The Patterson Legacy at Trent University

The Patterson Legacy at Trent University

David and Anne Patterson’s enduring commitment to Trent University spans several decades.

Dr. David G. Patterson ’66, ’14 (hon) is a proud Trent alumni who majored in Philosophy and Political Science. After graduating, David and Anne built successful careers in finance and consulting in Toronto, eventually founding Northwater Capital Management Inc. and its international group of companies.

Throughout their professional journey, the Pattersons remained deeply engaged with Trent, supporting students and academic excellence. In 2007, they established Trent’s first endowed chair, The Kenneth Mark Drain Chair in Ethics, in honour of a beloved uncle and lifelong Peterborough resident. In 2019, they created the Margaret Patterson Endowed Bursary Fund to support Teacher Education students at Trent’s Durham GTA campus, paying tribute to a cherished aunt.

In recognition of his leadership, Trent awarded David an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 2014.  

Over the years, David and Anne curated a remarkable collection of contemporary glass art, enhancing the spaces where they lived and worked. In 2019, they generously donated this collection - curated by Sandra Ainsley and Daniel Ainsley of the Sandra Ainsley Gallery in Toronto - to Trent University.