The Department of Social Work is proud to recognize students who demonstrate excellence in academic achievement, field education, and commitment to the values of the social work profession.
The following awards and prizes are made possible through the generosity of alumni, faculty, staff, and community supporters. Unless otherwise noted, awards are applied automatically - no application is required. Students will be contacted if they are selected.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Field Placement Prize
Value: $250 per campus (Peterborough and Durham)
| Established by alumni, faculty, staff, and the support of the community to reward students who show dedication to the standards of the profession and a commitment to social justice/action. Students will be selected by a committee based upon accomplishments and evaluations during field placements in the third- or fourth-year of the program. |
Eligibility and Selection:
- Awarded to students in third or fourth year of the BSW program.
- Students are nominated by their Faculty Field Liaison (FFL).
One prize is awarded annually on each campus.
Social Work Award
Value: $250 per campus (Peterborough and Durham)
| To be awarded to student(s) at the Peterborough and Durham campuses in the Social Work program who are a part of equity deserving groups. |
Eligibility and Selection:
- Students must be enrolled full-time in the Social Work program at the time of selection.
Awards details may vary depending on academic year.
Vanhaverbeke Family Prize in Social Work
Value: Two prizes of $1,000 annually
| Established by the founders of Syvan Developments Limited who believe in supporting students in their region. Awarded to two students in the Social Work program at Trent Durham-GTA who demonstrate commitment to the Trent Durham-GTA community and Trent's values. |
Eligibility and Selection:
- Students must be in good academic standing.
- Active participation in student groups, initiatives, or leadership activities at the Durham campus is preferred.
- Students should demonstrate support for diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the Durham-GTA campus community.
Recipients are selected by the Department of Social Work in accordance with donor intent and University policies.
Recent Award Recipients
2024-2025 Academic Year
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Field Placement Prize
- Peterborough Campus: Lee Smith
- Durham Campus: Sarah Dandary
- Vanhaverbeke Family Prize in Social Work
- Anna Harley
- Sofia Johnson
Important Notes
- Award availability are subject to funding and University policies.
- Students may be asked to provide a thank-you message to donors as part of the awards process.
- Awards are administered in accordance with Trent University policies.