Trent University is pleased to announce that Dr. Robin Lathangue has been appointed to the new position of Head of Colleges effective August 19, 2008

As the inaugural Head of Colleges, Dr. Lathangue will be responsible for community development within an integrated college system. He will be charged with the implementation of academically-rich programs for students, faculty and staff that support and enhance engagement in the life of colleges at Trent and in academic interests and success. Dr. Lathangue’s primary responsibility will be as Principal of Champlain and Otonabee Colleges.

“We are excited to welcome someone of Robin's calibre into the Trent community. Robin brings the talent and credentials to enhance the quality of campus life for our students,” said Meri Kim Oliver, senior director of student affairs at Trent. “I am looking forward to the programs and initiatives that are sure to evolve under his leadership.”

Having grown up in Peterborough, Dr. Lathangue is familiar with Trent and the surrounding community. He completed a Bachelor of Arts and Science at McMaster University prior to serving as executive director of the Trent Valley Industry-Education Council in Peterborough. In 1990 he was awarded an M.A. from McMaster in Religious Studies. Dr. Lathangue also holds at Ph.D. in religious studies and political theory from Deakin University in Australia and completed a Certificate in University Management at the University of Manitoba.

Dr. Lathangue has seven years experience working in university administration and change management initiatives. He has served as director of professional programs within the Faculty of Extension at the University of Alberta, where he was responsible for overall academic leadership, management and administration of largest portfolio of programs in the Faculty, and is a former program director of community programs and information technology at the University of New Brunswick’s College of Extended Learning. He also has extensive teaching experience, most recently as an assistant professor of religious studies, contemporary studies and leadership at Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Lathangue also taught in Trent University’s Certificate Program in Leadership Development, offered through Continuing Education.

“Trent is an old and dear friend. It is a pleasure to anticipate working at Trent for a living,” Dr. Lathangue said. “I am particularly looking forward to enhanced interactions with faculty and students and working with them to discover new ways for the colleges to work.”