1. Celebrating 50 Years of Trent Durham Excellence

Since its founding in 1974, Trent Durham has grown into a vibrant campus serving nearly 3,000 students today. This year’s 50th anniversary celebration highlighted the launch of a new program in artificial intelligence and the addition of biological anthropology course options. A special event in October brought together students, faculty, and community leaders to mark this milestone and look ahead to another half-century of growth.

2. A New President, A New Vision

In July, Dr. Cathy Bruce became Trent’s ninth president and vice-chancellor, bringing 30 years of academic and administrative experience to the role. Officially installed in September, her inspiring ceremony set the stage for a new era focused on community, sustainability, and lifelong learning.

President Bruce will be working closely with renewed Trent chancellor Dr. Stephen Stohn, who was reappointed for a one-year term in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the University and mentorship to students.

3. Enhanced Scholarships for Top Scholars

A first-year full tuition scholarship was announced for new students with a 95%+ average, alongside enhanced renewable entrance scholarships for domestic and international students with 80%+ averages. These initiatives underscore Trent’s commitment to supporting students and academic excellence.

4. Forensics Facility Sets a First for Canada

Trent marked a new milestone in the University’s leadership in sustainability and cutting-edge research: the Forensics Crime Scene Facility became the first building in Canada to earn a Zero Carbon Certification from the International Living Future Institute.

5. Reconciliation in Action

Trent advanced its commitment to Indigenous reconciliation and education with initiatives like the unveiling of Gidigaa Migizi College’s new crest designed by First Nations artist Jared Tait, the public build and launch of a traditional birchbark canoe, and the addition of a Medicine Garden and Tipi at the Durham GTA campus.

6. Research and Teaching Recognition

From the Order of Canada to groundbreaking research awards, Trent faculty showcased their expertise in 2024. Highlights include Biology professor Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos’ historic win of the American Geophysical Union’s William Kaula Award—the first Canadian to receive the award—Dr. Stephanie Rutherford earning one of five Canada Prizes for her book Villain, Vermin, Icon, Kin about humans’ relationship with wolves, and Professor David Newhouse receiving the prestigious Lee Lorch Award by the Council of the Canadian Association of University Teachers for his commitment to teaching, research, and service.

7. Evolving Education: New Academic Offerings

Trent’s commitment to teaching and learning delivered a suite of new programs designed to offer students new opportunities to gain new skills and knowledge for an edge in an ever-changing world. The University signed a new agreement with the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to offer Medical Professional Stream students direct pathways into Doctor of Pharmacy and Doctor of Optometry programs. Trent also launched a new Master of Arts Management to support graduate leadership success in the arts, culture, and heritage sectors, and a new postgraduate certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence helping undergraduate students gain an edge in AI.

8. Athletic Achievements

Trent’s Excalibur athletes had an outstanding year, from rowing gold at the Dad Vail Regatta to raising more than $78,000 for scholarships through the President’s Excalibur Golf Tournament. Trent’s Rugby program also earned standout recognition with varsity athlete Austin Allen, alumni Melvin Alexis ’18 and Khalil Ajram ’08, as well as former coach David McCully receiving honours at the Rugby Ontario Awards for contributions to the sport.

9. Largest Graduating Class in History

In June, Trent celebrated its largest graduating class ever—more than 3,100 graduates celebrated across Peterborough and at Trent Durham GTA—a testament to Trent’s leading education and student experience in attracting new students and preparing graduates to lead in a wide range of sectors.

10. Reaching New Frontiers in Research

This year, Trent showed its strengths in research with several achievements including a Ph.D. candidate in Canadian Studies winning the prestigious Trudeau Scholarship in recognition for research exploring chronic pain experiences in older adults; deer-tagging research by Forensic Science Professor Dr. Aaron Shafer being profiled in Parks Canada’s Climate Crew series; Ph.D. candidate Josephine Esposto winning an award from Brain Canada for her research on ALS detection and therapy; and Trent earning a spot in the Winner’s Circle of the Research Infosource ranking in the Not-for-Profit Research Income Growth category.

Looking Ahead: From new scholarships to cutting-edge programs, 2024 proved to be a momentous year at Trent. Here’s to an even brighter future in 2025 and beyond!