Community Members Honoured at 2025 Civic Awards

The City of Peterborough recognized individuals and groups whose volunteer efforts, achievements, and contributions strengthened the community and enhanced residents’ quality of life at the 2025 Civic Awards, held at the McDonnel Street Community Centre on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough,

“The Civic Awards recognize the outstanding individuals and groups whose contributions and achievements have made a meaningful difference in our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.  “Through their volunteer efforts, dedication, and commitment to others, this year’s recipients have helped enrich the lives of residents across Peterborough. On behalf of City Council and the community, I extend congratulations and appreciation to all of the 2025 Civic Award recipients for the positive impact they have made.”

Civic Award recipients are first nominated by community members and each nomination is reviewed by a Citizen Appointment Selection Working Group. A list of candidates is then brought to City Council for consideration.  

Civic Award recipients are as follows: 

Community Betterment 

• Community Care Peterborough Visiting and Social Safety Volunteers

• Jan Williams-Stephen

• Alan Cavell

• Dr. Cam Crawford

• Tiffany Arcari

• Phillip Jolicoeur

• Makaya Dafoe

Cultural Betterment 

• Peterborough Folk Festival 2025 Board of Directors: Rob Davis, Megan Wells, Rebecca Schillemat, Chad Hogan, Carol Lawless, Tanye Nye, Lyn Giles, Emma Macdonald, Jennifer Jaruczek and Teresa Mycroft

• Peterborough Musicfest Volunteers: Lynda Motschenbacher, Marilyn Philpot, Matthew Cabanlig, Sharon Smith, Lucy Ferrill, Michael Shearer and Tracy Beverley

Athletic Award of Merit 

• Braxtin Howard

• Peterborough U8 Tigers Baseball: Weston Perrin, Lucas Nelson, Easton Condon, Louis Curry, Reed Tivy, Chase Massie, Camden Raftis, Declan Manol, Asher Young, Reign Mercer, Henry Helleman and Jackson Pyke

• Kawartha U9 Girls Lacrosse: Sienna Adams, Kinsley Briffett, Jocelyn Brioux, Carly Clark, Grace Crawford, Layla Doherty, Addie Harrald, Chloe Hunt, Nev McCormick, Olivia Oakley, Emma O’Halloran, Rylan Tully, and Perry White

• Anna Christensen  

• Reed Chamberlain  

Environmental Stewardship/Sustainability 

• Steve Paul

Mayor’s Youth Award 

• Natalie Keys

Holnbeck Award 

• Andrea Dodsworth 

Junior Athlete of the Year 

• Matthew Kathiravelu

Adult Athlete of the Year 

• Karl Allen

Senior Athlete of the Year 

• Scott Wasson

Youth Volunteer of the Year 

• Jenisha Sanjit Arora

Volunteer of the Year 

• Mary Jane Smith

Lifetime Achievement Award 

• The Late Paul Wilson

• Kathy Hiltz

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PRHC For Third Straight Year Awarded Highest Possible Standing By Accreditation Canada

Accreditation Canada has recognized the Peterborough Regional Health Centre for achieving Accreditation with Exemplary Standing – the highest possible designation for an accredited organization for a third consecutive time since 2017, announced on Thursday.

File Photo.

Every four years, a team of Accreditation Canada surveyors evaluates more than 2,700 standards for quality, safety, and efficiency at PRHC. Following a visit in April, PRHC received the designation as an ‘organizations that go beyond Accreditation Canada’s requirements and demonstrate excellence in quality improvement.’

“It’s a direct result of the hard work and dedication of every leader, healthcare professional, employee, volunteer and experience partner at PRHC that we’ve achieved this designation again in 2026,” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC president and CEO. “While we have continued to experience a number of systemic challenges, I’m incredibly proud of the work our people have done to set PRHC apart as a leader in transformation, adaptation and innovation among our hospital peers.”

According to a press release, the on-site survey team explicitly commended PRHC for its strong alignment with service excellence standards; consistent emphasis on people-centred care and interdisciplinary collaboration; focus on clear communication practices, such as regular huddles and structured patient handovers; and its strong education and competency development, supported by engaged clinical leadership and meaningful partnerships that strengthen transitions across the care continuum.

“It is my absolute pleasure to congratulate and thank everyone at PRHC for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care and support at every step of their care journey,” said Mikula. “This is a well-deserved achievement for everything you do, and a reflection of the qualities that make this such a remarkable team – here when you need us most.”

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City of Peterborough Hosting 2025 Civic Awards Ceremony On May 21

The City of Peerborough is hosting its 2025 Civic Awards ceremony on May 21 at 6 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City of Peterborough Civic Awards recognize individuals and teams for their achievements and contributions in 2025. The annual awards celebrate excellence and community leadership in areas including athletics, arts and culture, volunteerism, environmental stewardship and community betterment. 

The Awards honour individuals and groups across 12 award categories, recognizing residents and volunteers whose efforts have made a meaningful impact in the community. 

The event is open to the public.

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City of Peterborough Life-Saving Programs Receive Water Smart Award

The City of Peterborough’s drowning prevention and education programs received the Water Smart award from Lifesaving Society Ontario. 

File Photo.

The Water Smart award recognizes outstanding community service and leadership in drowning prevention education.   

A range of City-led initiatives contributed to the recognition, including free Swim to Survive lessons, the Fleming College Swim to Survive program, the Be Safe at the Beach social media campaign, week-long programming for National Drowning Prevention Week, and community pop-ups at local events. 

“This award is a reflection of the dedication and leadership of our aquatics staff, who are helping to keep residents safe while fostering a culture of water awareness,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “On behalf of City Council, I congratulate everyone involved in these important programs.” 

“Drowning prevention education is a critical part of building a safe and healthy community,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “This recognition speaks to the meaningful impact of these programs and the staff and partners behind them. Initiatives like Swim to Survive and public education campaigns help ensure residents of all ages have the knowledge and skills they need to enjoy spending time in the water with confidence.” 

Summer Ley, coordinator, aquatic programming and Jennifer Bell, Operations Support Manager, Programs and Partnerships, accepted the award on behalf of the City. 

“Sharing water smart messages with our community through events and initiatives helps prevent drownings and water-related injuries,” said Ley. “Each year, we’ve added new partnerships and activities to get people of all ages involved in learning how to be safe on, in or around the water, especially during the warmer months.” 

Lifesaving Society Ontario is a charitable organization that supports drowning prevention through programs such as Grade 3 Swim to Survive, leadership development funding, and Water Smart initiatives. 

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Seven Ladies Honoured at the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber's Luminary Awards For Women In Business

Seven women in business had the spotlight during the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards at Trent University’s Great Hall on Thursday afternoon.

Dr. Jenny Ingram (Kawartha Centre – Redefining Healthy Aging) - Legacy. All photos by David Tuan Bui.

Michelle Nguyen (New Canadians Centre) - One to Watch

Leanna Crump (Kawartha Family Health Clinic) - Trailblazer (absent)

Ashley Flynn (Blackrock Developments) - Barrier Buster

Jennie Lawson (Havelock Metal) - Building Belonging

Lois Tuffin (Volunteer Peterborough) - Community Catalyst

The Awards celebrated women who reflect the diversity and strength of women in business throughout Peterborough and the area, according to Susan Dunkley, Luminary Committee Chair and Chamber Board Chair.

“The Luminaries are about shining a light on the women who are not only building businesses but shaping our communities and redefining what leadership looks like,” she said. “Their courage, vision and generosity create ripple effects far beyond their own success. When we celebrate women in business, we don’t just recognize achievement; we ignite possibility for others.

The following are this year’s recipients:

• One to Watch: Michelle Nguyen (New Canadians Centre)

• Emerging Entrepreneur: Chasley Keepfer (Cheeky Duck Vineyard)

• Trailblazer: Leanne Crump (Kawrtha Family Health Clinic)

• Barrier Buster: Ashley Flynn (Blackrock Developments)

• Community Catalyst: Lois Tuffin (Volunteer Peterborough)

• Legacy: Dr. Jenny Ingram (Kawartha Centre – Redefining Healthy Aging)

“To be chosen as the recipient of the Legacy award this year just made my day and it’s wonderful,” said Ingram.

@ptbo_canada Seven women were honoured at the Peterborough & Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards for women in business! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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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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Fleming College Celebrate Phoenix Athletes With 53rd Varsity Awards Banquet

Over 130 student-athletes from Fleming College celebrated another athletic season and recognized exceptional players at the 53rd Annual Phoenix Varsity Awards Banquet on April 10.

Nicole Roy (left) and Thomas Kitchen (right) winning Women’s and Men’s Athlete of the year respectively and other high-honour awards at the banquet. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The special highlighted team, following their historic double-gold national championship win this season, were the Men’s and Women’s Loggersports teams. The Loggersports program took home the Male and Female Athlete of the Year, Female All-Around Athlete of the Year, All-Academic and Coach of the Year awards.

The 2025-2026 Fleming Phoenix varsity athlete awards were presented to:

Eric O’Rourke Memorial All-Around Athlete: Presented to a male and female athlete who performed at a high level while demonstrating leadership, commitment, and dedication.

• Nicole Roy – Women’s Loggersports

• Ryan Clarke – Men's Volleyball and Men’s Soccer

Jack Barley Memorial Athlete of the Year: Presented to a male and female athlete who performed exceptional achievements within their sport while maintaining academic eligibility.

• Nicole Roy – Women's Loggersports

• Thomas Kitchen – Men's Loggersports

Rachel Spearing Award: Presented to a women’s rugby player who demonstrated heart, spirit, sportsmanship, and dedication on the field.

• Sara Petersen – Women's Rugby Sevens

Kris Starr and Adam Evans Awards: Presented to a loggersports athlete who shows heart, spirit, dedication, and love of the sport.

• Kris Starr Award: Sayre Hart – Loggersports

• Adam Evans Award: Jacob Ricker – Loggersports

All-Academic Award: Presented to the athlete with the highest academic average who achieved a balance in their sport and in academics.

• Sarah Porter – Women’s Loggersports

Fred Batley Coach of the Year Award: Presented to a coach driven by the passion they have for their sport, who goes above and beyond to create a positive atmosphere, and ensure their student-athletes have the best possible experience.

• Al Cavers – Loggersports

OCAA Academic and Athletic Excellence Award: Presented to OCAA athletes who achieve an honours GPA at their college, as well as receiving an OCAA honours award.

• Ashley Smith – Women's Rugby Sevens

Most Valuable Player Award: Recognized by their respective team for significant contribution to their team’s success.

• Ashley Smith – Women’s Rugby Sevens

• Emma Radley – Women’s Soccer

• Ryan Clarke – Men’s Soccer

• Mattea Miller-Evans - Women’s Loggersports

• Thomas Kitchen – Men’s Loggersports

• Owen Wisman – Men’s Basketball

• Samantha de Koning – Women’s Volleyball

• Calvin Dekok – Men’s Volleyball

Rookie of the Year Award: Recognized by their respective team for outstanding skills and positive integration with the team.

• Charlotte Murray – Women’s Rugby Sevens

• Claire Deschatelets – Women’s Soccer

• Aidan Sproule – Men’s Soccer

• Morgan Specht – Women’s Loggersports

• Lyndon Jarbeau – Men’s Loggersports

• Nathan Walters – Sundararajah – Men’s Basketball

• Guinevere Hallock – Women’s Volleyball

• Jordan Flynn – Men’s Volleyball

There were 30 student athletes were awarded for achieving an honours-level grade point average (GPA) while balancing the demands of varsity-level competition.

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Peterborough County Announces 2026 Community Recognition Award Winners

Peterborough County has announced the recipients of the 2026 Community Recognition Awards.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The winners will be honoured at a private County event next month.

The following are the award winners:

Accessibility Recognition

• Douro Dummer - PARD Therapeutic Riding School

Acts of Heroism

• North Kawartha – Eva Mallory and Pat Kempt

Agricultural Leadership

• Asphodel-Norwood – Stephanie Warner

• Douro-Dummer – Leor Farms

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Pat Learmonth

• Selwyn – Sanctuary Flower Field

Business Leadership

• Asphodel-Norwood – Papa’s Pizzaland – Tiffany Hickey

• Cavan Monaghan – Joshua Helm

• Douro-Dummer – Harrison Cedar Products

• Havelock Belmont-Methuen – Campbell’s Belmont Lake Marina

• North Kawartha – HERmanas Boutique

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – The Mane Intent

• Selwyn – Kawartha Home Hardware

• Trent Lakes - Kawartha County Wines

Community Volunteer of the Year

• Asphodel-Norwood – Hannah McLean

• Cavan Monaghan – Friendship Force

• Douro-Dummer – Debra Brown

• Havelock Belmont-Methuen – Orllyn Loney

• North Kawartha – Merle Post

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Otonabee-South Monaghan (OSM) Food Cupboard

• Selwyn – Lakefield Trail Stewardship Committee

• Trent Lakes – Diane Skinner

Environmental/Sustainability

• North Kawartha – Doug Colmer

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Friends of Hope Mill

Heritage Preservation

• Douro-Dummer – Douro 200th Committee

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Keene 200th Committee

• Selwyn – Hiawatha Chapel Association

• Trent Lakes – Trent Lakes Historical Society

Leadership in Arts and Culture

• Asphodel-Norwood – Kerstin Walsh

• North Kawartha – Molly Moldovan

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Tracy Minnema (A River of Yarn)

• Selwyn – David Goyette

Sporting Excellence

• Asphodel-Norwood – Marisha Thompson

• Cavan-Monaghan – Hannah Schad

• Douro-Dummer – Dustin Watson

• Havelock Belmont-Methuen – Cameron Spalding

Youth

• Asphodel-Norwood – Jorja Crawford

• Cavan-Monaghan – Bennet Hoar

• North Kawartha – Keegan Parks

• Otonabee-South Monaghan – Lily Briand

• Selwyn – Hazel Fuderer

Special Award

• County Wide – Nine Ships 1825 Inc.

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Fleming College Student Administrative Council Recognizes Student Leaders

Fleming College students celebrated some of the school’s top leaders at their annual awards ceremony held in the Steele Centre on April 9.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating these students who have been actively engaged in the Fleming community and the broader Peterborough community,” says Joel Willett, General Manager.

The Student Leaders are as follows:

Street Team Awards

Fletcher Boultbee, Janveet Singh, Logan Stacey, Peyton Kemp, Rashi Nandal, and Sophiya Thakuri

Awarded to student representatives who demonstrate exceptional involvement, engage their peers and bring campus life to the next level.

Student Administrative Council President’s Award (dedicated in honour of Bill Johnson): Janveet Singh

Selected by the SAC Board Chair and Board of Directors, this award is given to a student who exemplifies school spirit.

Iain Steele Leadership Award: Princy Rana

Awarded to a student who demonstrates great ambition, is innovative and has a high degree of moral standards and integrity.

Iain Steele Community Service Award: Jan Daryl Bautista

Awarded to a student who demonstrates a commitment to serving the community and has a high degree of integrity.

Renie Steele Award: Dee Brathwaite

Awarded to a student who displays citizenship, understanding and compassion towards fellow students.

Environmental Stewardship Award: Micheal Rodin

Given to a student who displays a responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.

Fleming SAC Advocacy Award: Shraddha

Given to a student who demonstrates advocacy and a strong passion for invoking change.

Student Experience Awards

Student Life Volunteer Award - Nabeelah Lookman

Through volunteer contributions, the recipient of this award has demonstrated initiative, leadership and commitment in support of Student Life programs and services.

Diversity & Inclusion Award- Bridget Amankwaa

The recipient of this award has contributed to building a welcoming campus that celebrates diversity, advances equity and fosters inclusion. They have made a direct contribution through leadership and engagement in student life.

Greg Riddle Award for Emerging Student Leader: Dorothy Joan Lavoie

Presented to a current full-time Fleming College student who successfully completed the Emerging Student Leaders program sponsored by Student Life. This student's actions enhanced individual and group experiences for fellow students during the program through understanding leadership, communication, team work and commitment.

International Student Services Leadership Award- Olivia Azar Martinez

Presented to a current full-time international student who, through their leadership and initiative, has assisted and supported the successful transition and integration into campus life for their fellow international students.

Indigenous Student Leadership Award- Timothy Stewart

This award is given to students who have demonstrated leadership by incorporating the Anishinaabe 7 Grandfather Teachings in their morals, values and interactions with the Fleming community, Indigenous student Community and beyond. Humility, Bravery, Honesty, Wisdom, Truth, Respect and Love are the 7 Grandfathers and are the foundation of many Indigenous ways of being. We, as Indigenous peoples choose to live by these principles in order to achieve balance; with ourselves, our community and the land.

Residence Awards

Team Play of the Year - Sutherland Residence Village: Olivia Azar Martinez

Team Player of the Year - Frost Residence Village: Isabelle Daley

This award recognizes a Residence Life Staff member who consistently demonstrates collaboration, reliability and a strong commitment to supporting their team. The recipient of this award goes above and beyond to foster a positive team environment, offers support to fellow staff members and contributes to the overall success of the Residence Life community. Through their willingness to step in when needed, share ideas and encourage others, they embody the spirit of teamwork that helps our residence community thrive.

Each year Fleming Student Administrative Council works with students to advocate for the enrichment of student life on and off campus. The Student Leadership Awards are an opportunity to recognize students who contribute positively to the overall student environment at Fleming. Awards are given as bursaries in varying monetary values and have been donated by key partners and long-time supporters of student success at Fleming College.

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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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