Trent University’s top honour, the Eminent Service Award, will be presented to John Breukelaar at convocation ceremonies in June 2012, as recommended by the Subcommittee on University Honours and approved by the Board of Governors on March 30, 2012.

John Breukelaar began his career at Trent University in 1975 as a laboratory demonstrator and was promoted to senior lab demonstrator in 1985.  In 1983, he received his Master of Science in Physics from Trent.  In the 35 years he was employed by the University he enriched the lives of thousands of students.  He has been a volunteer for the Peterborough Regional Science Fair since 1975 and organizer of extracurricular physics department events creating a sense of collegiality among physics students, staff and faculty. He was awarded the Distinguished Teaching Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance for 2006/07.

Excerpts from nomination letters read, “Mr. Breukelaar’s career with Trent represents a lifetime of contribution, and accomplishment beyond excellence.” “Thank you all these years for being the complete professional as our Senior Physics Demonstrator, mark advisor, counsellor and friend.  Thank you for your thoroughness, fairness of judgement, and patience.  Thank you for your deep understanding and sensitivity to our Trent culture and ways.”

Posted on Friday, April 13, 2012.