Trent’s alumni chancellor Dr. Stephen Stohn ‘66 has been named a member of the prestigious Order of Canada in recognition of his long-time contributions to the Canadian entertainment industry, notably as a television producer, lawyer, mentor and advocate for artists. 

"On behalf of the entire Trent community, I share heartfelt congratulations to Chancellor Stephen Stohn on his appointment to the Order of Canada,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. "Chancellor Stohn exemplifies Trent’s spirit of creativity, innovation, and philanthropy. His unwavering commitment to Trent has enriched our campuses and contributed greatly to the transformative Trent experience. This latest accolade in an illustrious career demonstrates the remarkable impact he has had on Canada’s entertainment industry and all of us here at Trent.” 

An esteemed entertainment lawyer, award-winning producer, songwriter and author, Dr. Stohn graduated from Trent University in 1969 with Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Economics. A 14-time Canadian Screen Award (formerly the Gemini Award) winner, Dr. Stohn is well known as the executive producer of various iterations of the Degrassi television franchise and for his role as executive producer of The Juno Awards for close to 20 years. As an attorney, he has represented some of the most talented and successful artists Canada has produced in the last 30-plus years, helping to guide their careers to international success. 

Expressing gratitude for the Order of Canada recognition, Dr. Stohn shared: "I know it’s traditional to feel humbled by a special honour like this, but actually this is all about the hundreds of colleagues, friends, and partners I’ve worked with over all these years on so many wonderful projects. I really just actually think it’s amazingly cool." 

Dr. Stohn was appointed Trent’s 12th chancellor – and second alumni chancellor – in 2019 and reappointed for a second, three-year term in 2021. In 2015, he was awarded an honorary degree from Trent – the University’s highest honour. In recognition of his transformational philanthropic support for Trent, Stohn Hall in the Student Centre is named in his honour.