Photo courtesy of: Trent University
Trent University has officially installed business leader and human resources executive Zabeen Hirji as its 13th chancellor, marking the beginning of a three-year term focused on preparing students to lead in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Hirji was formally installed during a ceremony attended by graduating students, their families, faculty, staff and community members. She will assume the role on July 1, succeeding former chancellor Dr. Stephen Stohn, who served in the position for seven years.
A recipient of an honorary degree from Trent and a member of the Order of Ontario, Hirji is best known for her leadership career at the Royal Bank of Canada, where she served as chief human resources officer.
University officials said her appointment reflects a growing emphasis on preparing graduates not only with technical skills, but also with the judgment, adaptability and leadership abilities needed to thrive alongside emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
“Chancellor Hirji brings exceptional experience and insights that exemplify the combined power of determination, creativity and human-centred leadership,” said Trent president and vice-chancellor Dr. Cathy Bruce. “Zabeen believes in challenging and supporting students so that they are equipped and motivated to contribute meaningfully in their communities and careers.”
During her term, Hirji plans to strengthen connections between academic learning and practical experience through opportunities such as co-op placements, research projects and experiential learning initiatives.
She will also continue as the founding sponsor of Trent Durham’s STRIDE Business Challenge, a program designed to help students develop solutions to complex real-world problems.
In her installation address, Hirji emphasized the importance of human skills in an era of rapidly advancing technology.
“Universities prepare young people for careers or entrepreneurship. The best universities do more than that,” she said. “They prepare you for leadership, citizenship and purposeful lives.”
“As technology becomes more capable, the qualities that make us human become even more important.”
Hirji highlighted Trent’s interdisciplinary approach to education, pointing to the university’s efforts to connect fields such as science, humanities, philosophy and artificial intelligence while incorporating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.
She also pledged to work closely with students on issues related to the ethical and responsible development of AI, particularly through programs offered at Trent Durham.
Looking ahead, Hirji said she hopes to help students discover their purpose while developing the skills needed to become inclusive leaders and active citizens.
“As the world becomes more complex and uncertain, clarity of purpose becomes even more important,” she said. “I look forward to supporting students to feel they belong and to become inclusive leaders, active citizens and changemakers.”
Trent University says Hirji’s leadership and mentorship will help advance its efforts to prepare graduates for a rapidly evolving workforce while fostering innovation, community engagement and responsible leadership.
