A single opportunity can shape a student’s path and Trent Giving Day is all about expanding those opportunities. On April 8, the University community is coming together for a 24-hour campaign to support the Trent Fund.  

For students like Tabytha Wells ’16 (Traill College), a recent M.Sc. graduate, that support helped shape her path at Trent. 

Through the Trent Fund, Tabytha worked at the Trent Centre for Aging & Society (TCAS), in a role closely aligned with her research interests in intergenerational learning and reducing ageism.  

“The Trent Fund provided me with the opportunity to take on an on-campus role that aligned directly with my passion for research,” Tabytha says. “My work with TCAS was the ultimate launchpad. It gave me the professional velocity to transition from a student to a researcher, providing the skills to ensure that academic work actively makes life more accessible and equitable for our neighbours.” 

Working alongside her research supervisor, Dr. Elizabeth Russell, Tabytha helped develop and launch an intergenerational classroom model that fosters connections between Trent students and older community members. The initiative brought together 60 students and 13 older adults in a shared learning environment each week, creating space for dialogue, reflection, and mutual understanding across generations. 

Building on the success of the pilot, Tabytha and Professor Russell recently completed the second iteration of the intergenerational classroom project, which is embedded in Prof. Russel’s third-year Psychology of Aging course. 

Expanding opportunities for students

Trent Giving Day invites alumni, donors, and community members to support the Trent Fund and the students it serves. 

“Trent Giving Day brings our community together to strengthen the Trent Fund and the life-changing opportunities the fund creates for students,” says Sandy Marett, associate vice-president, Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “The Fund plays a vital role in helping students build the skills and experience they need to succeed, both during their studies and beyond, by enabling opportunities like on-campus employment, experiential learning and financial support.” 

This year, with thanks to Joanne Dereta ’72 (Lady Eaton College), all gifts will be matched up to $10,000, doubling the impact of every contribution and increasing access to opportunities that help students gain experience, strengthen their learning, and prepare for what comes next. 

Learn more about supporting students through the Trent Fund on Trent Giving Day (and year-round). Trent staff and faculty can also support students through payroll deductions.