The Trent Community Research Centre's Annual Celebration of Community-Based Research in 2024 was a testament to the impactful work undertaken by Trent students throughout the academic year. Held on Thursday, March 28th, 2024, this event served as a platform to recognize and celebrate the achievements of community-based research initiatives at the University.
Key features of the 2024 Celebration of Research included:
- Presentations from current student researchers, offering insights into their research findings and methodologies
- Opportunities for attendees to engage directly with students, fostering dialogue and deeper understanding of the projects
- Recognition of outstanding research contributions through the presentation of the annual student award
- Panel discussion on "Building Capacity Through Collaboration," exploring the importance of collaborative efforts in capacity-building initiatives
This event not only celebrates the accomplishments of our students but also serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit between academia and the community. Through partnerships and shared dedication to knowledge exchange, we continue to drive positive change and foster a culture of innovation.
As we reflect on the successes of the past academic year, we invite you to explore the impactful research outcomes and join us in celebrating the dedication and ingenuity of our students, faculty, and community partners. Click here to see all the completed projects from the 2023/24 academic year.
Annual Celebration of Community-based Research Recognizes Excellence
Student Awards
Award for Innovative Poster Presentation
Presented to the student(s) who have demonstrated highly effective communication and presentation skills in the design of their research poster. Judges looked for high standards of design and information presentation, effective and imaginative use of space, and communication
of research process and results.
Sponsored by Peterborough County
Winner:
Madeleine Hardacre-Pearce
#6056: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Services Provided by Peterborough Child and Family Centres
Peterborough Child and Family Centres
As part of PCFC’s strategic plan, this project reviewed diversity, equity, and inclusion policies for staff and participants. It assessed current programs, policies, and practices to improve service for
underrepresented groups, identifying barriers for new Canadians, minorities, and English-language learners. It will propose solutions to alleviate these barriers.
Faculty Supervisor: Eugena Kwon, Sociology
Award for Innovative Oral Presentation
Presented to the student(s) who have demonstrated highly effective communication and presentation skills in the design of their oral presentation. Judges looked for high standards of design and information presentation, effective and imaginative use of space, and communication of research process and results.
Sponsored by Human Services & Justice Coordinating Committee
Winner(s):
Olivia Gaetz & Riley Bowman
#6070: The State of Amphibian Biodiversity on the Trent University Symons Campus
Trent University – Facilities Management
This project evaluated Trent University Symons Campus’ native amphibian biodiversity, proposing mitigation strategies to preserve its uniqueness. Research questions included identifying reptile and amphibian species and at-risk populations, along with delineating biologically significant areas.
Faculty Supervisor: Kaitlyn Fleming, School of Environment
Provost Award for Academic Achievement
Awarded to the project that best demonstrates rigorous community-based research practices to produce results of particularly high academic merit.
Sponsored by Trent University, Office of the Provost & Vice President Academic
Winner:
Keyana Kamps
#6036: Groundwater Review of Former Millbrook Jail Lands and Watershed
Baxter Creek Watershed Alliance (BCWA)
The project compiled technical studies on the former Millbrook Correctional Centre lands, focusing on chemical contamination assessments within the village’s Wellhead Protection Area. Through a dedicated webpage on the BCWA website, it offered accessible summaries of each report, advocating for land conservation and protection against intense residential development.
Faculty Supervisor: Joel Cahn, Forensic Science
Community Impact Award
Presented to the project that shows clear engagement with community needs and interests and illustrates the principles of a community-first approach to research
work, creating the potential for significant impact within the community.
Sponsored by OPSEU 365
Winner:
Toryn Ruzicki
#6124: Impact of the Supportive Downtown Project
One City Peterborough
The program aimed to address rising tensions and violence in Peterborough’s downtown core with non-criminalizing methods. Outreach Workers engaged with marginalized individuals, offering support, connecting them to services, and assisting businesses in de-escalating conflicts. This research project aims to evaluate the impact of the Supportive Downtown Project.
Faculty Supervisor: Joel Cahn, Forensic Science
Award for Commitment to Professional Learning and Partnership
Presented to a student (or group of students) who exemplified dedication, creative thinking and problem-solving, and professionalism throughout the completion of their Community-Based Research project, helping to strengthen partnerships within and outside of the University.
Winner:
Regan Mania
#6109: Exploring Use of GIS Technology in Policing
Peterborough Police Service
This research project delved into the use of GIS technology in policing, examining its effectiveness based on existing research. It investigated the uptake of GIS technology among Ontario-based police services and analyzed how crime statistics differed between communities with and without GIS technology integration.
Faculty Supervisor: Kristy Buccieri, Sociology
Community Award
Award for Community Commitment to Student Learning
Presented to a community partner for their commitment to meaningful student learning and their support in bringing academic studies to life.
Winner: Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group
Faculty Awards
Growth Impact Award
Presented to a Faculty Supervisor who supervised their first Community-Based Research project in the current academic year, exemplifying commitments to community interests, student achievement, and expansion of personal and professional horizons.
Winner: Dr. Kirk Hillsley
Award for Faculty Leadership in Community-Based Research
Presented to a Faculty Supervisor who has demonstrated a commitment to Community-Based Research and the support of student achievement.
Sponsored by Trent University, Office of Research and Innovation
Winner: Dr. Kaitlyn Fleming
