Introducing the 2025–2026 Geoffrey F. Bruce Fellows in Canadian Freshwater Policy
The Geoffrey F. Bruce Fellowships in Environment and Canadian Freshwater Policy were established in honour of Erika v. C. Bruce’s late husband, recognizing his dedication to environmental conservation and water resource management in Canada and globally. Since its establishment in 2017, 18 master’s and PhD students and one postdoctoral fellow have received funding to support their research projects on various topics related to freshwater policy in Canada. This year, Dima Balaa and Michelle Jadormeo are the 2025–2026 Bruce Fellowship recipients.
Dima Balaa, a PhD student in Environmental Applied Science and Management, studies the intersection of water quality, treatment systems, public health, and water policy. Her master’s research explored public perceptions and policy challenges surrounding microplastics and nanoplastics in drinking water, and was published in the journal Environmental Research: Health. As a lead researcher on Credit Valley Conservation’s Smart Blue Roof project in Mississauga, Ont., Balaa investigates the quality of standing water on blue roof systems and evaluates their environmental benefits, feasibility, and public health impacts, while examining how policy and regulatory frameworks influence stormwater management, energy efficiency, and safe water reuse.
During her Bruce Fellowship, Balaa will collaborate with policymakers, water managers, and industry partners to translate her research into actionable, evidence-based policy recommendations, including guidelines for controlled water retention and rooftop water reuse. She is also participating in the Bruce Fellowship–Canada Water Agency mentorship program to deepen the policy impact of her work. Driven by a commitment to strengthen water governance, advance climate-resilient infrastructure, and protect public health, Balaa’s research aims to shape innovative, sustainable policies that make urban water management safer, more efficient, and more resilient for communities.
Michelle Jadormeo, a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) student, is investigating the growing water demands of artificial intelligence and data centre infrastructure–an urgent challenge in regions already facing pressure on water resources. Her research examines not only the technical and engineering aspects but also the political, regulatory, and socio-economic implications of these large-scale water users.
During her Bruce Fellowship, Jadormeo will conduct comparative policy analysis to identify gaps and blind spots in Canada’s oversight and develop forward-looking, evidence-based solutions for sustainable freshwater governance. She will also participate in the Bruce Fellowship–Canada Water Agency mentorship program, gaining guidance on translating her research into actionable policies that are equitable, sustainable, and respectful of Indigenous water rights. Beyond her studies, she contributes to her university and community as a research and academic assistant, program council representative, and volunteer, all driven by a commitment to reimagine Canada’s water governance and prepare for a future as a water policy leader.