Trent University unveiled a stunning new Lifetime Giving Recognition installation during the ‘Gathering Momentum: Trent’s Celebration of Outstanding Giving’ event on June 1, celebrating and thanking supporters whose gifts have boosted student success, improved campus life and transformed the University landscape by supporting new infrastructure.

The installation’s six pillars, located outside the Student Centre, are a nod to the iconic Ron Thom architecture found throughout the Symons Campus and commemorate Trent surpassing $100 million in philanthropic support since the University’s inception.

“Trent University is an institution anchored in philanthropy. The generous supporters recognized on this installation are deeply committed to Trent,” says Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice chancellor of Trent University. “The impact of their support for our students and faculty surpasses $100 million dollars and stretches across both campuses. The fruit of their giving includes scholarships, award-winning research, support for our varsity teams, the Justin Chiu Stadium and the revitalization of the Bata Library. We thank each and every donor who has helped us build Trent’s legacy as the top undergraduate institution in Ontario.”

The 185 donors recognized on the installation include alumni, students, foundations, organizations and individuals including staff, faculty, retirees, board members and other Trent community members. The first and last pillars describe the installation and recognize the generosity of benefactor Gavin Marshall ’76, while the other four represent the following recognition categories:

• The Trent Visionaries $1,000,000 - $10,000,000+
• The Chancellors’ Guild $500,000 - $999,999
• The Governors’ Council $250,000 - $499,999
• The Presidents’ Circle $100,000 - $249,999

During an unveiling event held earlier today, the University also announced a new $1-million gift, from long-time Trent supporters David and Joan Moore, that will establish the prestigious Moore Family International Scholarship. This new scholarship will offer a recurring four-year scholarship for three students from outside of North America.

“This momentous gift will truly impact the lives of international students,” says Sherry Booth, associate vice president Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. “All of our supporters are vital partners, and with support from alumni, our community and friends, Trent University remains a vibrant institution for collaboration, discovery and leadership. Today’s event celebrates the momentum of positive change since the University’s inception and honours the generosity of our supporters.”

The University also thanked generous supporters who have contributed to the following initiatives over the past academic year:

• Support for Indigenous graduate students through a $1 million estate gift from Bill Reid.
• A new residence and academic building at Trent Durham following a successful inaugural campaign that raised $6.6 million.  
• A new nursing scholarship supporting local students from a rural background thanks to a $100,000 gift from Doreen Stewart RN.
• Improved financial aid and student spaces following the second annual Trent Day, which raised more than $1.1 million, while also collecting non-perishables for local food banks in Peterborough and Durham.