Vice President, External Relations, Marketing & Communications

Trent was founded by a community determined to create a brighter future for the next generation. More than 60 years later, that spirit continues to shape who we are: a university defined by connection, curiosity, purpose, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.

Our founders built an extraordinary university. As Trent continues into its second half-century, we are building on that vision by strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, partners, and the communities we serve. These connections support learning, discovery, and action across the University.

It is through the engagement and generosity of Trent alumni, community members, and supporters that the University will continue to thrive. We invite you to connect with us and explore where our collaboration can take us. 

Julie Davis is Vice-President, External Relations, Marketing & Communications at Trent University, where she provides executive leadership for philanthropy, alumni engagement, community and Indigenous relations, institutional events, and strategic partnerships.

A dedicated and transformational leader, Julie has played a central role in strengthening Trent’s relationships with alumni, donors, community partners, rightsholders, and regional stakeholders. Her office has advanced major University priorities, including fundraising campaigns, global alumni engagement, sector-leading work with Indigenous communities, and creation of the Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan that includes the new long-term care home on Trent’s Symons campus, and the Gwepnandizamin land stewardship plan.

As Vice-President, External Relations, Marketing & Communications, Julie advances a transformational agenda to increase Trent’s local and global impact through forging collaborative partnerships, attracting investment in the University, strengthening our role as a community partner, and building an engaged community of supporters. Her team tells the story of Trent, showcasing student leadership, faculty and staff excellence, alumni success, donor impact, and community reciprocity.

Julie is a dedicated volunteer and community leader. She has recently completed a decade of service on the board for the Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education and the Five Counties Children’s Centre, serving as chair of both organizations; has participated on the campaign cabinet for the United Way, and was on the founding board of the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough. She holds a Masters in Leadership and speaks on a variety of topics including reconciliation and working with Indigenous peoples, building an inclusive workplace, and helping leaders cope with public scrutiny.