Trent University Partners with Dene First Nation to Offer Innovative New Indigenous Diploma

Trent University is launching a new Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences diploma with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) for Dene students in the Northwest Territories.

photo courtesy of trent university.

The program will blend Western sciences with Dene Indigenous Knowledge and offering experiential learning opportunities grounded in YKDFN culture.

“Trent’s leadership in Indigenous Studies and Sciences continues with this exciting and innovative new diploma program,” said Dr. Chris Furgal, program co-Director of Trent University’s Indigenous Environmental Studies/Sciences degree program. “The diploma program will provide Indigenous members of the Dene Nation with the opportunity to learn knowledge and develop skills to address complex environmental problems facing their own communities, governments, businesses and society.”

This Dene focused Indigenous Environmental Studies & Sciences diploma is the first diploma program the University has developed in specific partnership with an individual First Nation. It is offered jointly by the Trent School of the Environment and the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies in partnership with Trent’s Indigenous Environmental Studies/Sciences program. The diploma consists of 10 courses over two years with credits transferrable to a B.A. or B.Sc. program.

“This is a really good program. Residential schools and far-away from home education is a thing of the past; we are dealing with reconciliation now and we are hoping that education can be closer to home and family,” said Chief Fred Sangris of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. “The family are the cultural keepers, and this is one reason we want our young people to be closer to their families and home for a brighter future outlook. As Yellowknives Dene First Nation leadership, we fully support the younger generation’s education and future economic prosperity as it happens in the community and still receive the same academic credits as they would have, if they attended southern universities.”

Year One courses will introduce students to foundations in Indigenous learning and the environment. Year Two courses will provide a deeper exploration into language, ethics, the environment, and critical relationships among these things.

All courses will offer a unique opportunity to incorporate Dene ways of knowing and being and their application to land and environment and be tailored to relevant environmental and ecological systems in the North. For example, course work is likely to include local cultural and environmental components including Dene land use protocols, Dene land stewardship practices, and traditional Dene land navigation skills.

To qualify, students must have successfully completed the equivalent of Ontario Grade 12 or qualify as a mature student.

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Trent University Recognizes Nine Distinguished Research and Symons Teaching Award Winners

In a return to an in-person ceremony, Trent University has announced the recipients of the 2023 teaching and research awards at Stohn Hall at the University’s Student Centre on Wednesday afternoon.

“Each year, the teaching and research awards provide us an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of some of our amazing faculty members – and the ways that they shape Trent as an institution that is known for critical thought, engaging dialogue and interdisciplinarity,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor.

The following is a full list of recipients:

Distinguished Research Award: Dr. Hugh Elton, Ancient Greek and Roman Studies

Celebrating a full career of internationally recognized intellectual contributions, the Distinguished Research Award is the highest honour conferred by the University for research and scholarly activity.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Elton is an internationally renowned scholar in Roman military history and the political and cultural history of the Late Roman Empire. With research focused on the Eastern Frontier (cultural and political boundary covering a large part of Central Asia), Prof. Elton has contributed extensively to our knowledge of the development and impact of the Empire Frontier in the area we now know as Türkiye.

Over his career, Prof. Elton has published three monographs and five co-edited collections with highly regarded scholars in his field, as well as over 60 refereed articles. Since 2020 his publication record continues to flourish with eight published refereed articles, seven more in press and another monograph.

One nominator highlighted, “Whether measured by volume, by quality, or by the impact he has had on other scholars, Prof. Elton’s research contributions are extraordinary.”

The impact of Prof. Elton’s work is simultaneously precise and wide-ranging. His influence spans time as well as place. Recognition for his work was buoyed by many letters from colleagues around the world. As an active lecturer since 1993 and a member of the Ancient Greek & Roman Studies program at Trent since 2006, he has also significantly contributed to the training of highly qualified personnel through mentorship and research guidance, leading his students to many and varied successful careers.

Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Elizabeth Russell, Psychology

The Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching, named in honour of Trent’s founding president Professor Thomas H.B. Symons, recognizes faculty and staff members who encourage learning, offer unique experiences to their students, challenge them to do their best work, and inspire them to learn.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Professor Russell is well known for demonstrating a passion for teaching and for her dedication to mentorship, inspiring students to do their best work.

One nominator highlighted, “Never in my academic career have I seen such a commitment, on a professor’s part, to ensuring their students have everything they need to succeed.”

Professor Russell incorporates active learning strategies, authentic assessment forms, and interactive experiential learning into all her courses. Through her role as director of the Trent Centre for Aging and Society, Dr. Russell has led the creation of the TCAS Knowledge Mobilization Hub, a platform to share academic, aging-based research with non-academic audiences, and also the Master’s in Interdisciplinary Aging Studies, a new graduate program which, in true Trent fashion, brings together academic research with hands-on, experiential learning.

She makes a point of getting to know each student by name and maintains a focus on student wellness.

According to another nominator: “Dr. Russell’s concern for students should be the standard by which all others operate.”

Early Career Researcher Awards

Recognizes promising, early-career Trent University researchers and is designed to help accelerate early-stage career faculty in building strong research programs of consequence.          

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Jenn Cole, Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies and Gender & Social Justice: Professor Cole’s impressive program of research—supported by external grants from the Ontario Arts Council and Social Science and Humanities Research Council—is focused on Indigenous performance and gender and community engagement. Her work has led to a unique combination of artistic expression and academic outputs. Her already extensive publication record includes a peer-reviewed monograph, peer-reviewed journal articles, and a list of widely accessible articles and creative works crafted for the community.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Kimberly Ritchie, Trent/Fleming School of Nursing: The strength of Professor Ritchie’s research program stems from her blend of expertise in mental health, trauma, aging, and healthcare work. With a grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, she is supporting trauma-informed organizational practices for healthcare workers. She is also the principal investigator on a project studying the mental health and well-being of veterans. Prof. Ritchie is also affiliated with McMaster University's Trauma and Recovery Unit, further demonstrating considerable involvement in advancing both knowledge and practice in public mental health and trauma.

Award for Educational Leadership and Innovation

Recognizes faculty and staff who make a distinctive impact through their educational leadership and innovation in teaching and learning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Jennifer Newton, Anthropology: As an assistant professor with the department of Anthropology, Professor Newton is known for her extraordinary innovation at the course and department levels. Dr. Newton has worked diligently to create innovative and equitable learning experiences for anthropology students across both campuses, developing unique opportunities and teaching materials for the Durham lab.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Kirk Hillsley, Biology: An assistant professor in the department of Biology, Professor Hillsley is recognized for his pedagogical innovations at the course and department levels. Prof. Hillsley led efforts to create an introductory course for non-science majors and has also been a leader in the development of best practices for online courses within the biology department.

Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance

Recognizes teaching assistants who excel at encouraging learning in workshop, tutorial, seminar, laboratory, or field settings.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

William Kim, Environmental and Life Sciences: Kim, a Ph.D. candidate in Environmental and Life Sciences and a teaching assistant in biology, is championed for his exceptional support for students’ learning. Both students and faculty recognize how Kim goes above and beyond to foster student success.

Award for Excellence in Online Teaching

Recognizes instructors who have demonstrated a passion for, and commitment to, online teaching and who have implemented effective approaches to fostering active learning and student involvement.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Erick Laming, Sociology: An assistant professor of Criminology in the department of Sociology, Laming supports student learning by using a variety of teaching materials to foster multiple modes of student engagement. Professor Laming makes accessibility a priority in his pedagogical approach. 

CUPE 3908-1 Award for Excellence in Teaching

Recognizes contract faculty who have a strong, positive impact on students’ learning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Dr. Mary-Claire Buell, Indigenous Environmental Studies and Sciences: As a course instructor in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Sciences and soon-to-be assistant professor in the Trent School of the Environment and Forensic Science, Professor Buell encourages and supports students’ curiosity and responds quickly and actively to students’ needs. Concepts of equity are successfully built into her course design and materials.

“At Trent University, researchers continue to demonstrate an exceptional level of research activity and a keen commitment to their work, which is truly inspiring,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, vice president of Research & Innovation. “The range and depth of scholarly activity has garnered global attention, making a profound impact on our understanding of the world and one another. The Trent community extends heartfelt congratulations to all the award recipients on these well-deserved recognitions of achievement.”

"This year's award recipients exemplify not only excellence and innovation in their teaching but they also reveal a capacity to inspire students not only to succeed, but to extend their learning beyond the classroom," said Dr. Fergal O'Hagan, associate dean of Teaching and Learning at Trent. "We are humbled by their tireless efforts, and celebrate their dedication to student learning, their lasting impact, and the value teaching holds within the institution."

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Fleming College Student To Compete In National Culinary Competition

Fleming College Culinary student Mayank Mohandas has punched his ticket to the National Culinary Federation (CF) Competition in Niagara Falls after taking the top spot in the CF Central Region Chef’s Challenge Competition, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Mayank is in his fourth semester of the Culinary Management program. He was joined at the March competition by fellow students Josh Massie and alumna Sophie Crowder.

Competitors had to break down a chicken and then turn four portions of it into an entrée.

The National Junior Chef Competition at the CF Conference runs from June 4 to June 8.

Crowder placed third in the Central Regional competition and is now a support team member on Senior Team Canada. They are competing in Luxembourg later this year.

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Trent University President Leo Groarke Announces Intention to Step Down From Presidency

Trent University President Dr. Leo Groarke to step down from his presidency as of June 2024, deciding not to pursue a third term as president.

photo courtesy of trent university.

Dr. Leo Groarke has announced that he will not pursue a third term as president, and has instead decided to conclude his tenure as president and vice chancellor of Trent University at the end of June 2024. He will be leaving a legacy of accomplishments that have advanced Trent’s academic, administrative and community profile, says Trent.

“A university president and vice chancellor wears many hats, and President Groarke has donned them all,” said Debra Cooper Burger, chair of Trent University’s Board of Governors. “Over the past decade, the postsecondary sector has evolved in the face of both opportunities and challenges. President Groarke, through careful, critical, and compassionate leadership, has helped Trent University flourish as an academic institution, here in our local communities in Peterborough and Durham GTA, as well as globally. We are confident in the future of Trent, due in large part to President Groarke’s work ensuring a strong and healthy position for our University.”

Among the many highlights, President Groarke has led unprecedented year-over-year undergraduate and graduate enrolment growth, establishing a strong financial basis for the future of the University across both its Peterborough and Durham GTA campuses. Other fiscal successes have included a groundbreaking inaugural debenture, program development, the careful fiscal management of the institution, and, most recently, Trent’s partnership with the University Pension Plan established by the University of Guelph, Queen’s University, and the University of Toronto.

Emphasizing student success through the interdisciplinary education that Trent values, President Groarke spearheaded the launch of four Schools of Study at Trent—focused on the Study of Canada, Environment, Business, and Indigenous Studies. More than 20 undergraduate and 13 new graduate programs have also launched during President Groarke’s tenure. They include: Conservation Biology, Social Work, Data Science, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, the Medical Professional Stream, and Child & Youth Studies, as well as Master of Instrumental Chemical Analysis, Master of Nursing, Master of Management and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Social Research.

Other initiatives have included creative international partnerships like the Law & Arts/Business, Chemical Engineering dual degrees and medical science programs with Swansea University, as well as innovative agreements for medical pathways with several institutions in the Caribbean.Recent initiatives include: the launch of paid co-op streams in more than 20 academic programs across the Humanities, Social Sciences and Sciences; the creation of the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership; the addition of eight prestigious Canada Research Chairs; and a major expansion of experiential learning opportunities and study abroad programming. During President Groarke’s two terms, international enrolment at Trent has grown from 7 per cent to 15.5 per cent of University enrolment.

“I have been very fortunate to work with a strong Executive team, supportive Boards of Governors, and positive labour and student unions,” Dr. Groarke commented. “Together it has allowed Trent to evolve in ways that are good for our students, our researchers, and our communities. I am inspired when I see the hustle and bustle on our two expanding campuses, note the growth of the reputation of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and witness the breadth of our community engagements. There is always more that can be accomplished and I hope to contribute more in the year to come, and then as a professor when I pass the torch on to a new president on June 30, 2024.”

President Groarke has made connections with alumni and a culture of philanthropy key priorities during his two terms. He has overseen the successful completion of the $56.8 million Unleash the Potential Campaign, a $6.6 million Campaign for Trent Durham GTA, and recently launched the University’s most ambitious campaign to date – the $100 million Campaign for Momentous Change. These campaigns have added dynamic new spaces to Trent’s campus landscapes – including the Student Centre, Forensic Crime Scene Facility and Trent Durham’s residence and academic building. A personal philanthropic supporter of the University, President Groarke established the Louis and Paul Groarke Philosophy Endowment.

Equity, diversity, inclusion has been another priority during Dr. Groarke’s presidency. He has continued to emphasize Trent’s role as a leader in reconciliation and Indigenous education; prioritized the health and well-being of students, the campus and our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic; supported initiatives stemming from an anti-racism task force report; and emphasized positive labour relations between administration and Trent’s unions.

Trent University’s continued ranking as the #1 undergraduate university in Ontario for 12 years in a row is further reflection of President Groarke’s contributions to the institution’s growing reputation nationally and internationally, and testimony to his leadership and pursuit of excellence for the institution and its staff, faculty, and students.

Celebrations to honour President Groarke at the end of his term in June 2024 will be planned and announced at a later date. The Board is currently developing the new Presidential Mandate, and details regarding the search for Trent’s ninth president and vice-chancellor will be shared as they are developed. Updates will be shared online.

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Roy Weirenga Becomes New CAO For Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario

Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO) has introduced Roy Wierenga as their Chief Administrative Officer beginning May 8, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNCCDSB.

Weirenga is bringing 35 years of student transportation experience to the position according to a press release.

The company is responsible for planning school bus routes for Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board and Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir schools.

“I have always felt so fortunate and blessed to be able to work in a profession that supports students and education," said Wierenga. "When we do our jobs well in transportation, and students arrive safely and on time at school, this has such a positive impact on student success.”

The position is a bit of a homecoming since he began his career working in Peterborough for Trentway-Wagar Bus Lines and then as Manager of Transportation for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. Weirenga was involved in the establishment of STSCO in 2005 before accepting a position with the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority (OSTA) as General Manager.

In the past decade, Wierenga has been employed with Student Transportation of Peel Region (STOPR), working with industry and government committees that examined changes for improving student transportation across Ontario.

“I am thrilled that my journey in student transportation has now brought me back home to Peterborough where my career started many years ago," said Wierenga. "I look forward to working with the team at STSCO, our member school boards and bus operators, to find solutions that will ensure a safe and sustainable transportation network for our students and school communities going into the future."

Wierenga will replace long-serving CAO Joel Sloggett, who will be retiring from STSCO after 18 years.

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STSCO CAO Joel Sloggett Announces Retirement After 18 Years of Busing Consortium

After serving an 18-year tenure as Chief Administrative Officer for the Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO), Joel Sloggett is retiring from the position, announced by the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNC) on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNC.

STSCO is responsible for planning school bus routes for Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, PVNC and Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir schools. He is retiring from his position in early May.

“I have appreciated working with many bus and taxi company managers over the years and interacting with several thousand drivers. I always enjoyed being challenged with issues and problems which require careful analysis,” said Sloggett. “Supporting the education of children by getting them to school ready to learn and home after an enjoyable day has been a big motivator over these many years.”

Sloggett started at PVNC in 1996 as a supervisor of planning and assessment. He was promoted to the Board’s Manager of Planning and Transportation role, which he held from 1996 to 2005 when STSCO was established and he was hired as CAO to oversee transportation planning for all three local school boards.

Sloggett served as President of the Ontario Association of School Business Officials Association (OASBO) in 2009-10 and was awarded the International Association of School Business Officials Pinnacle Award in 2010 for business operations leadership, recognizing STSCO’s innovative bus company performance monitoring system.

Sloggett plans to travel internationally and perform home renovations upon his retirement. 

“Every day has been a fast-paced, action-packed one in school busing and I will miss that,” said Sloggett.

An announcement introducing the new STSCO CAO will be released next week.

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Trent Leasing University-Owned Land to RDC to Build Student Housing Totaling Roughly 215 Beds on Water Street

Trent University has leased property for Residence Development Corporation (RDC) to build and operate an upper-year student housing building with approximately 215 beds near the Symons Campus in Peterborough announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The land is four-acres on Water Street, adjacent to and south of Tim Hortons. The housing complex is projected to open in late 2024. RDC also built University residence units further north on Water Street at Nassau Mills Road, on land leased from the University.

“We are thrilled to announce this new project by RDC to build additional student housing. RDC has a proven track record of building and operating safe, quality student housing,and this development will provide more housing options for upper-year students close to the Symons Campus,” said Julie Davis, vice-president of external relations and development. “There is a need for more housing in Peterborough and this new student housing project is just one of the ways Trent is working to help alleviate some of the housing pressures in our community.”

The land is already been zoned for residential use. RDC will build and operate the three-storey townhouse-style building.

“RDC has been working with the University since 2008 as we began the process of building out the Water Street student housing development,” said Brian Freeman, senior vice president of strategy and development at Campus Living Centres. “We have worked closely with a number of campus stakeholders since then and are proud to be part of the Trent community,”

Plans are underway to build a new residence on the Symons Campus which will be followed by a full replacement and expansion of Otonabee College, adding more than 700 new beds to the University’s current complement of residence spaces according to Trent. The University-Integrated Seniors Village will be anchored by a 224-bed not-for-profit long-term care home expected to break ground in 2024.

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Fleming College Hosting New Prospective Students In Spring Open House This Saturday

Fleming College is looking to attract new prospective students as their Sutherland, Frost and Haliburton campuses are hosting their Spring Open House this Saturday.

Photo courtesy of FLeming College.

The open house runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It features guided tours while guests can learn about the services offered to students according to Fleming College. Information is available regarding financial aid options, the application process and life in residence. Instructors and teachers will be on-site to give information regarding their classes and answer any questions gusts may have.

The Sutherland Campus has displays and demonstrations in various campus labs, classrooms and the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre and the varsity department will be hosting games like basketball, Plinko and spike ball.

Frost Campus features state-of-the-art simulators where guests can catch some live tree climbing and Loggersports demonstrations. There is also a raffle for one guest to win the opportunity to hit the detonator button during the campus’s wildly popular blasting techniques demonstration.

The Haliburton Open House features live demonstrations in our spacious art studios, including felting, ceramics and a look at the Photo Arts Dark Room at the Haliburton School of Art + Design.

The Open House for Fleming’s Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training program takes place at the Eastern Ontario Emergency Training Academy in Norwood, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Fleming College is covering the application fees for the first 50 applicants at the Sutherland Campus, the first 25 at the Frost Campus and the first 10 at the Haliburton Campus. Gift cards will be handed out to the first students who confirm their offer at the three Fleming College campuses. Anyon confirming their offer by April 15 will be automatically entered into a draw to win a $500 gift card to the Campus Bookstore.

Fleming is also bringing back the Cash for College contest for domestic students who confirm their offers to a Fall 2023 program by Sep. 9. The winner receives $5,000 for tuition; Last year’s winner was enrolled in Fleming’s Practical Nursing program.

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Applications Open For Steve Montador H.O.P.E Bursary For High School Students With Sports-Related Injuries

Applications for the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) H.O.P.E. Bursary in honour of Steve Montador are open with the deadline on May 1 until midnight.

(from left to right) Mike Martone (H.O.P.E.), David Graham , Eliza Graham and Chad Cavanagh (H.O.P.E.). Eliza was last year’s recipient of the bursary. Photo courtesy of Vince Bierworth and GPHSF.

The bursary is for high school students that have a reduced academic workload due to the suffering effects of sports-related injuries and are transitioning into college or university.

All applicants will be reviewed by a committee consisting of H.O.P.E., Team 55, GPHSF, Your Family Health Team Foundation,and the Canadian Mental Health Association. All applicants will be notified of their status by May 16.

To be considered for the Bursary, you need to be:

• A student at a Peterborough City/County-based high school and registered in a first-year program at college/university

• Suffering from post-concussion syndrome sustained from a sports-related injury

• Be in satisfactory academic standing

• Have financial need

Students can apply for the bursary by downloading the registration form online.

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Renewal Sees Fleming Students Launch Peterborough Museum and Archive Exhibition As Guest Curators

Fleming College’s Museum Management and Curatorship (MMC) students have renewed the Peterborough Museum and Archives’ (PMA) long-term exhibitions to be guest curators for a Victorian Era exhibition announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

MMC students after learning from two semesters will reimagine the PMA’s Victorian Era exhibition. The renewal includes key visual changes, decolonizing the exhibit narrative, contents and language and creating a more inclusive and diverse exhibition.

‘Welcome to Boomtown’ exhibition focuses 1860 through 1900 in Peterborough. It captures what life was like as the region and its surrounding Indigenous communities experienced growth, hardship and change according to a press release. Visitors will appreciate previously untold stories, view artifacts and archival materials from the PMA’s extensive collections and have new opportunities to interact with the exhibition, the region’s heritage and each other.

The exhibition opening takes place on Thursday from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Peterborough Museum and Archives, located at 300 Hunter St. E. in Peterborough. Admission is by donation.

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