Meet Your Dean
“It is with great excitement that I take on the role of Interim Dean of Science. Having joined the Dean’s office in 2023 as Associate Dean, I have had the pleasure of working with Departments and Programs to build, create, and advance the Sciences at Trent. I am looking forward to being able to continue to support the Sciences at Trent and am excited to foster the development of amazing student opportunities, and creating an environment that cultivates the growth of our future leaders.”
Sarah West
Interim Dean of Science
Dr. Sarah West joined the Trent community in 2015 as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology and the Trent/Fleming School of Nursing and is now a professor in the Kinesiology department. Since 2015, Dr. West has contributed her knowledge and expertise to deliver advanced education, exceptional service, and meaningful research. She led the Kinesiology program as Program Coordinator for two years and was instrumental in Trent’s launch of a four-year Kinesiology degree that features hands-on placement opportunities for students to gain career experience during their degree. In recognition of her exemplary teaching and service of Trent University, Dr. West received a Trent University Faculty Association (TUFA) Merit Award in Teaching in 2019, as well as a TUFA Merit Award in Service in 2022.
As a Registered Kinesiologist and professional member of the Ontario Kinesiology Association, Dr. West has contributed to the field of kinesiology as a researcher and supervisor in several research studies. Dr. West’s research focus is to understand the interaction of exercise in special populations including those with chronic disease and how it is related to various outcomes (including bone and muscle health, as well as psychosocial health). She has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) for her team to research the impact and benefits of summer camp for kids with cancer, and is currently researching the psychosocial benefits of in-hospital recreational oncology programming. Dr. West is also passionate about advancing Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. She was funded by Ontario’s Virtual Learning Strategy in 2022 to lead a project in developing a virtual physical activity and Indigenous health resource created by Indigenous experts and scholars. She was also a Teaching Fellow with the Centre for Teaching and Learning and is conducting research related to student wellness and academic success. Sarah takes an interdisciplinary approach with her research and service at Trent University; she regularly collaborates with students and faculty across Departments and programs, while serving on several committees, working groups and graduate programs.
Ask me anything! Get in touch with Dean West.
e-mail: sarahwest@trentu.ca
phone: 705-748-1011 ext. 6143