Michael Runtz Retirement Lecture and Celebration

Thursday, November 13, 2025 from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm

• In-person event
• Lobby and HS 1301, Health Sciences Building, Carleton University
• 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6

• Contact
• Rima Mattar, rimamattar@cunet.carleton.ca

Join Carleton Science as we celebrate the remarkable career of Dr. Michael Runtz, Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, and one of Canada’s most respected naturalists, educators, and passionate ambassadors of the natural world.

For more than four decades, Dr. Runtz has inspired tens of thousands of students, colleagues, and community members with his unwavering enthusiasm for the outdoors. An award-winning educator, accomplished wildlife photographer, renowned communicator, and author, he has left an indelible mark on the Carleton Science community and on generations of learners.

His popular Natural History course welcomed over 60,000 students, making it the most popular course of its kind in Canada. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Runtz’s contributions as a speaker, television and radio guest, and author of 14 natural history books have brought Canada’s wildlife into the homes of people across the country.

His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Public Education Award from the Canadian Council of University Biology Chairs, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Carleton University, and an Outstanding Service Award from the Federation of Ontario Naturalists. Dr. Runtz’s commitment to education has made him a true leader in his field.

This special event will include a celebratory lecture and an opportunity for the Carleton community including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to come to come together to honour Michael’s incredible legacy and wish him well in his retirement.

Whether you’re his former students, a fellow nature-lover, or simply someone who has been inspired by his work, we invite you to join us in celebrating a career that has touched so many lives.