Champlain College
CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE
Tradition and a dynamic community are at Champlain's core, which embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery of the famous French explorer for whom it is named. Whether it is going out into the world to have new experiences, or delving into new ideas, our community is interested in a wide range of topics and opportunities. From ancient history to international perspectives, politics to active living, there is an ongoing discussion here about how people acting locally can make a difference on a broader global stage.
The architecture of Champlain College comes from legendary Canadian architect Ron Thom, and its buildings are renowned for their avante garde use of natural materials and traditional elements in modernist form. Walking through its winding paths and staircases, through the courtyards, or to the banks of the river you’ll feel how the architecture creates a feeling of community, takes inspiration from the natural environment, and provides a safe space for intellectual discovery, adventure, reflection and hearty engagement with a community of learners.
At the centre of the college is the impressive Great Hall, which serves as the college's gathering place for formal dinners and events, as well as a daily dining and study hall. Near the great hall is a Junior Common Room for student recreation and study; The Seasoned Spoon, an independent cooperatively run café serving healthy, organic, locally grown, affordable food; and the Champlain Living Learning Commons. The Commons is transformed regularly to serve a variety of purposes, including a formal and informal meeting space, an art gallery, a dining room, and the venue for regular college functions like co-curricular workshops and guest speakers. Both residence students and students living off-campus have access to all college facilities.
Within the residences are two special areas designated as "Living Learning Communities". These include the Trent Global Living Community, for students interested in developing their global citizenship; and the Active Living Community, for those with a spirit of adventure who want to live healthy and active lives.
While students in any academic program are welcome as members of the college, the departments of Ancient History & Classics, International Development Studies, and Political Studies are all housed within our walls.
Students at Champlain will be exposed to a plethora of events involving guest speakers and fellows in residence, and visitors. These guests are invited to speak to Trent students and remain on campus for a time, interacting with students to inspire intellectual exchange that supplements the academic life of this community of learning.
Feel like relaxing by the river with a good book? Champlain College offers several outdoor courtyards where students can enjoy the beauty of our natural location, play games, or watch Trent rowers on the Otonabee River.
Champlain classrooms, for both seminars and lectures, are located throughout the college, mixed in with faculty and department offices. Moreover, the Trent International Program, and the Careers Centre both find their home in Champlain; along with student run organizations like B!KE@Trent, the Trent Central Student Association, Walkhome, and Trent Students for Literacy.