The Trent Community came together with inspiring generosity on April 9 to celebrate the fifth annual Trent Giving Day – a celebration of the founding of the Trent University Act and the institution’s history of being anchored in philanthropy. 

Thanks to generous support from alumni, supporters, faculty, staff, and community members, more than $552,000 was raised to empower student success. Additionally, 21 new and upgraded monthly donations to the Trent Fund will ensure reliable and stable student support for years to come, allowing students to focus on their studies and pursue their dreams. 

Among the many impactful Trent Giving Day contributions: 

• The new Giancarlo Fournasier Memorial Award is creating the largest scholarship to date for Trent University Durham GTA students. Created in memory of the longtime resident and successful business owner in the Durham Region, this award will increase accessibility and attract top scholars to Trent Durham.
• The Trent Central Student Association has committed funding to create three bursaries: one each for international students, domestic students, and “equity-deserving" students. 

“A heartfelt thank-you to our inspiring community that is helping ensure every student – no matter their situation – has the opportunity to thrive,” says Sherry Booth ’98, associate vice president Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “It’s wonderful to see our Trent Family come together to create opportunities for the next generation of leaders.” 

The Trent Fund supports on-campus employment, scholarships, leadership training, and student wellness programs, ensuring that every student, whether they are pursuing a career in research, sustainability, or community leadership, has the resources they need to succeed. 

Karen and Bill Morrison '86 (Champlain College) provided an inspiring matching opportunity for the first $5,000 in gifts to the Trent Fund. 

“Special thanks to Karen and Bill for sparking a wave of support that will have a lasting impact on our students,” AVP Booth says. “Together, we are truly turning possibility into something momentous.” 

Let’s keep the momentum going! Trent Giving Day may be over, but you can still support student success through the Trent Fund.