Trent University Mourns the Loss of Elena Koudiakova
As a long-serving employee, Elena dedicated 25 years to Trent University in a variety of roles
The Trent University community is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of long-serving employee Elena Koudiakova.
Elena had many friends and colleagues at Trent and within the international recruitment community across the globe. She was highly respected for her work in international student recruitment and admissions and was known for her compassion and thoughtfulness, always providing warm and insightful guidance for students.
Elena dedicated over 25 years to the University, passionately supporting international and domestic students through her roles in Trent International and the Admissions Team. She was known for her unwavering commitment to making a difference in students' lives, often going the extra mile to assist anyone in need. In 2024, she was honoured with an Award of Excellence by the Ontario University Registrars Association, recognizing her outstanding contributions.
Elena’s career at Trent began in September 1997, joining the University as assistant secretary for Trent International, before becoming a recruitment assistant for Trent International in July 2000. Two years later, she transitioned to the role of international recruitment and admissions coordinator. With a few more title changes over the years, she took on the role of admissions officer with Recruitment & Admissions in May 2021. Also, she was a fitness instructor at the Athletics Centre from 1997 to 1999.
"I had the pleasure of working alongside Elena for over 10 years. Elena exuded grace and professionalism in everything she did,” said Eliza Nicholson, director of Recruitment & Admission. “She was a wealth of knowledge in international admissions and played a key role in training our admissions officer team. Applicants to Trent often praised Elena’s warm and quick responses to their inquiries. She went above and beyond to ensure that future Trent students had the support they needed to thrive. Even after their arrival, students turned to Elena for guidance and advice. Everything she did was for the students. Her passion for Trent’s students will remain with our team and keep our memories of her close."
The University extends heartfelt sympathies to Elena’s family and friends, and all who knew her at Trent and around the world.
In honour of Elena, the University will lower the flag atop the Bata Library to half-mast position the weekend of her service.