Wilfrid Laurier University mourns the passing of Professor Margaret Walton-Roberts

Aug. 14, 2025

Wilfrid Laurier University is saddened by the passing of Professor Margaret Walton-Roberts, a long-standing faculty member in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies and Balsillie School of International Affairs (BSIA). Margaret passed away on August 11, 2025 following a courageous battle with cancer. She was 57 years old.

A dedicated scholar, teacher, mentor and colleague, Margaret was a cherished member of the Laurier community and friend to all who knew her.

Trained in human geography in both the United Kingdom and Canada, Margaret devoted her academic career to the study of international migration, with a focus on gender and immigration, transnational networks and immigrant settlement. Her recent research explored the global migration of health care professionals, as well as international student migration. Margaret’s work was widely published, with more than 50 journal articles and 43 book chapters, supported by numerous external research grants.

Margaret earned a bachelor of arts at Manchester University in the United Kingdom before completing her master’s and PhD at the University of British Columbia.

Since first joining Laurier in 2002, Margaret became a cornerstone of the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies. She also played a pivotal role in the creation and leadership of the International Migration Research Centre (IMRC), housed at the BSIA, helping to build a vibrant and inclusive research community.

Margaret’s passion for research was matched by her love of travel and human connection. She formed lasting friendships and collaborations across Europe, India, Australia, Singapore, South Africa and the U.S. – always seeking to understand the lives and motivations of those she met.

Margaret’s many contributions were recognized through numerous awards, including six WLU Merit Awards, the Faculty Mentoring Award from the Wilfrid Laurier University Alumni Association in 2014, and, most recently, the Order of Wilfrid Laurier University in June 2025.

Margaret is remembered by her children, William, Samuel and Calum, and her partner, Ben, along with extended family, friends and colleagues around the world. In accordance with her wishes, Margaret’s family requests that no flowers be sent. Those wishing to honour her memory are invited to donate to a charity they feel Margaret would have supported.

A celebration of life for Margaret will be held at the Balsillie School of International Affairs on Sept. 13, with details to be shared in the coming days. Flags on Laurier campuses will be lowered to half-mast in Margaret’s honour.

To read Margaret’s obituary and leave condolences, please visit the Henry Walser Funeral Home website.

As Laurier mourns the loss of Margaret, the university extends heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and students. Laurier reminds the university community that support services are available to students and faculty and staff.