Three long-serving Trent employees will be honoured as recipients of the 2022 Eminent Service Award: Robert Clarke, librarian who guided the Bata Library through its revitalization; manager of Environmental Services Wayne Craft who worked to keep Trent safer throughout the pandemic; and Dr. Margaret Steffler, a beloved English Literature professor.

“It is outstanding employees like Margaret Steffler, Robert Clarke, and Wayne Craft, who have earned us a reputation as an outstanding post-secondary institution that cares about its students and employees,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “This award is very special honour befitting the dedication that they have shown to the Trent community.”

Created in 1978, the Eminent Service Award is presented annually to recognize individuals distinguished by a track record of outstanding contributions to University life that go beyond the performance of their job or role. This year’s recipients will be honoured at the in-person Heart of Trent employee appreciation events on Wednesday, May 11, 2022.

Robert Clarke, Trent University Head Librarian

Robert Clarke served as the university librarian from 2007-21. During his 14-year career with Trent, he guided the Library & Archives through significant transformation, including the revitalization of the Bata Library, the implementation of the Omni library services platform and Collaborative Futures, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Clarke has ensured the Library & Archives continues to evolve with the times, remaining relevant and responsive to the needs of the Trent community.

“Robert oversaw [Trent’s numerous revitalization projects] with his usual good humour, listening ear, and positive outlook,” shared one his nominators. “We celebrated the reopening with students, staff, faculty, donors, and the project team at our Grand Reopening and 50th anniversary celebrations. Robert has left an indelible mark at Trent’s Library and Archives.”

Wayne Craft, Manager of Environmental Services

Wayne Craft worked for Trent in Facilities Management for 21 years, most recently as manager of Environmental Services. Well-known for his excellent customer service, he also played a key role in contributing to the safety of the Trent community during the pandemic. A long-time member of the Facilities and Grounds committee, Mr. Craft also worked to make the Trent Nature Area Trails accessible for all to enjoy.

Mr. Craft’s dedication in the various roles he has held shines through in one of his nomination letters, which notes, “Wayne was able to ensure the safety of staff, faculty and students through his efforts and 24/7 dedication. For more than 20 years, Wayne went beyond the terms of his role and made the seemingly impossible, possible.”

Professor Margaret Steffler, English Literature

Professor Steffler’s contributions to the English department, and the University in general, have been numerous. She taught for years at Trent’s Durham GTA campus where students speak glowingly about her work both in and outside the classroom. She has also served on hiring and curriculum committees, the faculty board, the Committee on Academic Personnel, and the Undergraduate Studies Committee. Prof. Steffler has also served as chair of the English department. 

“[Beyond her academic career highlights] Margaret has served Trent, which are significant and make her a worthy recipient of this distinction. She has been an indefatigable presence at department events, attending readings and award ceremonies,” noted one of her nominators. “Margaret knew that work had to be done – and that it needed to be guided by the ideas and impressions of the people we serve as a university: students.”

Learn more about the Eminent Service Award and other employee appreciation awards to be bestowed at this year’s Heart of Trent event.