Trent University Mourns the Passing of Governor Emeritus William J. Saunderson

Trent University is saddened to learn of the passing of governor emeritus the Honourable William (Bill) Saunderson.  

Bill Saunderson served on Trent University’s Board of Governors for seven years, from 1999 to 2006, and was appointed governor emeritus in 2006. During his time on the Board, he was a member of the Audit and Finance Committee, the Finance and Property Committee, and later the Endowment Lands & Governance Task Force. Following his term as governor, he continued his involvement with the University as an external member of the Endowment Lands Committee from 2007 to 2014.  

Beyond the University, Governor Emeritus Saunderson had a distinguished career in finance, public service, and community leadership. A chartered accountant and retired officer of the Royal Canadian Navy, he was a co-founder and vice president of Sceptre Investment Counsel Ltd. He served as Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Tourism, and held numerous board and advisory roles across the education, arts, healthcare, and charitable sectors.  

Read the full obituary for the Honourable Bill Saunderson.  

The University extends its sincere condolences to Mr. Saunderson’s family and friends, all who knew him at Trent.