After an accomplished 33-year career at Trent University, including six years as the head of Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Joe Muldoon has announced his retirement on September 1, 2019. 

“Joe Muldoon has played a formative role in the development of Trent – first at our Peterborough campus and then in Durham,” remarked Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “His leadership in so many areas has been a key factor making Trent what it is today. In the last five years, his work on programming at Durham and his community involvement in the Region of Durham has positioned the campus for continued growth in both the short and long term. We all owe Joe heartfelt thanks for everything he has done for Trent.”

Mr. Muldoon was appointed head of Trent University Durham GTA in January 2013. Under his leadership over the last six years, the campus has grown from 900 to 1,400 students. His work was instrumental in developing several new Durham specific programs including Communications & Critical Thinking, Child & Youth Studies, Masters in Management, and Policing & Community Well-being. One of his major accomplishments has been increasing pathways for college students to both campuses and he has been an active participant in ONCAT. Over the last two years, Mr. Muldoon has worked on planning a new $35 million expansion with a 200-bed residence as well as increased academic and student space.

Speaking of his time at Trent and leadership at Trent Durham campus, Mr. Muldoon said, “I am deeply appreciative of all the opportunities Trent has provided me with over the years and feel remarkably fortunate to have spent the last six years in a leadership role at Trent Durham.”

Throughout his more than 30-year career with the University, Mr. Muldoon has held a number of administrative positions. His first position at Trent in 1986 was as the University’s first research officer, followed by coordinator of research and graduate studies, assistant to the dean of Arts & Science for ten years, special advisor to the provost (budget and labour relations) and director, Office of the Provost. During this time he was involved in eight rounds of bargaining with all bargaining units on campus including TUFA, CUPE#1, CUPE#2, and OPSEU.

Following his retirement, Mr. Muldoon will still be involved with Trent as he continues to coach the Men’s Varsity Curling team. Mr. Muldoon has coached several sports in the Peterborough community including hockey, youth soccer, competitive soccer, and curling.

Mr. Muldoon came to Trent University in 1986 from the University of Guelph. Previously, he was employed with the Ontario Corn Producers Association, a farm lobby group.

A public announcement of the new dean and head of Trent Durham GTA will be made on Monday, March 4, 2019.