Trent University is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Karen Spearing as the new University secretary, effective March 24, 2016.

The University secretary is the University’s most senior advisor on governance-related and administrative matters. The position is also responsible for providing leadership and expertise, supporting both of Trent’s governing bodies, the Senate and the Board of Governors.

“Ms. Spearing brings a great deal of experience and an in-depth understanding of governance to her new role as university secretary,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “She is highly respected by everyone who has worked with her and is sure to make an important contribution to the intricacies of governance that characterize every university. I feel lucky to have her in the role of University Secretary.”

Ms. Spearing joined Trent University in 2010 as executive assistant to the President. Over the past four years, she has also served as interim secretary to Senate, as well as associate University secretary (Board of Governors), followed by her recent interim appointment as University secretary. 

“I’m delighted to see Karen take on the role of University secretary at a pivotal point for the University and the Board of Governors,” said Bryan Davies, chair of the Board of Governors. ” The Board, its committees and senior administration alike will benefit from Karen’s appreciation of the complexities of governance.”

Upon accepting the appointment, Ms. Spearing said: “I am deeply honored to be appointed as University secretary and secretary to the Board of Governors.  I am delighted to have the opportunity to continue to work with highly supportive and engaged Board members and senior leadership team at such an important time in Trent’s history.” 

Prior to Trent, Ms. Spearing served as university secretary at University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) for four years, and for three of those years, also served as secretary to the Board of Governors of Durham College in a shared service capacity. Previously, Ms. Spearing also worked as senior assistant to the chief of Police at the Toronto Police Service and board administrator to the York Regional Police Services Board.