Trent University Released Eight Names For 2024 Alumni Awards
/Trent has announced eight recipients of its 2024 Alumni Association Awards for their achievements during and after their time at the University.
Photo courtesy of Trent University.
Peterborough Blogs
Ontario Government Invests Over $3 Million to Improve Trent University's Infrastructure
/The Ontario Government has invested $3,002,300 into Trent University’s infrastructure to help its students access to modern facilities, learning tools and equipment, announced at the school’s Student Centre on Thursday morning.
(From left to right) Kathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor; Tariq Al-idrissi, Vice-President of Finance & Administration and Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP in front of ongoing consutrction of an accessible pathway along the Otonabee River. The pathway stretches from Bata Library to Champlain College. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Trent is using the money to:
Enhance the learning environment and campus experience for students, faculty and staff with infrastructure upgrades and improvements to critical academic and research facilities.
Increase efficiency and reduce the University’s environmental impact by enhancing building exteriors, mechanical and electrical systems.
Prioritize accessibility, AODA standards, health and safety through essential facilities as well as ramps and stairs, and updated signage.
“This support will ensure students at Trent University have access to modern instructional equipment to meet business and industry standards, increase student access to micro-credentials and enhance the overall student experience,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in postsecondary infrastructure, we are not only supporting our local economy but ensuring students develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.”
“This significant contribution from the government helps Trent University enhance the environments of our renowned campuses, ensuring our award-winning architecture and its infrastructure are keeping pace with the latest upgrades and innovations,” said Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “At Trent, we are dedicated to student success and wellbeing, prioritizing a safe and modern environment for both learning and teaching. This investment not only strengthens the University but also reinforces Trent's role as a vital asset and key contributor to the local communities and Ontario’s economy.”
The most notable part of the investment is an accessible pathway that starts from Bata Library, travels north underneath Faryon Bridge and extends out to Champlain College. The construction has already been ongoing for two years with expected projected completion before Head of the Trent which takes place on Oct. 4 and 5.
While the University is known for its architecture, it had its accessibility issues. Having the balance between modernization and preserving heritage was key in making these upgrades.
“We have that level of modernization that students are looking for, we have safe and accessible campuses but we also need to be preserving the heritage,” said Bruce. “We needed to preserve the riverside and we need to make it really conducive to community and anybody who wants to come along here and enjoy that.”
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Four Exceptional Student-Athletes Graduates Receive Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame Bursary
/Four graduating student-athletes were recipients of the annual Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame Bursary Award at a presentation ceremony at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Wednesday night.
(Left to right) Linda de Jeu, PDSHoF Second Vice Chair; Ireland Payne, TASS graduate; Ava Johnston, Adam Scott Graduate, Brynn Jenkins, Crestwood Graduate; Finn Hughes, Holy Cross Graduate and Tim Barrie, first vice chair. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
Finn Hughes, Brynn Jenkins, Ava Johnston, and Ireland Payne were this year’s winners, taking home $2,000 apiece from the bursary. Each recipient was a graduating high school student that attending University in the fall.
This year’s winners will have their headshots commemorated in the Hall of Fame and their names etched into the history of the awards’ beneficiaries. The award has been given annually to four recipients since 1996 (with 2020 having six).
Hughes graduated from Holy Cross Secondary School, will attend Laurier University, study Business Administration and play rugby for the Golden Hawks.
He is an honours student with a 90 per cent average.
The Hurricane alumnus captained football, basketball, and rugby for Holy Cross. He was named senior athlete of the year and earned several MVP awards. He also served on the school’s student council.
In the community, he was a member of the U18 Team Canada rugby program, U19 Team Ontario rugby, Peterborough Pagans, Petes minor hockey and Otters football.
As a volunteer, Hugues was a link leader at Holy Cross, volunteered with special needs students, was an OFSAA lacrosse volunteer and gave back to minor hockey as a referee and scorer and timer.
“It's an honour,” explained Hughes. “I'd just like to thank the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame for thinking of us and getting us in here. It feels great.”
Jenkins graduated from Crestwood Secondary School this past summer with a 94 per cent average as an honours student. She is attending Queens University, studying Health Sciences and will play varsity rugby.
At Crestwood, she played rugby, basketball, volleyball, track and field and wrestling. She was captain of the rugby team and earned an OFSAA gold medal in wrestling. She competed at OFSAA in track and field for four years. She earned MVP honours in rugby and was given the Dysart award, one of the highest athletic honours at Crestwood.
Outside of school, Jenkins was a member of the Peterborough Pagans Rugby Club, played Kawartha lacrosse, soccer and has attended the Rugby Canada development academy.
Jenkins was an active volunteer. She worked with Kawartha Food Share, was a referee for junior rugby, coached mini rugby and advocated for black athletes on social media.
“It feels wonderful to be recognized for all of the hard work that I've put in and all of us,” said Jenkins.
Johnston is a graduate of Adam Scott Collegiate and is attending the University of Guelph. She will study Health Sciences and play rugby for the Gryphons.
The 96 per cent average honours student played high school rugby, volleyball, wrestling and ultimate frisbee. She was captain of several teams, leading them to OFSAA gold medals in Ultimate and Kawartha and COSSA championships in Rugby and volleyball. She was Adam Scott’s senior female athlete of the year and earned many MVP awards.
Johnston was a member of the Ice Kats for hockey, part of the Peterborough Pagans Rugby Club and has been a member of the Ontario Rugby program.
Off the field, the Adam Scott Lion alumnus was a Sunday school volunteer and assisted with the Million Meals program. She was also an active volunteer and referee at the KPR elementary rugby and ultimate tournaments.
“It's just really awarding putting in a ton of hours into both sports and off the field,” explained Jenkins. “It's satisfying knowing that you're getting recognition for all of it and it's awesome for all of us.”
Payne graduated from Thomas A. Stewart and will attend the University of New Brunswick in the fall to study environmental management and play volleyball.
She played high school basketball, volleyball, badminton, tennis, soccer and track and field. Ireland earned multiple MVP awards in her sports while maintaining a 94 per cent average.
She was a member of Peterborough Thunder Volleyball, Soul Beach Volleyball and Peterborough Badminton Club.
Her volunteer work involves helping at Kawartha Food Share, Peterborough Humane Society and several KPR elementary sporting events.
“I'm very grateful that I got to be recognized and just very happy,” said Payne. “It makes me feel proud of myself and affects my self-esteem. It helps me feel more confident when you're recognized for high school accomplishments.”
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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
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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.
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.
