Lawyer and alumna Ann Farquharson ‘76 was honoured with the prestigious Trent University Alumni Spirit of Trent Award at a special President’s Alumni Luncheon on May 9. An outstanding member of the Trent community, Ms. Farquharson was recognized for her continued dedication to both Peterborough and the University.

Ms. Farquharson served a four-year term as Peterborough City Councilor from 2007 to 2010, and sat on the Board of Peterborough’s Downtown Business Improvement Area. She has also contributed extensively to a host of organizations, including the Festival of Lights, Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Peterborough, Five Counties Children’s Centre, Peterborough Rotary Club, the Peterborough Law Association, and more than 25 others.

Ms. Farquharson continues to make an impact on the Trent community as well. She was Trent’s Human Rights lawyer for several years, providing legal advice on the rights and obligations of stakeholders and assisting in dispute resolutions and advanced solutions. In addition to the time she dedicates to mentoring young students, she liaises with the Advancement Office to inspire philanthropy within the Trent and Peterborough communities. She is also a philanthropist herself, having established a bursary in her late father’s name: The Gordon Henry Taylor Farquharson Bursary.

“Each year the Trent University Alumni Association receives nominations for alumni that have made exemplary contributions through their work, volunteerism and overall leadership,” said Lee Hays ’91, director of Trent University Alumni Affairs. “Awards for distinguished alumni, young leader, and spirit of Trent are then presented at various events at Trent and in the communities where alumni live. As a lifelong resident of Peterborough, Ann has contributed in numerous ways to the development, both professionally and philanthropically, of Trent University, Peterborough, and its people.  We are thrilled to recognize Ann for continuing to shine the spirit of Trent in this community and to let her know we are proud of her.”