“In 1957, a small group of community leaders gathered in Waterloo to act on an idea. They were inspired by Margaret Mead's statement even before she coined it: ‘Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens united around a powerful idea can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.’ The university's founders were people of enterprise and innovation — practical dreamers. Their idea was to found a university of a new kind. My vision for the University of Waterloo is that it be viewed as one of the most innovative institutions for the advancement of learning in the world.”

— David Johnston, President, University of Waterloo

The administration of the University of Waterloo is headed by the President and Vice-Chancellor, currently Professor David Johnston, OC (pictured above).

The University's chief operating officer is the Vice-President (Academic) and Provost, Amit Chakma.

The Executive Council and Deans' Council are made up of the senior administrators, including the deans of the university's six faculties.

The members of the administration are responsible to the university's Board of Governors and Senate.

• University officers and administrators
• UW senior administrators, past and present
• History of the University of Waterloo