Celebrating Trent’s Community of Care
Applauding Trent’s family of volunteers during National Volunteer Week April 24-30
A strong sense of community and giving has always been at the core of Trent University. During National Volunteer Week we celebrate those who give back by dedicating their time and talent to Trent and their broader communities.
“Volunteerism is key to building sustainable communities. It allows us to build connections through shared interests and causes,” says Sherry Booth, associate vice president of Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “The Trent community has always had a strong commitment to giving back, not only to the University but also to the communities in which we live and work. We are immensely grateful for our many volunteers who bring a range of perspectives and skills to Trent to ensure a vibrant, caring and thriving learning environment well into the future.”
As much as volunteering is all about giving back to your community, avid volunteers will say that they get as much as they give through their volunteer experiences – building networks, making new friends who share similar interests, and gaining new perspectives and knowledge.
Five Trent volunteers share their experiences and how volunteering has enriched their lives
Doug serves on Trent’s Board of Governors and is a member of the Trent Durham GTA and Philanthropic Advisory Councils. He also served as the co-chair of the Campaign for Trent Durham.
“I have been very fortunate in my career, first in commercial banking, then in investment research and banking, and ultimately starting a broadcasting company. Looking back, my Trent experience played an important role in equipping me with the tools and skills I needed to succeed. Now it is time to give back,” says Doug.
Alma is the co-president of the Trent University Alumni Association and an active member of the Vancouver Alumni Chapter.
“I always say that you get out of life as much as you put in and I think volunteering is not only for others but also for myself. I have had so many wonderful opportunities and experiences and met some wonderful people through volunteering,” shares Alma.
Kristy participates in the TrentUConnect mentoring program, Life After Trent networking events and serves on the Trent University Alumni Association Strategic Advisory Committee. She also supports applied student research through the U-LINKS Centre for Community Based Research.
“I am proud to advise on initiatives that the Trent University Alumni Association is doing to better serve alumni and to make connections between alumni and current students, and the activities that the University is doing from a research or partnerships perspective.”
Scott is the co-vice chair of Trent’s Board of Governors. He has served on the Audit and Investment, Finance and Property, Executive and Human Resource Committees, and currently chairs the Trent Lands Committee.
“Volunteering has always been an outlet where I could really see the outcomes of what I was doing, an opportunity to really make an impact at a personal level […]. Through volunteering, I hope to be part of a movement that breaks down some of the barriers people face. I want to give others some of the opportunities that I have had,” says Scott.
Hana Worsema, third-year Business Administration student
Hana completed a co-op placement in Trent’s Advancement office where she discovered a passion for philanthropy.
“Prior to my placement I really didn't know what kind of industry that I wanted to work in post-graduation. I knew that I wanted to do something meaningful and give back to my community. Working in Trent’s Advancement Office and seeing what that entails has been a great first step and I am excited to pursue a career in the not-for-profit sector, giving back to those who need it most,” shares Hana.
Interested in getting involved and volunteering with Trent University? Get in touch with Alumni Services to learn more about available opportunities.