Sept. 12, 2025
In Memoriam: Heather Herring, University of Calgary Senate alum
Former University of Calgary Senator Heather Herring passed away July 30, 2025 at the age of 67 after battling cancer.
Heather was a professional engineer and alum of the Haskayne School of Business. In her work she was known for an ability to pinpoint challenges and opportunities and lead towards excellence, always with a view of “making things better.” She was known for her ability to forge connections and was a beloved mentor.
She served with enthusiasm as a UCalgary senator from 2003 to 2009 and more recently was active at the university's Scholars Academy.
She worked in a variety of industries, including serving as the executive-in-residence with Zone Startups Calgary, and in professional and volunteer roles in academia, private and public-sector companies with a focus on energy and sustainability. She was responsible for securing research grants and developing VR and 3D printing research facilities at the University of Calgary CCIT. One of her major projects included her role as the inaugural general manager of the Alberta Ingenuity Center for In Situ Energy (AICISE), an interdisciplinary, interfaculty R&D program focused on sustainable development of Alberta oilsands resources, which also resulted in several spin-off technology companies. Overseeing field pilots for new oilsands technologies, she saw the need for formulating the creation of COSIA and exploring the emergence of the digital oilfield.
Consistently motivating those around her to greatness, Herring was the CEO of Make It So Inc. which provides coaching, funding and mentorship towards startups growing their businesses. She was the first director of NanoTess, the crown jewel of her startup assistance accomplishments. Her lifetime grant-writing successes totalled nearly $100 million. She loved people and had many colleagues and friends.
Heather was known for her kindness, curiosity, and commitment. She valued her family and approached life with passion. Her famous “idea fragments” were a testament to her ever-curious mind.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Heather at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 at Eden Brook Funeral Home. Her university friends are welcome.
Heather Herring will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues and the university community.