These are busy times for Trent’s internationalization efforts, which continue to build the University’s reputation through research and teaching partnerships, international recruitment efforts, and exchanges that connect Trent to the United Kingdom, Vietnam, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, Africa, and Spain and Italy in Europe.

Back from a recent trip to the Middle East, Glennice Burns, Trent’s associate vice-president International, notes that “internationalization amplifies the Trent identity worldwide. We travel internationally to explore and establish research connections, program synergies, and faculty exchanges with other universities. In our meetings with high schools, prospective students and their representatives, we discuss the ways in which they may join the Trent community in the pursuit of one of our many degrees or certificates.”

In February, the chair of Trent University’s Board of Governors, Debra Cooper Burger, Trent chancellor Stephen Stohn ‘66, and dean of Science Dr. Holger Hintelmann visited Swansea University in Wales, where Trent has a strong and growing partnership that provides students with seamless pathways to careers in law and medicine. The delegation held events for Trent students attending Swansea, explored new agreements, gave lectures, and hosted an event for Trent alumni in London.

“The enthusiasm we encounter for Trent internationally is exhilarating,” says Debra-Burger Cooper, chair of the Trent Board. “Our reputation as both a research-intensive and student-centred institution goes far and wide. Diversifying Trent’s connections and internationalizing our campuses makes us stronger, more diverse, and more sustainable. At the same time we bring innovation, immigration and graduates equipped with the skills to contribute to Ontario’s growing economy.”

Concurrent with the UK excursion, Trent delegations were present in Africa, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Spain as well as the Middle East. Trent President Leo Groarke led a delegation to Dubai, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain that included vice presidents Tariq Al-idrissi and Marilyn Burns. They met with government officials, university partners, high schools, and student representatives as well as applicants and their families. At the same time, Cath D’Amico, director of Trent International, and Dr. David Firang, associate professor of Social Work, visited Ghana and West Africa. Their trip included sessions with Trent exchange students at Cape Coast University and information sessions for applicants for fall 2023.

Dr. Cathy Bruce, vice president Research & Innovation, has visited Spain to pursue research and partnership possibilities. She and a group of faculty have been following up on a fall trip to Trento University, where Dr. Groarke delivered lectures in the law school. Later in the winter term of 2023, the President will visit with the University of Edinburgh and meet with alumni in Hong Kong.

The Durham campus has also been active in international outreach. Dean and head Dr. Scott Henderson was abroad promoting the new TEX Centre for Advanced Education throughout India, Bangladesh and Pakistan for students interested in a growing array of postgraduate certificates.

“The extent to which the Trent name is known, respected and sought-after by partners and institutions overseas is edifying,” said Dr. Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “We were also impressed with the quality of students we have met and the commitment of their families to education and all that it offers for their careers and a successful, happy life in Canada or abroad.”

Photo Mosaic

1. Dean of Science Holger Hintelmann, Board of Governors Chair Debra Cooper Burger, Chancellor Stephen Stohn, and AVP Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement Sherry Booth visiting Swansea University in Wales. 
2. VP Communications & Enrolment Marilyn Burns and VP Administration & Finance Tariq Al-idrissi presenting at Canadian University of Dubai.  
3. VP Administration & Finance Tariq Al-idrissi speaker at Canadian University of Dubai.  
4. Dean and Head at Trent University Durham GTA Scott Henderson and Edvoy VP for South Asia Firoz Sait meeting with future students in Dhaka, Bangladesh. 
5. Dr. Cathy Bruce with the International Program Committee of the International commission on Mathematical Instruction in Valencia, Spain. 
6. Trent in Ghana students with visiting delegation: Felicia Neil (Lakefield College School), Kwame Odame (Trent International in Ghana recruitment representative), Cath D'Amico, Director Trent International, and Dr. David Firang, Professor of Social Work and Sustainability Studies. 
7. Chancellor Stephen Stohn, AVP Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement Sherry Booth, Board of Governors Chair Debra Cooper Burger, Dean of Science Holger Hintelmann, and a representative of Swansea University at a Trent Alumni event in London. 
8. President Leo Groarke presents a Trent scarf to an alumna working at Canadian University of Dubai.