Five Counties Holding Ready for School Events to Help Kids With Disabilities or Exceptionalities Adjust to Class

With back-to-school just over a month away, Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) wants to support families with children with disabilities or exceptionalities who are starting class for the first time, announced on Thursday morning.

Hayley Hodges helping FCCC host Ready for School events in August to help with the transition for families who have kids with disabilities or exceptionalities starting class for the first time. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The Centre is hosting Ready for School Family Info Fairs at its sites in Peterborough (Aug. 20), Cobourg (Aug. 21) and Lindsay (Aug. 22). The aim is to ease the transition to school for kids starting JK, SK or Grade 1, making it less worrisome for families whose children may face greater challenges due to physical, developmental or communication needs according to event organizer Hayley Hodges, FCCC client and family engagement lead.

“Any time a child starts school is a big deal for families, but it can be even more nerve-wracking for parents and caregivers whose child has a disability or exceptionality,” she said. “We want to help reduce that anxiety for kids and parents by inviting families to attend our Ready for School events.”

Each event runs from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Advance registration is required and child care will be available.

Attendees will be able to:

• Gain knowledge and experience about going to school for the first time.

• Hear from other parents whose kids with disabilities or exceptionalities have successfully made the transition to school.

• Ask questions of Five Counties clinicians and other professionals who support students.

• Learn how to advocate for their child, while learning about school-based resources to support them.

• Access resources, including the 6F’s of Child Development that can help introduce a child with unique needs to their new school setting.

• Get on board a school bus to see what the ride entails.

• Enjoy snack and welcome packages, including tools, toys and tips.

The Ready for School events organized by Five Counties are not meant to duplicate other school-preparation events said Hodges.

“Our focus at Five Counties is to help kids and youth with disabilities and exceptionalities build their abilities for life,” she said. “One of the biggest life-changing events a child goes through is starting school, so it makes sense for Five Counties to be there for families who may need extra help and reassurance at this time.”

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Fleming College Awarded Research Infrastructure Grant of Over $227,000 From Federal Government

Fleming College has been awarded a College Fund research infrastructure grant from the Canada Foundation for Innovation of $227,753, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

This investment combined with other secured grants, will cover the costs for Fleming to purchase a state-of-the-art laser machining technology according to a press release.

At roughly half a million dollars, the technology will be used to design and produce complex printed circuit boards (PCBs). The boards are essential components in nearly all electronic products, including household appliances, automotive systems, healthcare devices and more.

“This CFI College Fund grant is a game-changer for Fleming College,” said Maureen Adamson, Fleming president. “CAMIIT’s new laser machining technology will fill a significant gap in our region’s innovation ecosystem, empowering our researchers and students to engage in cutting-edge research and development projects. It’s a transformative step for our institution and the broader community.”

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Trent University Honours Outgoing Board Chair With Special Bench Dedication

During Trent’s Board of Governors’ final regular meeting, the University honoured outgoing Board Chair Debra Cooper Burger with a special bench dedication on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of TRent University.

The bench is located outside the Athletics Centre, honouring her six years of service to the Board, (and three years as chair).

“We are thrilled to acknowledge Debra’s passion for athletics and her unwavering commitment to our community with a bench in her honour outside the Justin Chiu Stadium, serving as a lasting tribute to the indelible mark she has left on our institution,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, outgoing Trent president and vice-chancellor.

Cooper Burger has been a key contributor to several academic, philanthropic and development projects according to a press release.

Initiatives include revitalizing Trent’s Allan Marshall Pool, creating the Jaylynn Bennett Amphitheatre at Traill College, welcoming the inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Political Trust & Leadership and championing Board of Governors Leadership scholarships.

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Hometown PTBO: Dr. Leo Groarke Finishing His Tenure As Trent University's President and Vice-Chancellor For a Decade

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Dr. Leo Groarke about finishing 10 years as Trent University's president and vice-chancellor, how he got the positions and the next steps of his life.

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Trent Athletics Raise $78,000 For Student-Athlete Scholarships In 18th Annual President’s Excalibur Golf Tournament

Drives, chips and putts were all there at Trent University’s 18th annual President’s Excalibur Golf Tournament as they raised $78,000 for student-athletes at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday.

(from left to right) (back row) Kevin Anness, student-athlete (men's rugby); Bob McCullough, President, Ameresco Canada (Title sponsor of event), Dr. Scott Henderson, Dean & Head of Trent Durham; Neil Caldwell, Vice-President , Canadian Operations, Ameresco Canada Inc. ; Tariq Al-idrissi, Vice President, Finance & Administration, Trent University; Lucy Hunyh, Vice-President, Finance, Ameresco Canada Inc.; Debra Cooper Burger, Board Chair, Trent Board of Governors; Dr. Michael Burger; Isabelle Pellerine, student-athlete (women's volleyball). (front row) Julie Davis, Vice- President, External Relations & Development, Trent University; Dr. Michael Kahn, Provost & Vice-President Academic, Trent University; Nathan McFadden, Director Athletics & Recreation. Photo courtesy of Trent University

“We are so appreciative of the unwavering support of our donors,” said Nathan McFadden, Trent Athletics & Recreation director. “Their generosity ensures the continued success of the Green and White Scholarship Fund, which allows us to recruit and reward our student-athletes for their achievements both academically and athletically. This vital support assists in removing financial barriers for our student-athletes, setting them up for success in their sport and their studies.”

The Green and White Scholarship is offered to student-athletes who have achieved an average of 70 per cent and have been recruited for their athletics skills and abilities. Returning student-athletes must maintain that average to be considered for a multi-year scholarship.

“The green and white scholarship has relieved some of the financial hardships that student-athletes struggle with,” said Natalie Fournier, Trent student-athlete and tournament keynote speaker. “Not only do these scholarships help financially but they symbolize the unique community surrounding Trent Athletics.”

Of the 20 foursomes that participated this year, the winning team was Weirfoulds LLP.

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Over 3,500 Graduates Ready to Hit the Workforce After Fleming College's 2024 Convocation

More than 3,500 students from Fleming’s three campuses celebrated graduation for Fleming College’s 2024 Convocation held in six separate ceremonies at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on June 11 and June 12.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Students came from the School of Health and Community Services, School of Trades and Technology, School of Business and Information Technology, School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, School of General Arts and Sciences and the Haliburton School of Art + Design.

Matthew Wilson was named valedictorian and studied School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences. He quit his day job in shipping to return to school because, he explained, he wanted to help make the world a better place.

“The path ahead will present challenges, it is in these moments that your true strength and commitment will shine,” said Wilson. “Embrace the opportunities to innovate, educate, and inspire. Let the beauty and fragility of our ecosystems fuel your determination to make a difference.”

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Trent University Receives $250,000 For Transfer Student Support

Trent University has received $250,000 in funding from the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT) to implement projects supporting postsecondary learner mobility, announced on Wednesday.

ONCAT is flowing over $2.8 million to support 39 projects at 35 colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes in Ontario. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Trent received the news by Dr. Adrienne Galway, executive director of ONCAT, Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, and Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO of Humber College on Monday.

“Transfer students are an important part of Trent University’s student body. We aim to serve their unique goals and needs and are thrilled to receive funding for three ONCAT projects that will help our transfer students succeed at our Peterborough and Durham campuses,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, Trent president and vice-chancellor.” As a transfer-credit friendly institution, we are pleased to strengthen our accessible pathways and tailored student supports.”

Trent has been ‘singled out for providing comprehensive student transfer services,’ according to a 2020 ONCAT report. The University continues to say that to strengthen transfer systems even further, they will use the new funds to implement the following projects: 

• Development of a new University Transfer Credit Processing Policy: Trent has been awarded $75,000 to develop a transfer credit processing policy. This policy will enhance internal processes and further reduce wait times for incoming transfer students through standard practices for everyone involved in credit assessments.    

• The Bridge: An Expansion for Transfer Students: Building on a successful and pre-established bridging program, the $100,000 awarded for this project will help develop a transfer student-specific stream centered on academic success and social integration during student transition. Trent will take a comprehensive approach to this project through consultation and design with students, faculty, staff, and curriculum designers.  

• Transfer Student Success: Identifying and Piloting Challenges, Solutions and Outcomes: Trent has been awarded $75,000 to develop tools that will assess, monitor, and improve transfer student academic success and satisfaction. The project will research and pilot skill development opportunities to assist student transition, while developing systems for future use to track success over time.  

“Empowering learners with accessible pathways to navigate their educational journey is key to helping them achieve their professional and academic goals,” said Dr. Galway. “The increased funding will promote improved transitions between institutions and programs, helping learners get where they want to go.”

“The Ontario government is proud to support ONCAT’s important work to make it easier for learners of all backgrounds to pursue their educational goals,” said Minister Jill Dunlop. “By facilitating smoother transitions and recognizing the wealth of knowledge gained through previous experience, we are fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment to advance student success in Ontario.” 

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Free Summer Concerts Hitting Outdoor Amphitheatre For Trent University's Music on the Hill Series

Trent University’s Catharine Parr Traill College is hosting its Music on the Hill series of free summer concerts at the Jalynn Bennett Amphitheatre. 

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The concerts begin on June 13 and are held every second Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. They are open and free to the public.

The William and Nona Heaslip Music on the Hill series features six summer concerts featuring an eclectic mix of jazz, classical, and folk-rock music.

“We think it’s a great way for the family to come and hear some great music at a great venue,” said Dr. Michael Eamon, Catharine Parr Traill College principal.

Explore the life of a young J.S Bach through stories and musical interludes in J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow, presented by CBC’s Tom Allen on July 11.  Enjoy a homecoming of sorts of Trent alumni playing folk-rock – think Mumford and Sons – in I, The Mountain on July 25. Or take in a performance of more than 50 local musicians in the Peterborough Concert Band on August 8. 

“We like to think of it as a nexus, a community gathering place,” said Eamon. “Where the local community meets the University to experience music and culture.” 

Many of the concerts feature performers from the Peterborough community, Trent alumni, and even some Trent staff and faculty. The William and Nona Heaslip Foundation, which supports the arts and education, provided funding for the series. 

Rounding out the program are Carpe Noctem, featuring a local jazz group, on June 13; a chamber ensemble from the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra Chamber Ensemble, on June 27; and a two-part concert featuring musicians from the Peterborough Concert Band including Clarintella, a clarinet quintet, and Manorhill, a jazz quartet, on Aug. 22.

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Trent University to Expect Largest Graduating Class In School's History For 2024 Convocation

Degrees are being handed out more than ever as Trent University expects over 3,100 graduates during its 2024 convocation, the largest graduating class in school history across its Peterborough and Durham Greater Toronto Area campuses from June 4 to 14.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

A record 2,664 undergraduates and the largest class of graduate students, including 504 Ph.D., masters and diploma graduates, will be celebrated over 13 ceremonies, according to Trent. Peterborough ceremonies will occur June 4 to 7 and June 10 to 11 on the Symons Campus.

Trent University Durham GTA convocation ceremonies will occur on June 14, at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa. The ceremonies will celebrate the accomplishments of 765 graduates, the largest graduating class in Trent Durham history. 

A record number of convocation ambassador volunteers will support ceremonies including 195 staff, students, faculty, retirees, and alumni from both campuses who will be on-site to direct students and greet and assist guests. 

This year’s ceremonies give honorary degrees to four social changemakers recognized for their extraordinary contributions to society.  

In Peterborough, honorary degrees will/have be bestowed upon:  

• Dr. Audrey Kobayashi (June 5 – 2 p.m. ceremony) Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, globally recognized scholar of feminist geography, and human rights advocate  

• Harvey McCue (Waubegeshig) C.M. (June 6 – 2 p.m. ceremony) member of the Order of Canada, celebrated scholar, co-founder of Trent’s Indigenous Studies department, and expert on Indigenous self-government 

International children’s rights activist and member of the Order of Ontario Cheryl Perera will be presented with an honorary degree at the Trent University Durham GTA convocation ceremony on June 14 at 2 p.m. 
 
Dr. Leo Groarke will deliver the convocation address during the afternoon ceremony on Monday in Peterborough and the morning ceremony on June 14 in Durham.

These will be his last convocation ceremonies as Trent’s eighth president and vice-chancellor when his second term as president concludes at the end of June.

Dr. Stephen Stohn ‘66, chancellor of Trent University, will also address graduates at the convocation. 

During the 2024 Peterborough convocation ceremonies, Trent will honour several of its most accomplished students with special awards:

• The Governor General’s Academic Medal to reward scholastic merit was established in 1873 by the Earl of Dufferin, who served as Governor General of Canada from 1872 to 1878. The Silver Medal, presented to the undergraduate student with the highest academic standing, is awarded to Tovan Lew, B.Sc. Honours Biomedical Science. The Gold Medal for highest academic standing in graduate programs is awarded to Amanda Orr, Ph.D. Environmental & Life Sciences. 

• The President's Medal, established in 2009 to reward academic excellence and achievement at the graduate studies level, will be awarded to three graduate students who achieved academic excellence: Helen Knibb, Ph.D. Canadian Studies; Andrew Hoyt, M.A. History; and Justin Lockhart, M.Sc. Environmental & Life Sciences. 

• The Symons Medal, established in 1972 in honour of Trent’s founding president T.H.B. Symons, will be awarded to four undergraduate students in the honours program who achieve high overall standing on graduation: Khubaib Khan, B.Sc. Honours Biology; Maggie Chalk, B.Sc. Honours Biomedical Science; Shannon Harrison, B.Sc. Honours Mathematics; and Alexis Laplante, B.Sc. Honours Anthropology. 

• The Bagnani Medal, established in 1986 to honour the late founding faculty member Professor Gilbert Bagnani, will be awarded to two students in the general program who achieve high overall standing on graduation: Claire Johnston, B.Sc. Biology; and Carolyn King, B.A. Indigenous Studies. 

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Trent University Reappoints Dr. Michael Khan As Provost and Vice-President Academic

Trent University has reappointed Dr. Michael Khan to a second five-year term as provost and vice-president Academic, effective Aug. 1, 2025, announced on Wednesday.

Khan grew up in Trinidad and Tobago. He holds a Ph.D. in Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia, an M.A. in Kinesiology from the University of Western Ontario, and a B.Sc. in Geophysics from McGill University.  Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Michael has been instrumental in steering Trent University towards new heights of academic excellence and innovation,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “His leadership has been pivotal in developing a robust Academic Plan, launching new interdisciplinary programs, and fostering a collaborative environment that has significantly contributed to our enrolment growth and institutional reputation. We are thrilled to have him continue in this key role as we navigate future opportunities and challenges.” 

Since joining Trent in August 2020, Dr. Khan has overseen the planning, budgeting, development, administration, quality assurance and integrity of the University's academic affairs according to a press release.

During Khan's Trent tenure, he led the development of an integrative Academic Plan, guided by 12 overarching academic guiding principles central to the University's strategic growth and academic priorities.  

The University says it has introduced numerous new undergraduate and graduate programs, postgraduate certificates, and paid co-op opportunities under Khan.

HE has also played a crucial role in strategic growth and expansion at Trent's Durham campus in the Greater Toronto Area, as stated in a press release. He has ensured a steady increase in the number of domestic and international students through developing professional master’s, postgraduate certificates, and innovative undergraduate degree programs at Trent Durham. 

“I am honoured to continue my role as provost and vice-president Academic at Trent University,” said Khan. “Trent’s collegial and proactive approaches to academic programming and student success has enabled us to make remarkable strides in enhancing our academic offerings, supporting our faculty and students, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. I am excited to build on this foundation and continue working with our exceptional team to drive further innovation and excellence at Trent.”

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