New Micro-Credential at Trent University Teaches Realities of Public Leadership

Trent University is launching a new micro-credential through the Leadership and Democracy Lab, designed to help future leaders in government, non-profit and public service organizations strengthen their capacity and accountability.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

The Foundations of Public Leadership micro-credential was developed through Trent’s Leadership and Democracy Lab in the Create Centre for Entrepreneurship, and informed by Professor de Clercy’s research expertise on democratic governance, political trust, leadership in the public sector and policy engagement.

The suite of modules offers flexible, skills-based training tailored specifically to leaders in government, non-profit and public sector environments, areas where dedicated leadership education remains limited in Canada.

“People are often promoted into leadership roles in government or the public sector without receiving formal leadership training,” says Dr. Cristine de Clercy, Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership and professor of Political Studies at Trent University. “This micro-credential gives learners access to practical, targeted skills they can apply immediately, helping them become more effective, ethical, and confident public service leaders.”

Designed for individuals working in or preparing for leadership roles in government, non-profit and public service organizations, the micro-credential includes a suite of short, skills-based courses that may be taken individually or stacked toward a broader Public Sector Leadership credential. Courses such as Plain Language for the Public Sector and Facilitating Public Dialogue in Policymaking focus on core public leadership competencies, including ethical decision-making, inclusive governance, intercultural communication and clear communication in public-facing roles.

“When civil servant leaders are deeply informed about some of the key communication and ethical responsibilities they carry as public servants, they become leaders who are more responsive to citizen and stakeholder needs, more transparent and accountable, and better equipped to navigate complexity and do their jobs well,” continued Dr. Cristine de Clercy.

The Foundations of Public Leadership micro-credential is supported in part by funding from the RBC Foundation through the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership.

For more information on this new micro-credential, visit the website.

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Integrity Commissioner Concludes Mayor Jeff Leal Did Not Breach Council Code of Conduct After Use of Racial Slur During Trent University Lecture

Peterborough Integrity Commissioner Guy Giorno has concluded that Mayor Jeff Leal did not contravene the Council Code of Conduct when using a racial slur during a guest lecture at Trent University in March of last year.

file photo.

During a guest lecture for a Trent business class on March 19, 2025, Leal used an anti-Black slur when quoting former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson.

“Mayor Leal’s word was painful and harmful. By using such a charged acial slur, he normalized it, implicitly permitting others to spread similar contempt, disdain and hatred - especially toward Black communities,” said The Afrocentric Awareness Network of Peterborough in a statement. “It is deeply troubling to see the leader of our City express such regressive, outdated values in today’s society.”

As complainants petitioned for the mayor to resign, two stated “that Lyndon Johnson never made such a statement, and a third Complainant notes that the statement has not been sourced. Two Complainants note the Mayor was not quoting President Johnson directly, meaning the choice to say the N-word was that of the Mayor,” as noted under Complainant’s Positions in the Trent Central Student Association et al. v. Leal, 2025 ONMIC 11 Inquiry Report.

Following the incident, Leal apologized in a statement.

“…the quote that I used included a racial slur that is deeply offensive and hurtful,” said Leal. “I sincerely apologize. Regardless of the context or intent, using that word was wrong. I recognize the pain it carries and the responsibility I have to speak with care and respect. I apologize to Trent students and faculty, to Trent University and to my community.”

As a result of the incident’s investigation, Peterborough Integrity Commissioner Guy Giorno has found that the Mayor did not breach Council Code of Conduct.

“…my conclusion under the Code is not based on whether President Johnson actually said what was attributed,” stated Giorno in the Trent Central Student Association et al. v. Leal, 2025 ONMIC 11 Inquiry Report.

“I cannot conclude that the March 19 comment constituted harassment or breached paragraph 10 c) of the Code,” Giorno continued. “To be clear, what occurred on March 19 was not acceptable. Everyone agrees it was unacceptable. The Respondent agrees it was unacceptable. He has acknowledged that, both earlier this year and in this inquiry.”

In a recommendation through the Inquiry Report, Giorno says City Council may wish to ask the staff to report back on the recommendation of the Trent Central Student Association that the Strategic Plan be amended to include anti-racism and race relations as a strategic priority under the Community and Wellbeing pillar.

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Three Trent Scholars In the Humanities and Social Sciences Renewed as Canada Research Chairs

Three Canada Research Chair (CRC) appointments have been renewed for Trent University researchers Whitney Lackenbauer, Anne Pasek and Naomi Nichols.

(From left to right) Whitney Lackenbauer, Anne Pasek and Naomi Nichols. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), the CRC program supports researchers whose work drives discovery, engagement and innovation, ensuring continued national recognition and support for their work in the humanities and social sciences, Trent University says.

Dr. Whitney Lackenbauer, Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North, has been renewed for a seven-year term with $1.4 million in funding. A leading authority on Arctic sovereignty and northern security, Lackenbauer’s research explores Canada’s evolving role in the circumpolar world and the intersection of Indigenous, national and international interests in northern policy and governance. Lackenbauer contributes directly to public policy as the network lead of the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) based at Trent.

Dr. Anne Pasek was renewed as a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Media, Culture and the Environment, securing $500,000 over five years to advance work at Trent on climate change, media technologies and sustainability. Pasek’s research examines how digital companies are increasingly shaping energy policies and markets, for both good and ill. 

Dr. Naomi Nichols has been renewed for her second term as a Tier 2 CRC in Community-Partnered Social Justice. Through the program, Trent University will receive $500,000 over five years to support Nichols' research with community organizations on social inequities and the development of practical tools and policies to promote justice and systemic change. In her first term as a CRC, Nichols established the Research for Social Change Lab and, as principal investigator, secured more than $1 million in additional research funding. Along with CRC funding, the grants have supported training opportunities for student and community researchers, the publication of several peer-reviewed articles, the creation of open-access resources, and the organization of several knowledge exchange events. 

“These renewals speak to the extraordinary calibre and continued impact of Trent’s research community,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, Trent University vice-president of Research and Innovation. “Our Canada Research Chairs are advancing knowledge and action on issues that matter people across Canada and around the world.” 

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Trent University Co-Launches First Canadian Association for the Philosophy of AI

Trent University is leading a country-wide network of experts in examining and informing ethical, social and human implications of AI, co-launching the first Canadian Association for the Philosophy of AI.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Two Canadian scholars have launched the first and only Canadian Association for the Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence (CAPAI) to address Canada’s AI landscape.

“While Canada has strong communities of researchers working on AI from technical and policy perspectives, there was no dedicated space for philosophers of AI to connect. Networking and collaboration that once happened in isolation can now take place in a more organized, systematic, and efficient way,” says Dr. Martina Orlandi, co-founder of CAPAI and assistant professor in AI degree programs at Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area.

Co-founded alongside Dr. Nicholas Dunn, assistant professor of Philosophy at the University of Lethbridge, CAPAI is said to bring together scholars and their work examining both foundational questions, such as the nature of intelligence, cognition and decision-making, and urgent ethical and social concerns, including AI’s impact on labour, healthcare, bias, surveillance and democracy.

“AI is accelerating faster than institutions and policies can keep up, and philosophers have an important role to play in helping articulate the values and principles that should guide how these technologies are designed and deployed. Without that clarity, we risk allowing innovation to outpace reflection,” said Dr. Dunn. 

Both scholars emphasize that the increase in AI adoption and the ways platforms are being used are raising deeper questions about human identity and well-being. Researchers are increasingly focused more on how AI is implemented in the social sphere.

CAPAI has 14 members and has introduced a national website and online speaker series, with plans for in-person meetings and public engagement.

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Trent University Appoints New Vice-President of Research and Innovation

Trent University has appointed Dr. Tana J. Allen, an internationally recognized classical archaeologist, social historian and accomplished senior academic administrator as the University’s next vice-president of Research and Innovation, effective Sept. 1.

Dr. Allen holds a Bachelor of Arts from Amherst College, a Master of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Dr. Allen joins Trent from Memorial University, where she served as acting vice-president of Research and, previously, as acting associate vice-president of Research. Throughout her tenure, she worked with senior leaders to advance Memorial’s strategic research objectives and strengthen its international profile.

“Dr. Allen will be an outstanding addition to Trent University,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Her track record as a senior research leader with demonstrated skills in facilitating collaboration across disciplines, and her appreciation for Trent’s range of engagement and productivity will elevate our reputation as a research-intensive university that tackles complex issues from multiple vantage points. She is the right leader to champion Trent’s research and researchers, advancing Trent’s focus on healthy and sustainable environments and communities.” 

Dr. Allen’s research explores ancient architecture, medical practices and the influence of Greek and Roman ideas on the modern world. She is widely known for her work on the interplay between health, society and place in the ancient world. Her academic scholarship includes numerous publications, international conference presentations, major editorial roles and extensive archaeological field experience across the Mediterranean.

In addition to her academic contributions, Dr. Allen has provided national leadership through roles such as chair of ACENET’s Board of Directors, executive roles with the Ocean Frontier Institute and the Health Research Ethics Authority, as well as being Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) leader for Memorial and other organizations spanning research and innovation across the arts and sciences.

“I am honoured to join Trent at this exciting moment as the University focuses on further advancing its research profile,” said Dr. Allen. “Trent has an extraordinary reputation for excellence across disciplines, and a strong focus on interdisciplinary research that resonates deeply with my own values. I look forward to meeting and working with the entire community. Students, faculty, staff and partners at Trent are engaged in excellent research and I can’t wait to share even more of that with Canada and the world.”

She takes over the role from Dr. Holger Hintelmann, who has held the position in an interim capacity since 2024.

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Trent University Celebrates 2025 Board of Governors Leadership Scholarship Recipient

Trent University recognized student Lily Walker, recipient of the 2025 Leadership Scholarship at Friday’s Board of Governors meeting.

Cathy Bruce, Trent President (left) and Doug Kirk, Board Chair (middle) congratulate Lily Walker (right), recipient of Board of Governors Leadership Scholarship. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The London native was accepted to Trent with the University’s top entrance scholarship: full first-year tuition for students entering with an average above 95 per cent. Walker’s leadership and community involvement earned them the Board of Governors Leadership Scholarship, valued at $7,500 each year of their four-year degree.

Before enrolling at Trent, Walker organized clothing and food drives, offered literacy support for children and encouraged youth participation in blood donation campaigns.

They shared that receiving the Board of Governors Leadership Scholarship was the ultimate factor that fundamentally changed their future, making it possible to attend Trent to pursue a degree in Conservation Biology.

“This scholarship meant going to my dream university when my parents, grandparents and everyone before them were unable to attend university at all,” said Walker. “It has left a mark on my family that truly cannot be replicated.”

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Future Political Leaders at Trent University Gain More Hands-On Opportunities Thanks to $500K Donation from RBC

Trent University students looking to become the leaders of tomorrow in government, politics and public service will now get more experiential learning opportunities and greater support thanks to a $500,000 gift from RBC Royal Bank.

file photo.

The new funding will support the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership program at Trent University.

The gift, over five years, will further engage marginalized and equity-seeking students, prepare professional certificate programs, and support seminars, conferences, national networking opportunities, co-op education and work placements through the program that aims to build greater trust in public institutions.

“Experiential elements are integral to the success of the groundbreaking Jarislowsky program, and this funding will provide Trent students with an even richer experience when studying politics, fiduciary policy and responsible governance,” says Kevin Whitmore, director, Co-op, Careers, & Experiential Learning at Trent University.

The program is supported by a $2 million investment from the Jarislowsky Foundation, which was founded in 1993 by prominent Canadian philanthropist and business leader Stephen Jarislowsky.

“RBC is proud to support Trent’s Jarislowky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership program – to help young people develop the skills they will need for a career dedicated to public service,” says Marjolaine Hudon, RBC Regional President.

Dr. Cristine de Clercy, Trent's inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, is at the forefront of this first-of-its-kind network of endowed chairs. De Clercy has joined the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences to lead the development of the innovative program of scholarship (teaching, research, and experiential learning) that will expand knowledge and training in the ethical politics, fiduciary responsibility, and democratic governance. Through the Jarislowsky chair position, she is enriching Trent's strengths in student-centered, research-informed, and interdisciplinary approaches.

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Trent University Signs New Agreement with Centennial College to Bridge Business Programs

Trent University has created a new learning pathway for students studying at Centennial College, enhancing the already extensive college-to-university offerings between the two institutions and offering students the opportunity to complete two programs in four years.

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“The new agreement between Trent and Centennial College increases the number of pathways to 23 in total, exemplifying the strong partnership between our two institutions, offering students diverse and seamless postsecondary learning pathways,” said Marilyn Burns, vice president of Communications & Enrolment. “This newest learning pathway in particular—related to business education—enhances the collaborative role of universities and colleges in delivering highly qualified persons to work in the diversity of careers available in corporate, not-for-profit, and public sectors.”

Students completing their studies in Centennial College’s two-year Business Diploma can now earn their Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A) degree – one of Trent’s most in-demand programs within the prestigious School of Business —in just two additional years of study. The new 2+2 agreement between Trent and Centennial offers students the opportunity to earn both diploma and degree in just four years total. Students transferring to Trent with a minimum 75 per cent cumulative admission average will receive 10.0 transfer credits to be applied to the 20.0-credit B.B.A. program, halving the time to complete their university studies and venture into the business world with advanced knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills.

“Creating new pathways for our students is integral to their future career success. I am delighted to support this innovative partnership with Trent University that fully recognizes the hard work and accomplishments of our business students,” said Barry O'Brien, dean, The Business School, Centennial College.

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Heart of Trent Event Recognizes Outstanding Contributions of Staff, Faculty, Retirees

The outstanding contributions of Trent faculty, staff and retirees were celebrated Wednesday at the University’s annual Heart of Trent employee appreciation event, hosted this year at Trent’s Durham GTA campus in Oshawa.

photo courtesy of trent UNIVERSITY.

“This event is a genuine celebration,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor. “It is an opportunity for our community to gather and recognize the successes and achievements of our dedicated staff and faculty – truly, the heart of Trent – throughout another momentous year. 

At the event, the University celebrated the 2022/23 recipients of the several esteemed awards, including: Team Innovation, Community Leadership, Eminent Service, Provost Award for Support Staff, the Nancy E. Simmons Smith Staff Award of Excellence, Research Impact Award, and Eminent Service Awards. Trent also recognized its long-serving employees and retirees as vital members of the Trent community. 

A full list of award winners is included below: 

Provost’s Award for Support Staff: Cassandra Aked, Academic Administrative Assistant, Trent University Durham GTA

Awarded annually to a support staff member who plays a key role in student engagement and retention and who makes a difference through their performance at Trent.  

Nancy E. Simmons Smith Staff Award of Excellence: Dana Capell, Senior Education Developer, Trent Centre for Teaching & Learning

Recognizes non-academic staff members who demonstrate excellence and exceptional commitment to Trent.  

Team Innovation Award: First Peoples House of Learning 

Recognizes a team, unit or department at Trent University whose innovative contributions have impacted the strategic objectives of the University.  

Trent Community Leadership Award: Linda Dsouza, Human Resources & Labour Relations Advisor

Recognizes faculty and staff who make exceptional contributions to the local community in Peterborough or Durham regions.  

Jackie Muldoon Award for Faculty Service: Dr. Susan Wurtele, Associate Professor, Geography and Professor David Newhouse, Director, Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies

This award recognizes faculty who have served with distinction in institutional governance roles, provided collegial and effective service to committees, departments and colleges, led program and department renewal efforts, achieved advancements in administrative responsibilities and advanced the role of faculty in contributing to the academic and overall success of the University and the profession at large. 

Trent University Research Impact Award: Dr. Finis Dunaway, Professor, History

Honours Trent researchers or research teams stewarding original and impactful research that has contributed significantly to society on a local, regional, national or international scale.  

Emeritus Awards: Mak Arvin, Jonathan Bordo, Lynne Davis, Teresa DeCicco, Paul Elliott, Joanne Findon, Carolyn Kay, Michele Lacombe, Marrie Mumford, Elizabeth Nisbet, Mark Parnis, Igor Svishchev, Catherine Thibeault, Kristen Woodend, Barbara Znamirowski 

2023 Long Service Awards 

· 25 Years: Anne Parsons, Brian Thackeray, Elena Koudiakova, Stephanie Williams, Bruce Cater, Suzanne Bailey, Kenneth Coughlin, Anne Meneley, Steven Rafferty, James Schaefer, Loretta Durst 

· 30 years: Holger Hintelmann  

· 35 years: Cheryl Mckenna-Neuman, Inge Lovell, Kimberley Rumball 

· 40 Years - Barbara Znamirowski 

The following 2022/23 Trent University retirees were also honoured at the event: Jodi Aoki, Kathy Axcell, Jose Blanco, Stephen Bocking, James Buttle, Robert Clarke, Wayne Craft, Tim Foster, Mary Goldsmith, Tara Harrington, Denise Hartwick, Paul Heard, Donna Hoard, Pauline Johnston, Carolyn Kapron, Carolyn Kay, Michele Lacombe, Peter Lafleur, Chris Los, Jean Luyben, Tim MacInnes, Barbara Marshall, Lorna Patterson, Judy Pinto, Tony Porter, Pauline Rioux, Marisa Scigliano, Margaret Steffler, Igor Svishchev, Danial Swinnerton, Cathy Thompson and Michele Venton.  

Eminent Service Awards: Tara Harrington, Associate University Secretary (Senate) and Human Rights Advisor; Barbara Znamirowski, Senior Librarian; Brenda Maracle-O’Toole ‘77, Administrative Assistant, Indigenous Studies Ph.D.

Presented annually to recognize individuals distinguished by a track record of outstanding contributions to University life that go beyond the performance of their job or role.

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Trent University President Leo Groarke Announces Intention to Step Down From Presidency

Trent University President Dr. Leo Groarke to step down from his presidency as of June 2024, deciding not to pursue a third term as president.

photo courtesy of trent university.

Dr. Leo Groarke has announced that he will not pursue a third term as president, and has instead decided to conclude his tenure as president and vice chancellor of Trent University at the end of June 2024. He will be leaving a legacy of accomplishments that have advanced Trent’s academic, administrative and community profile, says Trent.

“A university president and vice chancellor wears many hats, and President Groarke has donned them all,” said Debra Cooper Burger, chair of Trent University’s Board of Governors. “Over the past decade, the postsecondary sector has evolved in the face of both opportunities and challenges. President Groarke, through careful, critical, and compassionate leadership, has helped Trent University flourish as an academic institution, here in our local communities in Peterborough and Durham GTA, as well as globally. We are confident in the future of Trent, due in large part to President Groarke’s work ensuring a strong and healthy position for our University.”

Among the many highlights, President Groarke has led unprecedented year-over-year undergraduate and graduate enrolment growth, establishing a strong financial basis for the future of the University across both its Peterborough and Durham GTA campuses. Other fiscal successes have included a groundbreaking inaugural debenture, program development, the careful fiscal management of the institution, and, most recently, Trent’s partnership with the University Pension Plan established by the University of Guelph, Queen’s University, and the University of Toronto.

Emphasizing student success through the interdisciplinary education that Trent values, President Groarke spearheaded the launch of four Schools of Study at Trent—focused on the Study of Canada, Environment, Business, and Indigenous Studies. More than 20 undergraduate and 13 new graduate programs have also launched during President Groarke’s tenure. They include: Conservation Biology, Social Work, Data Science, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, the Medical Professional Stream, and Child & Youth Studies, as well as Master of Instrumental Chemical Analysis, Master of Nursing, Master of Management and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Social Research.

Other initiatives have included creative international partnerships like the Law & Arts/Business, Chemical Engineering dual degrees and medical science programs with Swansea University, as well as innovative agreements for medical pathways with several institutions in the Caribbean.Recent initiatives include: the launch of paid co-op streams in more than 20 academic programs across the Humanities, Social Sciences and Sciences; the creation of the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership; the addition of eight prestigious Canada Research Chairs; and a major expansion of experiential learning opportunities and study abroad programming. During President Groarke’s two terms, international enrolment at Trent has grown from 7 per cent to 15.5 per cent of University enrolment.

“I have been very fortunate to work with a strong Executive team, supportive Boards of Governors, and positive labour and student unions,” Dr. Groarke commented. “Together it has allowed Trent to evolve in ways that are good for our students, our researchers, and our communities. I am inspired when I see the hustle and bustle on our two expanding campuses, note the growth of the reputation of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and witness the breadth of our community engagements. There is always more that can be accomplished and I hope to contribute more in the year to come, and then as a professor when I pass the torch on to a new president on June 30, 2024.”

President Groarke has made connections with alumni and a culture of philanthropy key priorities during his two terms. He has overseen the successful completion of the $56.8 million Unleash the Potential Campaign, a $6.6 million Campaign for Trent Durham GTA, and recently launched the University’s most ambitious campaign to date – the $100 million Campaign for Momentous Change. These campaigns have added dynamic new spaces to Trent’s campus landscapes – including the Student Centre, Forensic Crime Scene Facility and Trent Durham’s residence and academic building. A personal philanthropic supporter of the University, President Groarke established the Louis and Paul Groarke Philosophy Endowment.

Equity, diversity, inclusion has been another priority during Dr. Groarke’s presidency. He has continued to emphasize Trent’s role as a leader in reconciliation and Indigenous education; prioritized the health and well-being of students, the campus and our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic; supported initiatives stemming from an anti-racism task force report; and emphasized positive labour relations between administration and Trent’s unions.

Trent University’s continued ranking as the #1 undergraduate university in Ontario for 12 years in a row is further reflection of President Groarke’s contributions to the institution’s growing reputation nationally and internationally, and testimony to his leadership and pursuit of excellence for the institution and its staff, faculty, and students.

Celebrations to honour President Groarke at the end of his term in June 2024 will be planned and announced at a later date. The Board is currently developing the new Presidential Mandate, and details regarding the search for Trent’s ninth president and vice-chancellor will be shared as they are developed. Updates will be shared online.

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