Trent University Appoints Interim Vice President

Dr. Mark Skinner has been announced as Trent University’s interim provost and vice-president, effective June 1, as Dr. Michael Khan takes on a new role as president of Saint Mary’s University in July.

Dr. Mark Skinner, new interim VP, Academic. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Since 2018, Skinner has served as dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, overseeing Trent’s most prominent academic division and playing a pivotal role in faculty renewal, program development, and interdisciplinary growth according to Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor.

“Dr. Skinner’s extensive experience and commitment to advancing Trent’s academic excellence make him ideal to lead as Provost and VP Academic,” she said. “As a leader, researcher, and educator, he has long been a champion for student success, faculty scholarship, innovative programming and community engagement. We look forward to his leadership in this interim role as we continue to build on Trent’s strong academic foundation.” 

Since joining Trent as a geography professor in 2006, Dr. Skinner has held various leadership positions, including founding director of the Trent Centre for Aging & Society and Canada Research Chair in Rural Aging. As dean, he has worked with Dr. Khan to strengthen Trent’s academic offerings in the humanities, social sciences and business. His contributions to University initiatives include Trent’s sector-leading Indigenous course requirement and the research and teaching agreement that is pivotal to the University’s future Seniors Village.

“I love the Trent community and believe strongly in the values that nurture and sustain our exceptional student learning experience,” said Dr. Skinner. “I look forward to leading and supporting our inspiring faculty as we continue to create opportunities for students to explore their interests, expand their horizons and succeed in building meaningful and impactful careers.”

Dr. Michael Khan, new president, Saint Mary's University. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Dr. Khan has served as Trent’s provost and vice president of academics since 2020. While at Trent, Dr. Khan spearheaded the development of the University’s Academic Plan, guided by 12 core principles to strengthen academic programming, research and student success.

“Dr. Khan has made a lasting impact on Trent’s academic landscape,” said Bruce. “His leadership has strengthened our program offerings, expanded student opportunities, and contributed to a thriving and inclusive academic community. We are grateful for his many contributions to Trent and wish him success in his next chapter.” 

“My time at Trent has been a tremendous experience,” said Dr. Khan. “I feel privileged to have worked with exceptional colleagues at an institution that is so agile in its academic planning that we could respond to the changing needs and interests of both students and the professional sector and launch innovative programs. Connecting with students to learn about their goals and aspirations is what drives my work, and I hope the work that we have done here will be as meaningful for today’s and tomorrow’s Trent students as it is for me.”

Plans for a formal search for Trent’s next provost and vice-president, Academic, are in development. 

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