Trent University Durham GTA celebrated a major milestone as students moved into the brand-new residence building—their home away from home for the next year. The new residence offers exceptional living and learning spaces for students studying at GTA campus.

To mark the occasion, President Leo Groarke, Marilyn Burns, vice-president of Communications & Enrolment, and Dr. Scott Henderson, dean and head of Trent Durham personally welcomed new students with Trent-branded gifts as they settled in.

Campus abuzz with excitement for a new year

A sense of renewed energy on campus was shared by students, parents and staff alike. President Groarke toured the new residence, engaging with students along the way as he explored the grounds, new lecture hall and classroom spaces. The first student he met, Samantha, was particularly enthused about meeting the president on move-in day.

“Everyone was super friendly and really helpful. It made me a lot more comfortable. I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone and figuring out how to best take advantage of the opportunities here,” said the first-year Law and Arts student.

Residence dons were on also hand to offer support to new residents. Their main goal for move-in day was to get to know more about the incoming students and their chosen academic programs.

“My favourite part of the day was getting to speak with residents about their program of study. The passion they all have for their individual area of study was evident, as was their excitement to be in-person on campus this year,” shared Sam Edgar, residence life coordinator for the Durham campus. “It was heartwarming to hear from individuals that their move-in experience, as well as the new residence building, exceeded their expectations.”

A journey for the Durham campus

Sixteen months since the official groundbreaking, the new residence and academic building now stands as a complement to the surrounding neighbourhood with many architectural details, including copper cladding—which will oxidize into a distinguished green over the coming decades. The existing campus building also underwent extensive renovations over the summer and now houses a new eatery, Indigenous student space, prayer and meditation room, quiet study area and renovated student lounge.

“No matter what campus you are on at Trent, the energy is always amazing on move-in day,” said Shaun McCracken, assistant director of Residence Operations. “With that said, there is something about being able to welcome students to a brand new building that has been a true labour of love for so many.” 

Continued Growth at Trent Durham GTA

Trent Durham has experienced exponential growth in the past five years in student population, physical expansion and academic program development, and is proud to be welcoming one of the largest student cohorts in recent history.

“I wanted to come here because it was not the typical crowded university experience. I’m excited about school, the work and how tight knit the classes are going to be, and how interesting the professors already seem. My excitement is going through the roof!” exclaimed Marion, a first-year Media Studies student.

Interested in the new Trent University Durham GTA residence? We are still welcoming new and returning students that want to call this campus home. Learn more about submitting your residence and housing application at Trent.