Two Trent University professors have received national recognition for their work in climate action and social justice, while dozens of faculty and staff were celebrated for their service and leadership at this year’s Heart of Trent awards.
Dr. Stephen Hill and Dr. Naomi Nichols were each awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal — a federal honour presented to Canadians whose efforts have strengthened communities and advanced national well-being. The medals were presented during Trent’s annual celebration of excellence across the institution.
Dr. Hill, director of the Trent School of the Environment, was recognized for his expertise in climate and energy policy, and for advancing local sustainability through research, education, and community engagement. Dr. Nichols, a Canada Research Chair in Community-Partnered Social Justice and director of the Research for Social Change Lab, was honoured for her work on youth homelessness, systemic inequality, and social innovation rooted in lived experience.
The event also celebrated a wide range of faculty and staff accomplishments. The Eminent Service Award was presented to Dr. Rita Bode and Professor David Newhouse for their exceptional contributions to the University over the course of their careers. Long Service Awards were given to more than 30 employees marking 25 to 40 years at Trent.
Other award recipients included Dr. Thomas Hossie for impactful biological research, Leslie Spooner for excellence in student services, and Dr. Alba Agostino for faculty service leadership. Team innovation was recognized through the Library Services Team, while faculty and staff members Sumiko Polacco and Dr. Sarah Jamieson were acknowledged for community leadership in Peterborough and Durham.
Emeritus status was conferred on A. Haroon Akram-Lodhi, Rita Bode, Victoria de Zwaan, Cyndi Gilmer, Brendan Hickie, David Newhouse, and Erica Nol in recognition of their careers of distinguished academic service.
From national medals to grassroots impact, the Heart of Trent celebration reflected the university’s mission to foster change through collaboration, research, and education.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
