculty of Science. Recipients must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents who do not simultaneously hold any other major internal or external scholarships. This fund was established in memory of Gretchen Mueller through donations by family and friends. No application is required.

New Brunswick Association of Optometrists Scholarship

The New Brunswick Association of Optometrists presents a scholarship in the amount of $500 to a resident of New Brunswick who is entering the first professional year of Optometry.

L.M. Newell Clinical Optometry Prize

The prize, valued at $500, is awarded to an Optometry student on the basis of clinical proficiency demonstrated in Optometry 348A/B.  This award was established by Dr. Janis Newell (University of Waterloo Class of 1982) to honour her father on his retirement from optometric practice after 43 years.

Sir Isaac Newton Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded annually to the top four or five students entering each of second, third, and fourth year of Honours Physics, both regular and co-op. Awards are valued at $1,000, $800, $600, and $400.

Ontario Association of Optometrists Award for Excellence in Patient Management

This award recognizes a fourth-year Optometry student for excellence in patient care.

Ontario Pharmacists Association Outstanding Service Award

An award, valued at $2,500, is provided annually to two full-time undergraduate students enrolled in Year Three in the School of Pharmacy on the basis of academic achievement (minimum 75%) and extracurricular involvement within the School of Pharmacy, professional associations, or community organizations. Interested students should submit an application by April 1. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Ontario Pharmacists Association.

OSI Award for Excellence in Practice Management

Optometric Services Inc., the national optometric services group, presents annually an award valued at $250 to a final-year student in the School of Optometry and Vision Science. The award is given in recognition of demonstrated leadership in the areas of professionalism and communication skills, as well as excellent academic standing.

Optometry Faculty Summer Research Scholarships

The faculty of the School of Optometry and Vision Science provide funds for these scholarships to support Summer research by Optometry students.

Pfizer Interprofessional Health Care Award

An award, valued at $2,500, is presented annually to an undergraduate student enrolled in Year Three or Four of the Pharmacy program who has completed a co-op work term in an interprofessional environment. To be considered, students must submit an application outlining the interprofessional experience and its impact on them, along with a letter of support from the co-op employer by June 1. The recipient will be invited to attend the Pfizer Pan-Canadian Student Awards event. This award has been established by Pfizer Canada to support and encourage interprofessional collaboration among health care professionals.

Pharmacy Undergraduate Student Experience Award

One award, valued at $500, is presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student registered in the final year at the School of Pharmacy. The successful candidate will have gone out of their way to assist the School of Pharmacy in various endeavors that were not for credit. Student ambassadors, student representatives on committees, or students who were always willing to donate their time to enhance the student-experience by contributing to various projects for the School of Pharmacy are eligible. Nominations are submitted by faculty and staff from the School of Pharmacy and the recipient will be selected by the Society of Pharmacy Student Awards Committee.

Pharmasave Business Case Award

An award, valued at $5,000, is provided annually to the team that wins the Business Case Study in the third year course, PHARM360 Fundamental Principles of Management, in the School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science.  The prize money will be divided equally among the winning team members.  This fund is made possible by a generous donation from Pharmasave. 

Prize for Academic Excellence in Ocular Pharmacology

A cash prize of $150 is awarded to an outstanding Optometry student for performance in the Ocular Pharmacology course.

“Proudly She Marched” – Jocelyn Cowan Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $1,000, is provided annually to an outstanding student enrolled in third- or fourth-year of the Health Studies program in the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences or the Biomedical Sciences program in the Faculty of Science who intends to pursue a career in medicine.  Preference will be given to candidates who have a record of health-care related extracurricular or volunteer involvement.  Preference will also be given to female candidates.  Interested students are to submit an application by October 1.  This scholarship is funded by the Canadian Federation of University Women Kitchener-Waterloo Charitable Fund (CFUW K-W Charitable Fund) from the proceeds of the sale of the two-volume “Proudly She Marched:  Training Canada’s World War II Women in Waterloo County” which was written and published by CFUW K-W to raise awareness of the significant contributions of women veterans to the history of Canada, and through a bequest from the late Jocelyn Cowan’s family.  As a young woman, Jocelyn attended medical school in Manitoba before moving to Waterloo.  Over the years she was an active and strong supporter of CFUW K-W as well as one of the founding members of the CFUW K-W Charitable Fund.

Glyn Reesor Prize

In honour of Dr. Reesor, a prize, valued at up to $400, is awarded annually to the Physics student who obtains the highest marks in the third-year electronics courses.

Saskatchewan Optometric Association Scholarships

The Saskatchewan Optometric Association presents two scholarships of $500 to each of two students admitted to the first professional year of the School of Optometry and Vision Science. These awards are made to students who are residents of Saskatchewan. They are awarded on the basis of academic achievement.

School of Accounting and Finance Servant Leadership Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $2,500, is provided annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Four in any program in the School of Accounting and Finance. Eligible candidates will be in excellent academic standing (minimum 80% overall average) and have demonstrated leadership in service to others, the community, or the world at large. Strong preference will be given to students who have also shown an interest in entrepreneurship. Interested students should apply by October 1. This fund is made possible by a donation from alumnus Howie Kroon and his family (MAcc ’88).

School of Optometry and Vision Science Memorial Scholarship

These awards honour deceased students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the University of Waterloo's School of Optometry and Vision Science. Awards are made, as funds permit, to students at the third- or fourth-year level in the Doctor of Optometry program on the basis of strong academic achievement and/or clinical excellence. Donations have been received in memory of:

Dr. Maurice Belanger

Dr. Aurore Lising

Dr. Michael Wong

Science Distinguished Alumni of Honour Award

An award, valued at up to $1,000, will be awarded annually to a full-time undergraduate student enrolled in Year Four in the Faculty of Science on the basis of academic excellence, extra-curricular involvement and demonstrated leadership. Interested students should submit an application by September 20. This fund is made possible by donations from the recipients of the 50 Alumni of Honour Award.

Science Memorial Scholarships

These scholarships honour deceased students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the Faculty of Science. Awards are made, as funds permit, to undergraduate students at any level in the Faculty on the basis of academic achievement. Contributions have been received in memory of:  

Barbara Sivak Memorial Award

An award, valued at up to $1,600, is presented annually to an outstanding undergraduate student enrolled in Year Two of the Optometry program, who has achieved an overall average of 80% or greater and who has exhibited excellence in first-year biomedical courses.  This fund is made possible by donations from family, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Barbara Sivak, to honour and remember her dedication and compassion as an educator and friend.  Having taught 35 years in the Optometry program, Dr. Sivak touched the lives of many in the optometric community.

Society of Chemical Industry Awards

An engraved plaque is awarded by the Society to the student with the highest standing in the final year of Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Chemical Engineering.

H.A. Stein Scholarship

A scholarship, valued at $500, is awarded to a student who has demonstrated academic excellence in Optometry and who has been accepted to spend a summer as an Optometric Research Assistant.

Stern Cohen Accountancy Studies Scholarship

One scholarship, valued at $500, is awarded annually to an outstanding student enrolled in Accounting and Financial Management or Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy or Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy. The scholarship is based on performance in AFM 101 and an overall average of 80% or better.  This fund was established by Stern Cohen, Chartered Accountants, in recognition of their 30th Anniversary.

Jake J. Thiessen Scholarship in Entrepreneurial Business

A scholarship, valued at up to $2,000, is awarded annually to an outstanding undergraduate student enrolled in Year Three of the School of Pharmacy in the Faculty of Science.  The scholarship is awarded to the student with the highest academic achievement in PHARM 350 - Fundamentals of Business Administration and Management.  Established by Dr. Jake J. Thiessen, the founding Hallman Director of the School of Pharmacy, this scholarship celebrates the unique nature and scope of Waterloo’s Pharmacy program, and recognizes the need to encourage leaders and entrepreneurs in the Pharmacy profession.

J.C. Thompson Memorial Prize

The $125 award is made by the College of Optometry of Ontario Alumni Association in memory of the late Dean J.C. Thompson. It is made to the final-year student in the School of Optometry and Vision Science who has ranked highest in clinical Optometry.

Dr. Karen Tompa Nowy Memorial Award

An award, valued at up to $4,000, is presented annually to an outstanding student enrolled in Year Three or Four of the School of Optometry and Vision Science.  The recipient will have shown exceptional care and concern for patients, have advocated for advanced eye care treatments and/or have taken steps to improve the overall health and well being of patient(s) during the clinical education portion of the program.  This fund is made possible through her parents, Frank and Helen Tompa, with additional support from Dr. Karen Tompa Nowy’s classmates, friends and colleagues, to honour her dedication and compassion as a clinician, educator, daughter and friend.

Richard Vollans Science Leadership Award

An award, valued at $1,000, is provided annually to an undergraduate student enrolled in the Faculty of Science who has demonstrated his or her volunteerism and leadership in science recruitment and/or outreach activities. Interested students should submit an application by March 15. This fund is made possible by an initial donation from Dr. Mario Coniglio and several colleagues and friends to honour the numerous contributions that Richard Vollans made to the Faculty of Science as the Recruitment and Marketing Coordinator from 2005 until his sudden passing in 2011.

Waterloo-Wellington Chartered Accountants Association Scholarships

Two scholarships, valued at $2,000 each, are provided annually to outstanding undergraduate students enrolled in Year Two or Year Three of School of Accounting and Finance programs including Accounting and Financial Management, Computing and Financial Management, Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy or Biotechnology/Chartered Professional Accountancy. Selection will be made on the basis of academic achievement as well as demonstrated involvement in the community and submit a 100-word essay on why they would like to become a chartered accountant. The recipient must also originally be from the Region of Waterloo or Wellington County. This fund is made possible by a donation from the Waterloo-Wellington Chartered Accountants Association. An application is due by October 1.

Drs. Wensveen and Smith Award in Binocular Vision and Perception

An award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a full-time undergraduate student entering Year Three in the School of Optometry & Vision Science in the Faculty of Science who has demonstrated a particular interest and aptitude in the area of binocular vision and perception. Candidates must have demonstrated academic achievement in related courses (minimum 70%).  Interested students should apply by submitting a one-page essay at the completion of Year Two by June 30 of each year. This fund is made possible by a donation from Dr. Janice Wensveen (OD ’83, University of Waterloo) and Dr. Earl L. Smith, III (OD ’72, University of Houston). They are both professors from the University of Houston School of Optometry who are grateful for the careers that they have as a result of their optometry education and want to help support the next generation of optometrists.

Reginald Williams Memorial Scholarship

An award, valued at up to $250, donated by Dr. L. Williams of Trinidad, is presented to an outstanding student in the second professional year in the School of Optometry and Vision Science.