The Trent community is saddened to learn of the passing of Fred Sherratt, governor emeritus and a dedicated supporter of the University.  

Fred served on the Board for seven consecutive years from October 2004 to June 2011. During his tenure, he made significant contributions to the HR Subcommittee, Board Executive Committee, Presidential Search Committee 2008-2009, and the Finance & Property committee, which he chaired from 2006 to 2011. 

Fred was not only a dedicated philanthropic supporter of the University, but also a strong champion of Trent, contributing to many campus projects. He made annual donations to the Board Leadership Scholarship and established the Sherratt Bursary for Athletics to provide financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students participating in varsity athletics programs, making it one of the largest financial awards for student-athletes. In addition, he contributed to many campus projects including the DNA Research & Teaching Centre, the Gathering Space, the redevelopment of Athletics facilities, major Bata Library and Traill College renovations, to name a few. 

Fred was a renowned figure in the broadcasting industry, co-founding CFRS Simcoe and holding various positions including executive vice president and chief operating officer of CHUM. 

Fred received several accolades for his outstanding contributions to the broadcasting system, including the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ Distinguished Service Gold Ribbon Award in 1984, the Ted Rogers Senior/Velma Rogers Graham National Award in 1993, and induction into the Canadian Broadcast Hall of Fame in 1995. He was also presented with the First-ever Ontario Association of Broadcasters' Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008 and the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award in the same year. 

The University extends heartfelt sympathies to Fred’s family and friends, and to all who knew him at Trent. View the full obituary. 

In honour of Fred’s contributions to Trent, the University will lower the flag atop the Bata Library to the half-mast position on the day of his service.