Trent University is celebrating a new addition to Trent’s rowing fleet: a brand-new single shell named Good Graces donated by the Wickerson Foundation. This support to the Momentous Campaign will help Trent student-athletes push boundaries, build resilience, and lead with strength on and off the water. 

Named in honour of Grace VandenBroek ’18 (Gzowski College), a standout varsity rower and national team athlete with Rowing Canada, Good Graces represents both excellence in sport and the power of community support. The shell’s name was chosen by current student-athletes, a meaningful gesture that reflects the respect and admiration they hold for Grace. 

The donation was made possible through the generosity of the Wickerson Foundation, whose founder Karen Wickerson ’87 (Champlain College) is committed to breaking down barriers to education.  

“I believe in removing barriers to education, and if rowing helps a student stay in school and thrive, then it’s worth supporting,” said Karen Wickerson during the naming ceremony. “It was important to me that the student-athletes had the opportunity to name the shell - this is their journey, and I’m proud to be part of it.” 

The shell and its name were revealed on the eve of the 54th Head of the Trent Regatta at an event to honour Chris Leach ‘70, one of the founders of the Trent University Rowing Club (TURC) and the Peterborough Rowing Club. Good Graces is a symbol of the generosity and ambition of the Trent community and the strength of Trent’s rowing legacy, which began long ago and continues to write new history today.  

“This gift from the Wickerson Foundation means a great deal to our student-athletes,” said Nathan McFadden, director of Athletics and Recreation at Trent University. “Not only does it provide access to high-performance equipment, but it also sends a powerful message that our community believes in them.” 

Learn more about the future of Trent rowing, and how to support Trent student-athletes.