Trent University Statistician Receives Two National Awards for Teaching Excellence

Dr. Wesley Burr, associate professor and chair of Mathematics & Statistics at Trent University, is the recipient of two national honours for teaching excellence, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Burr received the Statistics Society of Canada’s (SSC) 2026 Early Career Educator Award and the Canadian Mathematical Society’s (CMS) 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award. 

“Stemming from his ability to combine expertise with enthusiasm and curiosity, Dr. Burr’s work is transforming the experience of learning math and stats for countless learners,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Some students are intimidated by mathematics, and Wesley is effectively changing that experience. He is helping students build confidence and competence in their learning journey of statistics. These national honours recognize Dr. Burr’s commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.” 

“Mathematics and statistics are fundamental for life and learning, particularly in the sciences, but like a language, you have to practice and speak it regularly to gain fluency. All it takes for kids to believe they can't do math is one bad year, so people close that door too early and shut themselves off from some really interesting possibilities,” explained Burr. “Like a story, courses in math and stats should take students on a journey. Students start somewhere, arrive somewhere else, and along the way they’re connecting ideas, reinforcing concepts and growing.”

Since joining Trent in 2016, Prof. Burr has taught 19 different courses, some as many as 13 times. 

This month, Burr will formally receive the CMS Excellence in Teaching Award at the 2026 CMS Summer Meeting in Saint John, N.B. and the SSC Early Career Educator Award at the 2026 SSC Annual Meeting in Hamilton.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trent University to Undertake Major Rehabilitation For Faryon Bridge With Philanthropic Support

Trent University’s Faryon Bridge rehabilitation and renewal project is underway after more than six million dollars in donations were raised, announced on Thursday afternoon.

The Fayon bridge is widely regarded as one of the defining works within Canadian architect Ron Thom’s master plan for the University, brought to life by architect Paul Merrick and structural engineer Morden Yolles. File Photo.

The project is to preserve its structural integrity, support safe daily use, and protect its defining architectural features for future generations.

“The Faryon Bridge is central to the identity of Trent’s Symons Campus, and this rehabilitation project will help preserve both its architectural significance and role in everyday campus life well into the future,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Development. “We are incredibly thankful for the support this project has already received.”

The Faryon Bridge serves as the main connection between the east and west banks of the campus. According to the University, it supports thousands of daily crossings while carrying critical power and telecommunications infrastructure across the Otonabee River. Independent engineering assessments confirmed the need for significant rehabilitation work to maintain the bridge’s structural integrity and long-term reliability.

It opened in 1968 as part of the original vision for Trent. Its design has earned national recognition, including a merit citation from the Design Canada Concrete Awards in 1971.

The Faryon Bridge has been part of generations of Trent’s growth, from convocation and Head of the Trent to student chalking, postering and public expression. Several love stories, bearing witness to first kisses, engagements and wedding photos have occurred on the bridge.

That connection inspired Doug Kirk, chair of Trent’s Board of Governors, and his partner, Mary, to kickstart the fundraising campaign for the Faryon Bridge rehabilitation with a $1-million gift.

“The Faryon Bridge is tremendously important to the Symons Campus and to the Trent community,” said Kirk. “We made this gift to help ensure the bridge is restored fully and part of a defining Trent experience for the next generations of students. We encourage others to dig deep and help support this meaningful project.”

Work on the bridge began in February and will continue over multiple construction seasons. The project includes renewing the deck and balustrades, restoring the beams and arches that support the structure and strengthening the piers and foundations. Environmental stewardship will guide each phase of the work to protect the Otonabee River and surrounding habitat, and heritage stewardship will preserve its original design and visual presence on campus.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trustee Seat Vacancy at PVNC Catholic School Board

The seat formerly held by Clarington Trustee Joshua Glover at the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board has been declared vacant, effective immediately.

Photo courtesy of PVNC.

Under the Education Act, a trustee’s seat becomes vacant if they are absent from three consecutive regular meetings of the Board without being authorized by a board resolution entered into the minutes.

Ontario Regulation 463/97 mandates that trustees be physically present at regular Board and Committee of the Whole meetings, unless formal written approval for electronic participation has been granted in accordance with provincial regulations.

Since the vacancy occurred after April 1 in a municipal election year, the Education Act requires that the seat remain vacant until the next municipal election on Oct. 26.

According to PVNC, the Municipality of Clarington is allocated two trustee seats on the Board; Clarington Catholic schools and families will continue to be represented during this interim period.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

New Vice-President and Head of Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area Appointed

Trent University has appointed Glenn Craney as vice-president and head of Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area, effective July 1. 

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Glenn brings deep experience across Ontario’s postsecondary system, paired with a strong understanding of government, planning, and community engagement,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor. “As Trent Durham continues to grow and evolve, Glenn’s leadership will support our commitment to students, our relationships in the region, and Trent’s vision as a dual-campus university.” 

“I am honoured to be joining Trent University at an important moment for Trent Durham,” said Craney. “Trent has built something truly distinctive in Durham, rooted in community and an exemplary experience for a diverse range of students. I look forward to working with faculty, staff, students, and partners to support the campus’s continued growth and development.” 

With over 25 years in leadership roles, Craney most recently served as vice-president, Planning & Strategy at Humber Polytechnic, where he led institutional planning, enrolment management, facilities development and operations across multiple campuses. 

Prior to Humber, Craney served as deputy provost and chief strategy officer at Toronto Metropolitan University. In this role, he led the development of TMU’s Brampton strategy, which resulted in the creation of the first new medical school in the Greater Toronto Area in more than a century and included negotiating a landmark multimillion-dollar municipal contribution. He also played a key role in implementing TMU’s inaugural international strategy, which led to a significant increase in international enrolment and the development of transnational campuses across three continents. 

Earlier in his career, Craney served as assistant deputy minister with Ontario’s Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development, contributing to postsecondary policy and system-level planning across the province. Prior to this, he served as the founding executive director of the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT), where he established and led the new provincial agency, facilitating student mobility across Ontario’s 45 publicly-funded universities, colleges and Indigenous Institutes. Craney completed undergraduate and graduate studies in economics at Western University and the University of Toronto, respectively. 

This appointment follows the completion of Dr. Scott Henderson’s interim role as vice-president and head of Trent University Durham since 2024, after having served as dean and head of Trent Durham for five years. Henderson continues as a faculty member at Trent University.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

PVNC Catholic Mathletes Crunch Numbers For Success At Annual Math Olympics

From high-speed multiplication to complex logic puzzles, students were crunching numbers at the annual PVNC Catholic Math Olympics at Holy Cross Secondary School on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNC Catholic.

The event was hosted by the PVNC Catholic Math Team, with over 200 students from 22 schools competing.

The Mathletes took a variety of challenges that included the following:

• The Skills Challenge: A gauntlet of puzzles designed to push critical thinking to the limit.

• Probability & Strategy: Fast-paced dice games where Mathletes calculated risks in real-time.

• Number Hive: A buzzing multiplication challenge that rewarded speed and precision.

• Spatial Reasoning: The legendary estimation jar, where students used their best formulas to guess the coin count.

The results of the competition are as follows:

Grade 3/4

• 1st Place: St. Alphonsus CES, Peterborough

• 2nd Place: St. Paul CES, Peterborough

• 3rd Place: St. Mary CES, Campbellford

Grade 5/6

• 1st Place: St. Anthony CES, Port Hope

• 2nd Place: St. Dominic CES, Lindsay

• 3rd Place: St. Anne CES, Peterborough

Grade 7/8

• 1st Place: St. Anne CES, Peterborough

• 2nd Place: St. Joseph CES, Douro

• 3rd Place: St. Martin CES, Ennismore

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trent Giving Day Raises Over $2.6M in Support of Student Opportunities

The Trent University community raised more than $121,000 during the 2026 Trent Giving Day, bringing Giving Day contributions over $2.6 million in support of students over the past six years.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Thank you to the Trent community for your generosity that strengthens our student supports and reflects our shared commitment to their future and the momentous impact they will have on the world,” said Sandy Marett, Trent associate vice president of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement.

Launched in 2021, Trent Giving Day is a 24-hour campaign that supports students where it matters most, including on-campus employment, experiential learning, wellness initiatives, scholarships, and enhancements to collegiate and campus spaces.

This year’s campaign saw major support from alumna Joanne Dereta, who increased her matching gift to $18,000.

“Seeing the level of engagement and participation on Trent Giving Day to support Trent students encouraged me to increase my match and gift to the Trent Fund so that even more students can access opportunities and support,” said Dereta.

Trent Giving Day also highlighted the Trent Fund, the University’s most flexible source of support, helping address students’ most pressing needs, including financial assistance, on-campus employment, experiential learning opportunities, and wellness supports.

Tabytha Wells benefited from the Trent Fund by securing on-campus employment that aligned with her research interests in Aging. Wells worked with the Trent Centre for Aging & Society and gained invaluable experience launching an intergenerational classroom model that fosters connection between Trent students and older adults.

“My work with TCAS was the ultimate launchpad,” she said. “It gave me the professional velocity to transition from a student to a researcher, providing the skills to ensure that academic work actively makes life more accessible and equitable for our neighbours.” 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trent University Chinese Program of Languages and Linguistics On Display at Its 25th Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition

The Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition for Foreign University Students was successfully at Trent University on Saturday.

Dr. Shaoling Wang (left) and third-place winner Antonella Batchi (right). Batachi competed and placed in the top three despite having studied only one semester of Chinese. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The event was organized by the Chinese Program of Languages and Linguistics (L&L) and sponsored by the Centre for Language Education and Cooperation in China, as well as the Education Division of the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto.

This year’s competition was especially significant as it marked the 25th anniversary of the globally recognized event. The theme, ‘One World, One Family,’ which emphasized cross-cultural understanding and global connection.

The competition consisted of two parts: a speech and a cultural talent performance. According to a press release, participants demonstrated not only linguistic ability but also creativity and cultural appreciation through performances tied to Chinese traditions. The event also featured special guest performances, including a Comic Cross Talk presentation by Mr. Qining Wang and Heliang Yu of the Toronto Happy Laughing Association, and a traditional dance by students from Queen’s University, adding further cultural richness and audience engagement to the program.

Dr. Shaoling Wang from Trent’s Chinese Program of L&L has long been involved in the event, serving both as an adjudicator and as a dedicated mentor preparing students for participation. In earlier years, Trent University had limited recognition and support for the event, with most funding directed toward larger institutions. Through continued effort and advocacy, Dr. Wang successfully secured funding this year, enabling Trent’s Chinese Program to host the competition—an important milestone for the university.

Students trained by Dr. Wang have achieved notable success in past competitions, earning first-, second- and third-place prizes. This year, two of her students, Antonella Batchi and Magali Nichol, participated in the contest.

Although Magali Nichol was unable to compete in person due to a recent move, she submitted pre-recorded entries for both components of the competition. Her talent performance featured a traditional Chinese folk song played on the piano, demonstrating both musical skill and cultural appreciation.

Antonella Batchi earned third prize, despite that she had studied Chinese for only one semester. Batachi recited a poem by a Tang Dynasty poet reflecting on enduring friendship despite distance, aligning with the competition theme.

The competition brought together participants from multiple institutions, including Trent University, the University of Toronto (Scarborough, St. George, and Mississauga campuses), and Toronto Metropolitan University. The first and 2 second prize winners came from the University of Toronto Scarborough campus and Mississauga campus, and they are Thuy Nguyen, Brendan Webster and Harshita Nagireddy, respectively, while the remaining two third prize winners (a total of three) are Alon Averbouch and Bobbi Rimrott, represented the University of Toronto St. George campus and Toronto Metropolitan University. The remaining contestants also contributed to the strong level of competition. The MC of the event was last year’s first prize winner of the competition, Elizabeth Schunner, who graduated from the University of Waterloo. She used both Chinese and English to connect the contestants and the audience.

To make the competition more transparent and fair, the organizing committee invited adjudicators experienced in Chinese language teaching outside the university system. They are: Mr. Tian Yang from the International Language, Peel District School Board; Ms. Yuanzhi Cai from the International Language, Toronto District School Board; Ms. Ling Yu, retired from Havergal College; Ms. Jinghua Li from Hong He Chinese School, Waterloo and Ms. Jingming Li from Upper Canada College.

Distinguished guests in attendance included Trent University’s Associate Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences and Languages and Linguistics Coordinator, Dr. Martin Boyne; Counselor Meng Zhang and Consul Ying Wang of the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto – Education Division; and Allie Bonner from the office of Peterborough MP Emma Harrison. They delivered opening and closing remarks, recognizing the importance of the event and celebrating participants' achievements.

As Dr. Shaoling Wang noted, events such as the Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition not only promote awareness of the Chinese language and culture and highlight the host institution, but also, most importantly, provide valuable opportunities for student volunteers to develop teamwork and organizational skills.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Three Students Off to Compete In Edmonton After Placing As Top Three Entries At Peterborough Regional Science Fair

Claire Sehn, Ella Sehn and Isaiah Jalsevac are headed to Edmonton to compete in the Canada-Wide Science Fair after placing in the top three as the grand prize winners at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair at Trent University on Wednesday.

Third-Place finisher Ella Sehn (left); Winner Claire Sehn (middle) and runner-up Isaiah Jalsevac (right) are all headed to Edmonton after thEir top-three finish at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair. tHE TRIO WERE ALSO TOP THREE IN LAST YEAR’S EVENT. Photo courtesy of Peterborough Regional Science Fair.

Students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 competed in several different divisions and categories, showcasing their projects.

The following were the top three grand prize projects:

A Novel, Biodegradable Treatment to Limit Drought and Wildfire Disaster and Retain Soil Nutrients by Claire Sehn of Lakefield College School (first place)

Our planet is facing serious environmental crises: global warming is causing wildfires, drought is decimating agricultural yields, and waning soil fertility is hindering crop growth. Current approaches to address these issues are generally singular in focus and limited in efficacy.

A biodegradable treatment capable of retaining moisture, limiting combustion, and sustaining nutrients could address these environmental challenges simultaneously. A novel treatment was engineered, consisting of hydrogels created from pineapple peel, pine needles or corn husk; calcium carbonate from milled mussel shells; and engineered wheat-based biochar. Four treatment groups, including a control, were applied to 20 soil samples and the moisture percentage was measured daily for five days.

Treatments were applied to 40 wood samples and were subjected to combustion tests. Four different combustion studies were measured. Trials involving mussel shells and biochar or the combination were brought to equilibrium in a 10 parts per million fertilizer: water solution and the nutrient adsorption percentage was measured using ion chromatography. The triple combination treatment demonstrated the ability to mitigate the effects of wildfire and drought by improving water retention (p<0.05) and limiting fire combustion (p<0.05) using standardized tests. The treatment was also effective in adsorbing phosphate and nitrate, thereby improving soil health. BET surface area analysis demonstrated that the engineered biochar had a surface area of 2 m^2/g. Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectrometry validated the structural characteristics of the engineered biochar and compost-based hydrogels. This study demonstrates the efficacy of manufacturing compost-based environmental protection treatments from materials readily available in Canada.

Firebird: Autonomous UAV Detection and Monitoring of Wildfires by Isaiah Jalsevac of Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic School (runner-up)

Wildfires are an increasing concern as climate change decreases precipitation, causes earlier snow melt, and increases the likelihood of fires. They can cause undue harm to wildlife if left unchecked, cause people to have to evacuate, and cause vast smoke clouds to cover huge tracts of land. Also, wildfires are a huge factor in greenhouse gas emissions, releasing massive amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere.

In 2023, more CO2 was released into the atmosphere from wildfires than from all other sources in Canada combined. Early detection is the most effective method for limiting wildfire damage - a small fire is easy to put out, a raging fire that has been burning for days is not. This project seeks to address gaps in the current detection methods by creating a long-range, autonomous UAV capable of flying for hundreds of kilometres and detecting wildfires from their thermal signatures.

This project focuses on three main areas: iterative simulations to design the optimal airframe for a long-range UAV, designed specifically for detecting wildfires; different detection algorithms and their accuracy at detecting wildfires; and different approaches to optimally deploy these UAVs and maximize detection coverage.

Removal of Aquatic Microbial Biocontaminants with Ozonide: An Assessment of Apoptosis in Wildtype and CRISPR-Cas9 iPT Homozygous Knockout Cell Lines by Ella Sehn of Lakefield College School (third place)

Microbial blooms biocontaminate the drinking-water sources relied on by over 100 million people worldwide. The removal of these water biocontaminants could substantially improve global health. Recent microbial studies have identified an indirect connection between the gene iPT and cell stress tolerance but its role in regulating cell survival remains incompletely understood.

Ozonide is a chemical capable of lysing cell membranes through depolymerization. The objectives of this research were twofold: first, to determine the functional implications of iPT in regulating cell survival, and second, to determine the capacity of ozonide to induce apoptosis (cell death) in microbial cells. iPT was deleted from the Euglena Gracilis genome using CRISPR-Cas9 to generate a line of homozygous iPT-knockout cells (-/-). Apoptosis was assessed in these knockouts in comparison to wildtype cells (+/+).

Second, the capacity of ozonide to induce apoptosis in both cell lines was assessed by its application in concentrations of 10, 100 and 1000 µg/mL. To quantify apoptosis, four assays were employed: DNA and RNA electrophoresis, cell viability and RT-qPCR for Metacaspase gene expression. The -/- cells showed far lower viability and higher expression of the Metacaspase genes. Further, the application of ozonide resulted in a substantial increase in apoptosis, as shown by hallmark ladder-patterns in the DNA and RNA electrophoresis, low cell viability and upregulation of the Metacaspase genes.

Statistical analyses are currently ongoing. These results revealed a novel function of iPT in regulating cell survival. Additionally, ozonide was identified as a novel treatment for microbial blooms with potential to benefit global health.

@ptbo_canada Claire Sehn, Ella Sehn and Isaiah Jalsevac are headed to Edmonton to compete in the Canada-Wide Science Fair after placing in the top three as the grand prize winners at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #sciencefair ♬ Science - ZydSounds

The top three are representing the Peterborough region at the Canada-Wide Science Fair in Edmonton from May 23 to 30.

A full list of winners can be found online.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Fleming College and St. Lawrence College Announce Merger

To ‘create a stronger institution with greater scale, broader access for students to programs and services and improved long-term financial sustainability,’ Fleming College and St. Lawrence College have announced a merger on Friday.

File Photo.

According to Fleming, this is a significant step toward building a larger, more capable institution that can expand access and strengthen long-term sustainability. As a result of the integration, the merger will create greater scale and capability and better align programs and capacity with regional labour market needs. This will allow students to benefit from expanded academic pathways, increased access to specialized programs, enhanced research opportunities and broader work-integrated learning experiences, stated Theresa Knott, Fleming interim president.

“This integration represents a forward-looking investment in our students and communities,” she said. “By bringing our strengths together, we are positioning ourselves to deliver more opportunities, more innovation, greater access, and a stronger foundation for the future across our combined regions and campuses.”

Both colleges have been working closely with the Ontario Government to ensure a smooth integration with minimum impacts on students and communities. Both Colleges assure that there are no planned changes to local brands, programs, campuses, services or student supports from this announcement.

“We are committed to ensuring that students have the tools, programs, and support they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy,” said Glenn Vollebregt, St. Lawrence College president and CEO. “This integration gives us the scale and capability to serve more students, offer more opportunity, and build a stronger institution for the long term.”

The boards of both Fleming College and St. Lawrence College have approved an integration framework agreement that outlines the steps toward full integration.

“As governors, our responsibility is to help ensure our institutions remain strong, relevant and sustainable for the students and each of the communities we serve,” said Don Gillespie, Fleming Board Chair. “This integration process reflects a thoughtful, long-term approach to building greater capacity, expanding opportunities, and protecting the strength of college education across our region.”

“This is an important step toward creating a stronger future for students, employers and communities across eastern Ontario,” said Julie Caffin, St. Lawrence College Chair of the Board of Governors. “By bringing together the complementary strengths of our two institutions, we have an opportunity to build a more resilient college that can respond to changing needs while preserving our commitment to student success and community impact.”

The new college will have a single management team. Vollebregt will serve as the initial President and CEO and Knott will serve as the initial Associate President and Chief Academic Officer of the New College.

Both colleges have stated that the integration will proceed through the next phase of implementation, which includes detailed due diligence, operational planning, and community engagement. These steps will be undertaken under board oversight and in line with provincial requirements, with further updates to be shared as more information becomes available.

Fleming College has campuses in Peterborough, Lindsay, Haliburton and Cobourg. St. Lawrence College operates in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.