WatIF 2016 Conference Program
The backbone of the WatIF conference is its focus on the future. Activities are designed by students (with the guidance of our generous supporters) and focus on exploring the future of the world's water. The program will provide opportunities for students to develop their communication skills and gain academic recognition through traditional activities (e.g. plenary and poster sessions). Non-conventional, innovative activities will allow students to develop leadership skills and experience collaborative, interdisciplinary work in action. WatIF will encourage students to use a broad range of learning styles and step outside of their comfort zone. Here is a taste of our program activities.
Present Your Research to an International Audience
Concurrent Student SessionsThe traditional concurrent student sessions will provide valuable public speaking opportunities to students allowing them to develop their communication skills and build self-confidence. All student sessions will be mediated by students to encourage leadership development, and student sessions will be structured to showcase potential for interdisciplinary collaboration.
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Poster SessionDuring the Poster Session, students have an opportunity to present their research to a vast array of experts and peers from a multitude of backgrounds. Experts and students will be circulating the floor and evaluating posters. This is an excellent opportunity to get feedback from professionals as well as your peers. Prizes will be awarded to the top posters presentations.
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Interact with Your Peers through Innovative Activities Facilitated by Waterlution
On the first day of our conference, we join forces with Waterlution to feature interactive and innovative exercises aimed at building communication skills and inspiring delegates. Waterlution is a non-profit organization, which works across Canada and internationally in order to inspire “pattern-making and pattern-breaking change towards a healthy and sustainable relationship with water”. With the incredible help of Waterlution, #WatIF2016 delegates will explore creative exercises aimed at improving team dynamics and interdisciplinary collaboration, while connecting and fostering relationships among peers.
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Explore the Kingston Area on a FREE Field Trip
Thanks to the kind support of Kingston Utilities, we are able to offer an exciting field trip for WatIF delegates! Delegates will first explore the Ravensview Waste Water Treatment Plant. This world-class facility is one of North America’s most environmentally progressive and responsible wastewater treatment plants, and the largest of its kind in Canada. After this, delegates will tour Fort Henry - one of Kingston's most popular tourist destinations. Fort Henry transports visitors to the realm of 19th century military life, and features guided tours, scenic views of Lake Ontario and musical performances. We will then take a quick detour to Bergeron Estate Winery for a late lunch and some local wine. To cap off this exciting day, delegates will enjoy a brewery tour at MacKinnon Brothers Brewing!
There will be more information about the WatIF field trip in the weeks to come, stay tuned! Click below to learn more about each field trip destination: Ravensview Waster Water Treatment Plant Fort Henry Bergeron Estate Winery MacKinnon Brothers Brewing |
Lively Socials
In order to ensure our delegates get the most out of the relationships and connections made at WatIF 2016, our team has planned an exciting line-up of social events! Our events will highlight the beauty of Kingston (the Limestone City), situated on the shores of Lake Ontario in four exciting events. Our planned activities are sure to be a hit and a great opportunity to build life long relationships with other graduate students and water professionals.
Water TriviaDelegates are invited to test their water knowledge with an exciting evening of Water Trivia! Our trivia night will provide delegates with the opportunity to meet and start forming relationships with fellow delegates before the conference begins. Held at the Queen's Grad Club, delegates will be able to relax after a day of travels by enjoying food, drinks, and a little bit of friendly competition.
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Game and Movie NightWatIF delegates will have the opportunity to relax, unwind and get to know fellow delegates over a night of games and friendly competition. Not really up for games? No problem, we will also be showing a choice of documentaries! Presenting the next day or want to explore the city of Kingston more? No problem, this is an open night for delegates to just chill!
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Boat CruiseDelegates are invited to enjoy the beauty of the world renown Thousand Islands region on a boat cruise! WatIF delegates will board the Island Queen on Lake Ontario in Kingston. From here, delegates will travel up the picturesque St. Lawrence River at sunset. On board, delegates will enjoy a gala evening, breathtaking views and a night of dancing! This evening will and memorable event which will celebrate newly formed professional and personal relationships. This is an event that is surely not to be missed! The gala is a more formal event so make sure to pack something special!
For more information on the Thousand Island cruise click here. |