Outstanding Faculty Celebrated at Trent University's Teaching and Research Excellence Awards

Trent University has recognized eight individuals for inspiring and supporting students, colleagues and the broader Trent community at their annual Teaching and Research Excellence Awards at Stohn Hall on Wednesday afternoon.

(From left to right) Dr. Kira Borden, Dr. Andrew Loeb, Dr. Nour Hammami, Cathy Bruce, Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, Dr. Stephanie Rutherford and Jonathon Smith. (absent) Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer and Dr. Joshua Synenko. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The teaching and research excellence spans several subjects, including Canadian Studies, Child & Youth Studies, Environmental Science, English, Cultural Studies, and Biology.

“At Trent, dynamic teaching and critical research go hand in hand. Our Teaching and Research Excellence Awards recognize the people who propel Trent’s strengths in both areas. This year's recipients have demonstrated excellence in how they engage students and advance knowledge in their fields,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Their work is thoughtful, rigorous, and grounded in care for student learning. It is wonderful to be able to recognize their contributions to our academic community.” 

The following are this year’s award recipients:

Dr. Nour Hammanmi. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Nour Hammami, Child &Youth Studies

Dr. Nour Hammami is an assistant professor in Child & Youth Studies at Trent Durham Greater Toronto Area. Dr. Hammami is recognized as a creative, inspiring, and generous educator whose interactive teaching, supportive mentorship, and ability to simplify complex material through real‑life examples have left a meaningful impact on her students. Dr. Hammami builds students’ confidence through ongoing encouragement and creates safer learning environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. Dr. Hammami inspires and challenges students, facilitating difficult discussion topics with sensitivity and care. Her passion for teaching is evident in all aspects of her work, as is her steadfast commitment to students’ success. 

From a nominator: “Nour genuinely cares about her students and always takes the time to make sure no one is left behind. Her support motivated me to participate more and believe in my ability to succeed academically.” 

Distinguished Research Award: Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer

The 2026 Distinguished Research Award honours Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North and a professor in the School for the Study of Canada. He is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts on Arctic and Northern security, governance, and policy. His research has shaped national and global conversations on climate change, emerging security challenges, and northern sovereignty, while advancing Indigenous‑centered, community‑engaged approaches.  

Since joining Trent University in 2018, he has produced an exceptional body of scholarship that continues to inform government decision‑making. Dr. Lackenbauer founded the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) in 2019, which has since become a major policy research hub with significant external funding. A prolific and award‑winning author, he is also a former Killam Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Canadian Forces College, which underscores his outstanding impact and influence. 

From a nominator: “His long-standing relationships with Northern Indigenous partners ensure that his research is conducted in the North, with the North, and for the North. This approach strengthens both the scholarly integrity and the real-world impact of his work.”

Dr. Andrew Loeb. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Award for Excellence in Online Teaching: Dr. Andrew Loeb, English

Dr. Andrew Loeb, an assistant professor in English, is recognized for his innovative teaching methods and course design that foster student engagement and success. Nominators noted how Dr. Loeb seamlessly incorporates online learning tools, such as Hypothesis and voice recordings, into his courses to support students’ learning. Dr. Loeb creates dynamic online learning environments that build a sense of connection and deeply enhance student learning at Trent.   

Dr. Kira Borden (left) With her daughter Nora (middle) and and partner Nick Gralewicz (right). Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Early Career Researcher Award: Dr. Kira Borden, Trent School of the Environment

Dr. Kira Borden, an assistant professor at Trent University’s School of the Environment since 2022, has rapidly built an outstanding research program focused on plant-soil interactions and climate‑resilient agroecosystems. In just over two years she has secured significant competitive research funding as principal investigator, earned Trent’s 2025 Merit Award in Research, and produced an impressive record of published scientific articles in high‑impact journals. Her research integrates mechanistic plant-soil interaction research with applied studies of soil carbon cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in agroecosystems. Professor Borden’s work is already influencing sustainable agriculture and food‑security strategies across diverse farming contexts as she collaborates with farmers, government scientists, and industry partners to apply nature‑based climate solutions. 

Early Career Researcher Awards: Dr. Joshua Synenko, Cultural Studies

Dr. Joshua Synenko, an assistant professor in Cultural Studies, is emerging as a leading voice in media studies through his research on technological, cultural, and political transformations in artistic practice. His growing scholarly profile includes a strong record of peer‑reviewed publications, editorial leadership, and major grant activity. Professor Synenko’s monograph, Reconfiguring Locative Art, along with his role in founding the international Media Theory Association and organizing conferences in Toronto and Naples, highlights his expanding global impact.  

Dr. Stephanie Rutherford. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Award for Faculty Leadership in Community-Based Research: Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, Trent School of the Environment

Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, an associate professor in the Trent School of the Environment, is recognized for her strong commitment to community‑based research and to supporting student achievement. Through her longstanding collaboration with the Trent Community Research Centre, she has mentored students on applied research projects exploring connections between nature, mental health, and pro‑environmental behaviour, work that directly informs community sustainability initiatives. Professor Rutherford’s supervision consistently enables students to translate academic learning into meaningful community impact, exemplifying faculty leadership that advances both research engagement and student success. 

Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

CUPE 3908-1 Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, Biology

Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, a sessional faculty member in Biology, is praised for her ability to creatively adapt labs and assignments based on student feedback to create immersive learning experiences. Professor Jian-Javdan inspires students with her passion for mammals and conservation and empowers them by creating a respectful and supportive learning environment where they can learn from mistakes and thrive.  

Jonathon Smith. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance: Jonathon Smith, Child & Youth Studies

Jonathon Smith, a teaching assistant in Child & Youth Studies, is recognized for his outstanding support with academic writing and APA formatting, and for his ability to give constructive feedback that builds students’ confidence. His approachable teaching style fosters an inclusive, impactful learning environment that prioritizes student success, supported by his willingness to meet with students outside of class and share helpful academic resources.

@ptbo_canada The following are the recipients: Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Nour Hammami Distinguished Research Award: Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer Award for Faculty Leadership in Community-Based Research: Dr. Stephanie Rutherford Early Career Researcher Award: Dr. Kira Borden and Dr. Joshua Synenko CUPE 3908-1 Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan '13 (Traill College) Award for Excellence in Online Teaching: Dr. Andrew Loeb Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance: Jonathon Smith '21 #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #trentuniversity ♬ Happy / Video CM / Ukulele ♬ Cooking / Family(897363) - ImoKenpi-Dou

“Trent researchers continue to drive the University’s reputation for scholarly excellence, and this year’s award recipients exemplify the creativity and dedication behind that success,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, interim vice-president of Research and Innovation at Trent University. “Transformative research is a long-term commitment. These awards celebrate both those with established records of sustained achievement and those whose promising early work is opening new pathways of discovery. Together, they demonstrate the strength and momentum of Trent’s research community and its ongoing contributions to knowledge creation.” 

“The teaching awards celebrate educators and teaching assistants who foster the kind of dynamic learning environments that students can expect from Trent University,” noted Dr. Kristy Buccieri, acting associate dean of Teaching and Learning. “The individuals recognized this year have demonstrated exemplary pedagogical practices, ensuring that students remain at the heart of the learning process.”

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Peterborough Regional Health Centre and Trent University Advance Healthcare Collaborations at Inaugural ‘Collider’ Event

The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) and Trent University held the first annual joint Collider event, bringing together more than 100 clinicians, researchers, students and staff to shape community-focused care through research collaborations and knowledge sharing.

photo courtesy of the peterborough regional health centre.

“By creating opportunities for our clinicians, researchers and students to come together, we’re turning collaboration into something tangible,” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, President & CEO of PRHC. “Collider is about showing what’s possible when we combine clinical insight, academic expertise and real-world data, and it’s only the beginning.”

Collider marks the latest milestone in a collaboration formalized in 2025 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PRHC and Trent University. Over the past year, the two institutions have been working to move from alignment to action, focused on connecting people, ideas, and infrastructure to accelerate healthcare research, education and innovation.

“This Collider event brings people and ideas together. It reflects Trent’s commitment to working alongside community partners to respond to regional needs,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, President and vice chancellor of Trent University. “By connecting Trent researchers with clinicians at PRHC, we are advancing work that is grounded in community priorities and focused on improving health outcomes close to home and with impacts that reach much further afield.”

One of the first research projects to begin collaboration is led by Trent professors Dr. Amy Greer and Dr. Wesley Burr. In collaboration with PRHC and paramedic service colleagues from PCCP, Greer and Burr, alongside Trent M.Sc. student Shawn Yip, are exploring patterns and trends in toxic drug poisonings in our local community with a focus on the unique nature of healthcare service delivery in large, mixed urban-rural regions.

Research projects emerging through Collider also have access to a new source of funding, which was announced at the event. The Natalie Beavis Collaborative Research Grant, named in honour of a two-time Trent alum and PRHC leader who passed away this past December, will help move ideas from concept to implementation.

“Networking events like Collider are critically important to the advancement of research and projects that are focused on multi-faceted issues, such as healthcare,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, interim vice-president of Research & Innovation at Trent. “Opportunities for experts to engage in discussions facilitate better questions and investigations, and ultimately better solutions. Providing targeted funding enables those ideas to come to life.”

Looking ahead, PRHC and Trent are working to further align priorities, expand joint research initiatives and develop a sustainable community of practice. 

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Trent University Launches Ggwepnandizamin Stewardship Plan for 900-Acre University Green Network

Trent University has unveiled the Ggwepnandizamin Stewardship Plan, a seven year roadmap to care for the nearly 900 acres of wetlands, woodlands, farmland and naturalized green space that make up 60 per cent of Trent University’s Symons Campus.

photo courtesy of trent university.

“Ggwepnandizamin, means ‘together, putting our best effort forward towards something important.’ This name, gifted by the Michi Saagiig Elders and Knowledge Keepers Council at Trent, reflects our responsibility to care for our campus lands in a way that honours both their ecological significance and cultural meaning,” said Julie Davis, vice president of External Relations & Development. “Created through engagements with Michi Saagiig First Nations, local organizations, nature focused community groups and our campus community, the plan is a key implementation step of the award-winning Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan.”

Recently approved by the Trent Board of Governors, the Ggwepnandizamin (gwep-nan-diz-a-min) Stewardship Plan establishes a systems-level approach to caring for the land, recognizing diverse green spaces across the campus as an interconnected landscape. This holistic framework considers the relationships between ecological systems and the University’s academic, research and operational priorities to promote long-term resilience and sustainability. The plan also acknowledges the importance of these lands for Indigenous ceremony and placemaking and will include ongoing engagement with knowledge holders to ensure continued knowledge exchange.

Implementation will be carried out through a detailed work plan, currently in development and supported by integrated monitoring and ongoing engagement with the Trent Elders and Knowledge Holders Council and Michi Saagiig land consultation officers.

“These lands have carried our stories, our ancestors and our teachings since time immemorial. Through Ggwepnandizamin, we walk forward together with Trent University to ensure the land continues to teach, to heal and to guide future generations,” said Tom Cowie, consultation Indigenous Knowledge lead at Hiawatha First Nation.

For more information on the Ggwepnandizamin Stewardship Plan, visit the link.

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Trent University Students Showcase New Ideas for the Future of Work at STRIDE Challenge

After months of preparation and mentorship from business experts at Trent University Durham GTA, three teams earned top honours at the 2026 Business STRIDE Challenge for their innovative approaches to hiring, hybrid work and artificial intelligence.

Master of Management students and T.Member champions Zeyu Xie, Sumaya Ahana and Buyang Li celebrate their win with Zabeen Hirji. photo courtesy of trent university.

Hosted at Trent Durham, the first annual STRIDE Challenge showcased student examinations of real workplace challenges and shifts in how organizations recruit, operate and evolve. The competition aimed to create a collective learning opportunity for students to engage with diverse perspectives, explore future pathways and take early actions in responsible leadership.

Thirty students across nine teams competed in three distinct streams. for undergraduate students from the University’s Business Administration program, graduate students in Trent’s Master of Management program and students from local high schools.  

“We are so impressed by how all students tackled the issues facing today’s workforce and showed their creativity and skillsets in developing ideas that respond to them in practical ways,” said Dr. Ken Chen, professor in the School of Business at Trent University Durham GTA and STRIDE coordinator. “The competition highlights the impact of applied, real-world learning, an approach emphasized in the Trent School of Business. Working with the students over the past few months, I saw how much they deepened their understanding of academic theory and the working world they will enter.” 

STRIDE teams competed for more than $10,000 in prizes, with three winners receiving both a cash prize and a charitable donation credit to give to the organization of their choice. First-place winners in each stream were: 

• T.Member: Master of Management Stream  
  Recognized for their proposal for an AI-enabled training system designed to help organizations retain knowledge and address labour shortages. Using a dry cleaning business as a case study, their model captures practical expertise through AI sensor-based technology to support onboarding, improve workplace safety and strengthen long-term skill development across workforce generations. 

• TAEQN: Bachelor of Business Administration Stream  
  Winning Business Administration team TAEQN designed a structured onboarding model for hybrid workplaces that tailors training and communication to individual employees using cultural dimension surveys. The model supports flexibility while addressing shifting workforce expectations, mentorship and professional development needs and challenges such as employee isolation. 

• Triple Point: High School Stream  
  High school teams were challenged to rethink how employers hire for entry-level roles based on skills rather than credentials. Team Triple Point (Pickering) developed a multi-stage digital hiring platform that shifts focus from credentials on paper to performance. Combining AI-enabled blind screening with assessments, team exercises and interviews, the model helps employers build a more complete picture of candidates and better match them to roles. 

“What impressed me most was how students combined analytical thinking with human insight to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in the future of work,” said Zabeen Hirji ‘25, founding sponsor of STRIDE and chancellor-designate of Trent University. “They showed that it’s not just about technology or policy, it’s about people. Experiences like STRIDE help build the human capabilities that will define leadership in an AI-driven world, one that is more human, not less.” 

Throughout the competition, students also engaged directly with judges and industry experts, including Stephen Harrington, national leader of Workforce Strategy & Insights at Deloitte Canada, and Omo Akintan, chief engagement and people officer at the University Pension Plan. 

“The chance to connect with the judges, during our presentation and at the networking portion, was really valuable as I look ahead to graduating this year,” said Trent Durham Business Administration student Misba Arian. “It was nice that they were interested in our presentation and ideas and I’ve made a career connection that I will keep for the future.”  

Learn more about the STRIDE Challenge and the Trent School of Business by clicking the links.

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Eight Trent University Professors Recognized For Their Innovation and Dedication In Teaching and Research

Trent University is celebrating teaching and research excellence, recognizing eight individuals for innovation in Canadian Studies, Child & Youth Studies, Environmental Science, English, Cultural Studies and Biology, as well as dedication to inspiring and supporting students, colleagues and the broader Trent community.

photo courtesy of trent university.

“At Trent, dynamic teaching and critical research go hand in hand. Our Teaching and Research Excellence Awards recognize the people who propel Trent’s strengths in both areas. This year's recipients have demonstrated excellence in how they engage students and advance knowledge in their fields,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice chancellor of Trent University. “Their work is thoughtful, rigorous, and grounded in care for student learning. It is wonderful to be able to recognize their contributions to our academic community.”

The 2025-26 award recipients will be recognized at Trent’s Celebration of Faculty Excellence in Teaching and Research on April 29.

Award Recipients:

Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Nour Hammami, Child &Youth Studies 

Dr. Nour Hammami is an assistant professor in Child & Youth Studies at Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area. Professor Hammami is recognized as a creative, inspiring and generous educator whose interactive teaching, supportive mentorship, and ability to simplify complex material through real‑life examples have left a meaningful impact on her students. The university recognizes Prof. Hammami for building students’ confidence through ongoing encouragement and creates safer learning environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. Prof. Hammami inspires and challenges students, facilitating difficult discussion topics with sensitivity and care. Her passion for teaching is evident in all aspects of her work, as is her steadfast commitment to students’ success.

Distinguished Research Award: Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canadian Studies

The 2026 Distinguished Research Award honours Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North and a professor in the School for the Study of Canada. He is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts on Arctic and Northern security, governance, and policy. His research has shaped national and global conversations on climate change, emerging security challenges and northern sovereignty, while advancing Indigenous‑centered, community‑engaged approaches. Since joining Trent University in 2018, the university says he has produced an exceptional body of scholarship that continues to inform government decision‑making. Professor Lackenbauer founded the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) in 2019, now a major policy research hub with significant external funding. A prolific and award‑winning author, he is also a former Killam Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Canadian Forces College, which underscore his outstanding impact and influence.

Award for Excellence in Online Teaching: Dr. Andrew Loeb, English  

Dr. Andrew Loeb, an assistant professor in English, is recognized for his innovative teaching methods and course design that foster student engagement and success. Nominators noted the ways in which Dr. Loeb seamlessly incorporates online learning tools, such as hypothesis and voice recordings, into his courses to support students’ learning. The university notes that Professor Loeb creates dynamic online learning environments that build a sense of connection and deeply enhance student learning at Trent.

Early Career Researcher Award: Dr. Kira Borden, Trent School of the Environment 

Dr. Kira Borden, an assistant professor at Trent University’s School of the Environment since 2022, has rapidly built an outstanding research program focused on plant-soil interactions and climate‑resilient agroecosystems. In just over two years she has secured significant competitive research funding as principal investigator, earned Trent’s 2025 Merit Award in Research, and produced an impressive record of published scientific articles in high‑impact journals. Her research integrates mechanistic plant-soil interaction research with applied studies of soil carbon cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in agroecosystems. Trent has said that Professor Borden’s work is already influencing sustainable agriculture and food‑security strategies across diverse farming contexts as she collaborates with farmers, government scientists and industry partners to apply nature‑based climate solutions.

Early Career Researcher Awards: Dr. Joshua Synenko, Cultural Studies

Dr. Joshua Synenko, an assistant professor in Cultural Studies, is emerging as a leading voice in media studies through his research on technological, cultural and political transformations in artistic practice. His growing scholarly profile includes a strong record of peer‑reviewed publications, editorial leadership and major grant activity. Professor Synenko’s monograph, Reconfiguring Locative Art, along with his role in founding the international Media Theory Association and organizing conferences in Toronto and Naples, highlight his expanding global impact. 

Award for Faculty Leadership in Community-Based Research: Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, Trent School of the Environment 

Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, an associate professor in the Trent School of the Environment, is recognized for her strong commitment to community‑based research and the support of student achievement. Through her longstanding collaboration with the Trent Community Research Centre, she has mentored students on applied research projects exploring connections between nature, mental health and pro‑environmental behaviour, work that directly informs community sustainability initiatives. Professor Rutherford’s supervision consistently enables students to translate academic learning into meaningful community impact, exemplifying faculty leadership that advances both research engagement and student success.

CUPE 3908-1 Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, Biology

Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, a sessional faculty member in Biology, is praised for her ability to creatively adapt labs and assignments based on student feedback to create immersive learning experiences. Professor Jian-Javdan inspires students with her passion for mammals and conservation and empowers them by creating a respectful and supportive learning environment where they can learn from mistakes and thrive. 

Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance: Jonathon Smith, Child & Youth Studies

Jonathon Smith, a teaching assistant in Child & Youth Studies, is recognized for his outstanding support in academic writing and APA formatting, and his ability to give constructive and supportive feedback in ways that build students’ confidence. His approachable teaching style fosters an inclusive, impactful learning environment that prioritizes student success, supported by his willingness to meet with students outside of class and share helpful academic resources. 

“Trent researchers continue to drive the University’s reputation for scholarly excellence, and this year’s award recipients exemplify the creativity and dedication behind that success,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, interim vice president of Research and Innovation at Trent University. “Transformative research is a long-term commitment. These awards celebrate both those with established records of sustained achievement and those whose promising early work is opening new pathways of discovery. Together, they demonstrate the strength and momentum of Trent’s research community and its ongoing contributions to knowledge creation.”

“The teaching awards celebrate educators and teaching assistants who foster the kind of dynamic learning environments that students can expect from Trent University,” said Dr. Kristy Buccieri, acting associate dean of Teaching and Learning. “The individuals recognized this year have demonstrated exemplary pedagogical practices, ensuring that students remain at the heart of the learning process.”

Learn more about this year’s teaching and research award recipients, and the sixth annual Celebration of Faculty Excellence in Teaching and Research, an event hosted by Trent Teaching Commons and the Office of Research and Innovation in partnership with the Trent Community Research Centre.

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Civic Engagement Trailblazers to Receive Honorary Degrees From Trent University

Three individuals whose work has contributed to Canada’s civic life and public discourse: Judy Rebick, Dr. Mike DeGagné and Desmond Cole will each receive honorary Doctor of Laws from Trent University in recognition of their national leadership.

Trent University names three trailblazers, Judy Rebick, Mike DeGagné and Desmond Cole as 2026 honorary degree recipients. photo courtesy of trent university.

“Trent’s 2026 honorary degree recipients are trailblazers whose work has shaped public discourse in Canada. Each has demonstrated a combination of leadership and resolve, advancing responsive policy and practice,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “Their contributions have strengthened civic understanding and remind us of the role education plays in preparing individuals to engage thoughtfully with the world. We are proud to recognize their impact and to celebrate them alongside our graduates.”  

Honorary degrees are conferred during Convocation ceremonies, which take place June 2 to 10 in Peterborough and on June 12 in Oshawa.  

Judy Rebick is a writer, journalist and political activist recognized as one of Canada’s leading feminist voices. In the early 1980’s, she played a prominent role in winning legal abortion in Canada and later served as president of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women, fighting to improve sexual assault criminal code, supporting Indigenous women’s constitutional rights, pioneering anti-racist transformation and making the feminist movement a powerful force in the country. Her advocacy has also championed Indigenous rights as well as supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, people with disabilities and the labour movement. Rebick has authored several books, hosted two national CBC television programs, and founded rabble.ca, one of Canada’s leading independent online news platforms.

Rebick will be recognized at Trent Peterborough’s Convocation ceremony on June 3 at 2 p.m.

Dr. Mike DeGagné, a member of Northwest Angle 37 First Nation, is a leader in Indigenous education and reconciliation. As founding executive director of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation, a national Indigenous organization addressing the legacy of Canada’s Residential School system, he helped lay important groundwork for reconciliation. With his appointment as president and vice chancellor of Nipissing University, he became one of the first Indigenous presidents of a Canadian public university, advancing inclusive approaches to higher education. DeGagné also held the position of president and CEO of Indspire, Canada’s largest Indigenous-led charity, overseeing national programs that support and invest in First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. His leadership has been recognized through numerous honours, including the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario and the Indspire Award for Public Service. 

DeGagné will be recognized at Trent Peterborough’s Convocation ceremony on June 4 at 2 p.m.

Desmond Cole is an award-winning journalist, author and broadcaster whose work has brought critical issues including racial profiling, police accountability, and immigration justice, to the forefront of national debate. He is widely recognized for his 2015 Toronto Life article, “The Skin I’m In,” which sparked a nationwide reckoning on police carding and earned three National Magazine Awards. His bestselling book, The Skin We’re In: A Year of Black Resistance and Power, won the Toronto Book Award and was shortlisted for the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing.

Cole will be recognized at Trent Durham’s Convocation ceremony on June 12 at 2 p.m.

Further details of Trent’s in-person convocation ceremonies, including full profiles of all 2026 honorary degree recipients, can be found online. 

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Trent University Welcomed Future Students to Explore Scholarships, Academic Programs and Student Life at Open House Event

Trent University welcomed prospective students to its Open House event on Friday, giving attendees the opportunity to learn about renewable entrance scholarships, paid co-op programs, research opportunities and student life.

All photos courtesy of Trent University.

All photos courtesy of Trent University.

All photos courtesy of Trent University.

Visitors had the opportunity to connect directly with faculty, staff and current students to explore academic programs, hands‑on learning, supports and life on campus.

“Students and their supporters want to know that university will open doors; academically, financially and professionally,” says Marilyn Burns, Vice President of Communications and Enrolment. “Trent’s investments in renewable scholarships, bursaries and hands-on learning reflect our commitment to supporting students from day one through to graduation and beyond.”

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Two Trent Excalibur Student Athletes Honoured with 2025 to 2026 Bonnie M. Patterson Award

Trent University Excalibur student athletes Natalie Fournier and Aly Saydam are being recognized with the 2025 to 2026 Bonnie M. Patterson Award for distinguishing themselves in competition, the classroom and the community.

photo courtesy of trent university, facebook.

Natalie Fournier, a dual-sport athlete in women’s volleyball and lacrosse, and Aly Saydam, a veteran setter on the men’s volleyball team, have each received the $2,500 award, which recognizes returning student athletes who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement and excellence in varsity sport.

Named in honour of former Trent president and vice-chancellor Bonnie M. Patterson (1998–2009), the award celebrates student athletes who reflect the values of commitment, teamwork and community contribution.

Psychology student Natalie Fournier (from Georgetown, ON.) has distinguished herself as one of Trent’s most accomplished dual-sport student-athletes, excelling at the varsity level in both volleyball and lacrosse while maintaining a strong academic standing.

A program leader and offensive force for the Excalibur women’s volleyball team, Fournier (Gzowski College) cemented her place in the record books this season, becoming the program’s all-time leader in both kills (542) and points (646). In 2025 to 2026 alone, the outside hitter recorded 126 kills, 151 points, 95 digs, 36 assists, eight blocks and 17 service aces, continuing to drive the team’s success with her dynamic and consistent play.

As a midfielder/defender with the women’s lacrosse team, Fournier played a key role in securing the 2025 OUA Championship, the program’s fourth championship title, and was recognized as an OUA All-Star, highlighting her versatility and ability to excel across two varsity sports in different seasons.

Off the field, Fournier is equally committed to serving her community. During the summer of 2025, she volunteered with Compass Community Services, supporting their Tele-Connect program, a phone outreach service that provides social connection and medication reminders for individuals navigating mental health challenges. She also gives back to the next generation of athletes by running youth secondary school clinics in both volleyball and lacrosse and volunteering at Trent-hosted high school tournaments for both programs.

Aly Saydam (from Ottawa, ON.), a fourth-year Kinesiology student, has been the steady hand guiding the Excalibur men’s volleyball program from the setter position while maintaining his academic standing on the honour roll and a renewable scholarship, earning him the title of OUA Academic All-Canadian.

During the 2025 to 2026 season, Aly recorded 405 assists, orchestrating the offence with poise and precision. He added 79 digs, 28 kills, 15 blocks, seven aces and 46 points, showcasing his well-rounded skillset and willingness to contribute in every facet of the game.

Saydam is a member of the team’s Leadership Group, fostering a positive culture within the program. He also served as Tournament Convenor for Trent’s Boys High School Volleyball Tournament, helping deliver opportunities for young athletes to compete at the university level.

In addition to his contribution to the volleyball community, Saydam is a Gzowski College ambassador, helping students navigate campus life and supporting college programming and events. He is also a member of the 1EX Council and the Trent Kinesiology Society, serving as the fourth-year representative. This year he volunteered for the East vs. West Charity Hockey Game, contributing to one of Trent’s long-standing campus fundraising initiatives through the Colleges.

Off campus, Saydam has extended his passion for kinesiology and community health through a placement with On the Move, a Peterborough-based program that offers community exercise classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease throughout the Kawartha region.

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Trent University Exceeds United Way Annual Campaign Goal

United Way Peterborough and District and Trent University came together to celebrate another successful year of partnership, as Trent’s 2025 Workplace Campaign raises $124,847.

photo courtesy of the united way peterborough and district.

Since the mid-1960s, Trent University faculty and staff have united annually to host fundraising events like their signature kick off barbecue and chilli cook off.

“It’s always heartwarming to see our community show up for one another, but what I find especially touching is when we can do so with our friends and colleagues at Trent for 60 years in a row. Sixty years,” said United Way CEO Jim Russell. “Each year, our friends at Trent have shown up and approached their campaign with enthusiasm and energy. Our team looks forward to building on this remarkable relationship for decades to come.”

While Trent University’s workplace campaign has concluded, the broader community campaign remains active through March 31. United Way continues to fundraise and relies on the generosity of local donors to meet their community campaign goal of $1.6 million.

To make an impact with United Way Peterborough and District you can donate online, in person (277 Stewart St.) or over the phone.

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Rebecca van Staalduinen Named Head Coach of Excalibur Women’s Volleyball

Director of Athletics and Recreation at Trent University Nathan McFadden announced the appointment of Rebecca van Staalduinen as the new head coach of the Excalibur women's volleyball program. 

Photo courtesy of trent university.

A longtime member of the program, van Staalduinen becomes the first female head coach in the history of Trent women's volleyball. Van Staalduinen '10 (Champlain College) brings more than a decade of experience with the Excalibur to her new role. After completing 10 seasons as associate coach, she begins her 11th season with the program as head coach.

A graduate of Trent's Biology program with a specialization in Health Sciences, she has been a dedicated contributor to Excalibur volleyball both on the court as a student-athlete, and on the sidelines as a coach. 

"Rebecca's commitment to Trent women's volleyball and her passion for our student-athletes and their holistic development make her an outstanding choice to lead our women's program," said McFadden. "Her experience as both a student-athlete and coach at Trent gives her a deep understanding of our values and how we want to continue to build a successful program." 

Van Staalduinen first joined the Excalibur coaching staff during the 2014–15 season and has played a key role in the program's growth and development ever since. 

"I've been part of this program since 2010; as a student-athlete, an alum, and an assistant coach, and it has shaped who I am," said van Staalduinen. "I'm honoured to now step into the role of Head Coach, building on the strong foundation Colin has established over the past three seasons while continuing to move the program forward. This program means a great deal to me, and I'm excited about the future and the opportunity to continue growing it alongside our student-athletes and staff." 

Prior to her coaching career, van Staalduinen enjoyed a decorated playing career. She competed for one season at Fleming College, where she earned National Scholar recognition, before continuing her career with the Excalibur at Trent. During her four seasons as a student-athlete, she was named an Ontario Colleges Athletic Association First Team All-Star twice and a Second Team All-Star once. She helped lead Trent to an OCAA bronze medal in the 2013 to 2014 season and was named an OCAA Championship All-Star. Van Staalduinen was also a two-time team MVP and represented the program at the OCAA All-Star Game on three occasions. 

Her development as a coach has also included national-level training opportunities. In 2022 to 20223, van Staalduinen was selected to participate in the U SPORTS Female Apprentice Coach Program, an initiative designed to increase the number of women in coaching roles across Canadian universities by pairing developing coaches with experienced mentors.

As part of the transition, former head coach Colin Walker will remain with the program in a mentorship and senior advisory capacity with the women's team while continuing in his role as head coach of the men's volleyball program.

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