Susanne Luehr ’09, B.A. Honours Psychology and Sociology, Germany

» Video Transcript

Susanne Luehr is a mother, a mature student, and believes that anything is possible. In addition to research on psychopathy and sexual fantasy, her hands-on thesis research in Sociology at Trent University Oshawa brought her face-to-face with the victims of human trafficking, as she investigated this social phenomenon from the perspective of the human service workers in the field.

As president of the Trent Oshawa Women’s Support Group, Susanne yields her powerful voice to champion women’s rights and sound the alarm to halt human trafficking here and abroad. Her goal is to empower women to take command of their own destiny. “I want to make a difference in many women’s lives by giving the most marginalized groups a voice,” said Susanne. “I hope to use my Trent education to bring about awareness that will inspire policy and other social change, and make things just a little bit better for the next generation of women. What I plan to do could save a girl’s life.”

Through the unrelenting support of the Trent Oshawa community, Susanne found many outlets for her ambition. As a director of The Vagina Monologues, Susanne left no stone or inhibition unturned about women’s rights. Whether volunteering as a peer mentor, raising funds through charity fashion shows, celebrating Black History or helping students with disabilities, she left her undeniable stamp on everything she touched at Trent. She also devoted her time as a board member for The Denise House, an emergency shelter for abused women and children in Oshawa, and served as a volunteer with the Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences in Whitby where she was named Volunteer of the Year. 

Susanne plans to continue her research in southern Ontario and complete her Masters in Psychology.  She also hopes to work at an agency to help victims of violence and oppression. Susanne feels Trent equipped her with the required tools for her own future. “What Trent gave me was the knowledge and practical skills to be able to make a difference and think critically about the world around me,” she said.  Susanne is helping the victimized find their voice, after Trent helped her find her own.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Dean’s Honour Roll (2014)
• Trent Student of the Year (2013)