The ninth annual Paddle with the President gave staff the chance to join Dr. Leo Groarke, president & vice-chancellor, for one final float up the river. 

This beloved event was designed to provide Trent staff and faculty with a unique and engaging way to build deeper connections with the campus, each other, and the President. With a breathtaking workplace environment at their fingertips, staff and faculty are always eager to take advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity.  

This year, the event saw paddle boarders, canoeists, and kayakers joining President Groarke in his signature kayak to explore the beauty of the Symons Campus, from the water. A special addition to this year’s event was a canoe paddled by Trent Excalibur men’s lacrosse players, flaunting the recently secured Baggataway Cup, along for the ride. 

Afterwards, snacks and refreshments were served to guests, where President Groarke reflected on his time leading this event at Trent. 

“The original idea for this event was to help connect us all to this wonderful, beautiful campus. I think to really appreciate it and be a part of it, you just need to get into the river,” said President Groarke. “As for me and I think others, a little part of each of our souls belongs to this campus, so thank you for sharing this experience with me and coming to Paddle with the President over many years. I'm so grateful.” 

As announced earlier this year, President Groarke will not pursue a third term, making this his last official Paddle with the President. After his term concludes, President Groarke will continue as a professor, researching and teaching at Trent. 

“This is a year we are going to have a lot of events that will be Leo’s last. As an expert boatman and kayaker, this is a tradition that he started as President,” says Marilyn Burns, vice president, Communications & Enrolment. “It’s been an amazing addition to our campus and culture, and we’ve adored paddling alongside him every year.”