The Trent University community proudly celebrates its commitment to the humanities and critical thinking with the announcement of the Kenneth Mark Drain Chair in Ethics, the first Endowed Chair in the University’s history. Valued at $2 million, it is the largest gift given to Trent by living donors.

“This pace-setting philanthropic gift from our alumni and close friends signifies the launch of a new era for our University,” says Trent President Bonnie Patterson. “It will enable Trent to build upon our national and international reputation as a leader in liberal arts and sciences education. It brings life to our Vision Statement to create a learning environment where students think critically, are socially conscious and are prepared to make a difference in society.”

The generous $2 million gift is given to the University by members of the Patterson and Drain families as a tribute to the life of Kenneth Mark Drain. Born on December 27, 1923, Mr. Drain is described as “a quintessential son of Peterborough,” having lived and worked in Peterborough County all his life. Ken Drain passed away on September 10, 2007 in Peterborough, but knew of his family’s intention to honour him through the creation of the Kenneth Mark Drain Chair in Ethics.

David Patterson (’66), the representative for the Patterson and Drain families, credits the Trent Experience as one of the reasons why the family has made this significant contribution.

“Thirteen members of our extended family have either graduated from Trent University or have taken courses at Trent and completed their degree elsewhere,” says Mr. Patterson. “We are impressed with Trent’s leadership and its bold plans leading up to its 50th anniversary, and hope our gift will inspire other alumni and community leaders to step up to the plate.”

As the University’s first Endowed Chair, the Kenneth Mark Drain Chair in Ethics will create a prestigious faculty position within Trent’s Department of Philosophy for a national or international leader in the ever-growing field of ethics. To fill the position, Trent University will seek a scholar of the highest calibre who will explore ethics from multiple perspectives through his or her leadership in teaching, research and community life. As an endowed fund, the Kenneth Mark Drain Chair in Ethics will exist at Trent in perpetuity, ensuring that the University is able to attract and retain the finest faculty for years to come.

For more information, visit the Chair in Ethics web site.

Posted on Wednesday, October 3, 2007.