“My research and public interests were fired up in the hot-house intellectual and political environment of Trent in the early 70s. I had extensive and intensive opportunities to cut my administrative teeth at Trent in the 80s and 90s and I will be forever grateful. In no small measure, then, this Order of Canada recognition is Trent's doing.”

These are the words of Dr. Robert Campbell ’70, a graduate of Trent’s Political Studies program, who was recently presented with one of the country’s highest civilian honours as he was named a member of the Order of Canada.

When the 69 recipients were announced on December 30, Dr. Campbell wasn’t the only Trent alumni to be recognized. Fiona Sampson ’87, a human rights lawyer who completed her master’s degree at Trent, was also awarded the honour.

“The Trent community is thrilled to congratulate Robert and Fiona, two outstanding alumni, for being recognized with Canada’s highest honour,” said Lee Hays, director of Alumni Affairs at Trent. “Their outstanding leadership and important contributions to Canada and communities around the world are inspiring examples of the success of our graduates.” 

After graduating from Trent and completing his Masters and PhD degrees, Dr. Campbell ’70 returned to his alma mater to kick-off his academic career, first as professor of politics from 1976 to 1993, then dean of arts and science from 1994 to 1996 as well as vice-president of Academic from 1996 to 1997. He was also founder of the Trent International Program with Jack Matthews. During his time working at Trent, he was awarded the Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching for his "dedication as a facilitator, his dedication to helping students understand, his dedication to the student population of Trent University; for his patience and sincerity, for his enthusiasm; for being a committed and dedicated teacher born to and living his trade.” Currently, Dr. Campbell is president and vice-chancellor of Mount Allison University. He was presented the Order of Canada “for his contributions to academia as an authority on postal services and as president of Mount Allison University.”

Ms. Sampson ’87 completed her master’s at Trent in Canadian Heritage and Development. Ms. Sampson is the CEO of the Equality Effect, an international network of human rights advocates working collaboratively to improve the lives of women and girls. She was presented the Order of Canada “for her commitment to human rights, particularly those of women and girls in Africa.”

“I feel very fortunate that I get do such rewarding work that never feels like work,” said Ms. Sampson. “Receiving the Order of Canada for the human rights work I do feels like icing on the cake, and it’s pretty delicious!”