Fifty years ago, the doors to Otonabee College’s north wing were officially opened to a new cohort of students arriving to study on Trent’s Symons Campus. Now, the college is positioned to welcome thousands of students and alumni who have called Otonabee College home back to its hallowed halls, commemorating a half-century of living, learning, and belonging under the bright red roof. 

As the fifth college to be established at Trent, the opening of Otonabee College – a architectural marvel at the time – signaled a continuation of the dream for the Symons Campus – to create communities where living and learning spaces are one. 

"This isn’t just a big milestone for the college, but for all the lives that have been touched and shaped by being a part of Otonabee College,” says Dr. Jessica Becking, interim principal of Otonabee College. “From alumni through to current students, OCers share an experience that transcends time and has been shaped by the college’s unique culture. Otonabee attracts and develops good humans who are authentic and kind and care for one another and for the world around them. The 50th offers us a fantastic opportunity to celebrate all of this and more as we look ahead to another 50 and beyond." 

Beginning at the Head of the Trent Homecoming and Regatta October 1 and 2, Otonabee College will celebrate their golden year with a series of events. 50th anniversary event highlights include:   

• Head of the Trent – Oct 1 & 2 including a Bleed Green Brunch followed by a Varsity Pep Rally 

• Traditional scarfing ceremony – Nov 4, 2022 

• Otonabee College’s 50th birthday celebration – Dec 2, 2022 

• Otonabee College’s Alumni Weekend – May 13-14, 2023 

Watch for details on these events and more, by visiting Otonabee College’s 50th Anniversary website. 

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