A Foreign Area of Interest

Over the process of two years and currently as a 3rd year student, I find myself in this changing and alien state of existence from what I was two years prior. The reason for this..... Is God.

Wow, wow, wow, now don’t take the wrong idea here. This is not a conversion story. Not that a conversion story would be wrong or anything, but instead it would be wrong for me to give the impression that I did believe in god, because the reality of the story is... I don’t. However, I still stand by my statement in recognizing that at least the notion of ‘God’ has made a direct impact on me over the last few years. And looking back on it now...I think it’s the Coolest Thing Ever!

Writing With a Paddle; Guest post by Mairi McGuire

Pictured here: Dr. Mike, Canadian Canoe Museum Executive Director James Raffan, Canadian Author Nicolas Dickner, Lakefield College School former Headmaster Terry Guest

This Wednesday, I was awarded the opportunity to attend a reading by award winning author, Nicolas Dicker. Dickner’s book, Nikolski, tells the story of three characters, completely unaware of their relation with one another, as they traverse separately through life. The book was the winner of CBC Canada Reads 2010 and also won the Governor General’s Literary Award for Translation in 2008. The reading was hosted at the beautiful Canadian Canoe Museum in downtown Peterborough. I was fascinated by its ornate features, the fantastical canoes which dotted the museum floor and the pillars of ancient wood which decorated the room. Nicolas Dickner was introduced by the head of Champlain College, Dr. Mike Allcott. In his introduction, Dr. Allcott described Dickner as one who “lives in the extraordinary milieu of the imagination,”, and it was right there, within the beautiful walls of the Canoe museum, that we were invited into the majestic imagination of this wonderful writer.

Jill Battson, Empress of Poetry, World AIDS Day Reading at Champlain Living Learning Commons

I met Jill Battson in a bar in Buffalo, New York in 1989. Great opening line to an introduction, eh? In truth, Jill was there with Adeena Karasick, performing in a reading series for the University at Buffalo Poetics Program. Jill and I connected immediately, as we were both doing poems exploring the intersection of language, desire, pornography and performance. She blessed me by inviting me to perform in Toronto in a Weird Sisters reading along with Adeena and the inimitable Sky Gilbert. She also produced my opus, "The Porno Boy Speaks" for the Toronto Queer Culture Festival in the early '90s.

Since then Jill has achieved remarkable things as a performance poet. She's currently the poet Laureate of Cobourg, Ontario, and the opera based on her latest book, "Dark Star Requiem" opened the Luminato Festival 2010 at the Royal Conservatory of Music. She'll be reading from that book at the Champlain Living Learning Commons for World AIDS Day on Dec 1 at 3 p.m.

Over the past few years, Jill has explored in depth the relationship between spoken word performance, dance, theatre, and opera. She's done remarkable work. Here's a sample of her work with the remarkable choreoghrapher and dancer, D. A. Hoskins. (Jill, D.A., and I produced a work for Peterborough New Dance's Emergency series a few years ago entitled, "Ecce Homo").




CBC Radio 2 will broadcast a recording of the world premiere of "Dark Star Requiem" later in the evening of World AIDS Day. The dramatic oratorio by Jill Battson and composer Andrew Staniland, was co-produced by Tapestry and Luminato, Toronto Festival of Arts and Creativity, for the opening weekend of the 2010 Festival.

The Toronto Star called the oratorio “Artistically adventurous and intellectually provocative” and “exactly the kind of project that the Luminato festival wants to be about.” Classical Music Guide called it, “a ‘tapestry’ quite consistently mesmerizing to the collective senses and conscience of the rapt audience” and “a work of vital . . . lasting, thought-provoking power.” Listeners will be able to follow the text and view production images online at http://www.tapestrynewopera.com/.

Broadcast Details:
December 1, 2010
on The Signal with Laurie Brown
CBC Radio 2
Between 10 pm and midnight EST.

In Memoriam: former Master of Champlain, Jim MacAdam

As many Champlain students know, Noranne and I were very saddened to learn last week of the death of Professor Jim MacAdam, who served as Master of Champlain from 1987 to 1995. Noranne knew him very well, and I was fortunate to have met him during my first term as Head of the college. In fact, he was a part of Champlain life recently, and attended the gala opening of the Champlain Living Learning Commons early in November.

Another previous Master of Champlain, Professor Emeritus John Burbidge, gave remarks at a memorial for Professor MacAdam that was held in the former Champlain Master's Lodge yesterday, November 24, 2010. His remarks included memories shared by Professor Emeritus David Gallop, another colleague from Trent's Philosophy Department. I thought that current Champlain students and readers of this blog would appreciate reading these remarks, not only as a remembrance of an extraordinary leader of our community, but also as a window into the deep history and character of Champlain College. Many thanks to Professors Burbidge and Gallop for sharing this text with us.

JAMES MacADAM 1930-2010

A number of years ago, a young Jim MacAdam enrolled in the MA program in philosophy at Queen's University. In those glorious days, every incoming student was interviewed by the registrar, and so Jim found himself in front of the formidable Jeannie Royce. She looked at his file: “I see that you have been teaching physical education. What made you decide to take up philosophy?” “Well,” Jim replied, “I've had th-th-th-three c-c-c-concussions!”

That little story sums up a number of key features of Jim. In the first place, the fact that he was the butt of his own stories reveals how comfortable he was in his own skin. He was never overwhelmed by adversity, but always faced life with a positive and enthusiastic interest, seeing “the funny side of any situation.” As David Gallop writes: “This extended even to his own severe injury from the car accident in 1988. In recovering from that trauma, and in completing his term as Master of Champlain College, he showed the utmost fortitude and nobility of spirit.”

Second, he was a jock, playing rugby and baseball when he was young; later on, golf in the summer and curling in the winter. When his blunted left hand prevented him from holding the broom to maintain his balance on the curling rink, he would just reach out that arm as far as possible, making an interesting spectacle as he slid down the ice.

Third, he loved philosophy, even more than athletics and, quoting David Gallop again, “was unswerving in his dedication to it and inventive in its teaching. His many bold academic initiatives included the international conference on Jean-Jacques Rousseau at Trent in 1978 which initiated the North American Rousseau Society, the use of 'moots', or 'mock-trials', in philosophy-of-law courses, with collaboration from the legal profession, and two series of lectures on Great Philosophers in the Peterborough Public Library.” After he retired he discovered some unpublished writings of H.A. Prichard, an eminent Oxford philosopher, and edited them into a fine volume, published by Oxford University Press and dedicated “For the Love of my Wife, Elizabeth, and our Children”.

But there are other features that are only implicit in that little story of Jeannie Royce. Jim was committed to undergraduate teaching, maintaining a continual guerilla war against the moves made to establish graduate programs in the humanities. David Gallop: “He probably fitted, better than anyone else at Trent, the image that many people have of 'the true philosopher', a role that he filled in the most endearing fashion. [David} still remember[s] an occasion when Jim was lecturing on Thomas Hobbes, and a pneumatic drill started up right outside the lecture-theatre. He remained quite unfazed, and doggedly plunged ahead with his lecture, despite being completely inaudible for about ten minutes.” Students recall the time when, in a tutorial, he leaned back in his chair to expound on a point and, as the chair continued its arc towards the floor, Jim went on, equally unfazed, with his exposition.

Jim was committed to Champlain College. He had the only office in the university which gives directly on to the river and once, in the middle of a class, he wandered over to the window, where a bell on a fishing rod was jangling, and calmly reeled in a small bass. His interest in all aspects of college life reached its culmination when he was appointed Master in 1987, and Jim and Betty became involved closely with the many and diverse students who made up the college community welcoming them into the warmth of this room.

Finally, and most important, Jim was a friend. I don't mean simply that he was my valued friend, though that is true enough. But he was a friend to the very core of his being. As David says: “He was an ideal mentor for someone new to Trent, because he personified all that the University and its college system stood for.” The young Harry and Caroline Kitchen, uncertain as, for the first time, they approached the Master's Lodge and an initial encounter with the redoubtable William and Peg Morton, were greeted by Jim and Betty and made to feel at home. The two of them, Jim and Betty, were genial and kindly hosts, regularly entertaining supervisees and students over a meal in their home. Jim continued to follow the careers of former students and towards the end was contemplating a visit to Tony Arthur, High Commissioner from the Barbados to the Court of St. James.

Let me conclude with, once again, the words of David Gallop: “When the next history of Trent comes to be written, Jim will surely deserve to be chronicled as one of its most courageous early pioneers. For now, he will be remembered with affection by everyone who was warmed by his friendship and by his generosity of heart.”

--John Burbidge

What is Remembrance Day all about?

I was honoured to be a part of a Remembrance Day ceremony in the Great Hall of Champlain on Thursday morning. It was a privilege to share the podium with a Trent student, Ethan Mcdonald, who is an officer Cadet in the Canadian armed forces. I was very moved by the depth of thought, reflection, feeling, and commitment in the words that he shared that day. I'm grateful that he shared that text with me so that you might read it here.

What is Remembrance Day all about?

When I was young, it was about wearing a little red flower in November. Growing up, it took on a human side; a wrinkly face with white thinning hair and bright eyes despite failing health with age.

Today as I wear this uniform, it means much more and I would like to share this with you.

After taking several history courses in high school and university, I discovered that often, war was waged for political or religious reasons and very often unknown to those whom it consumed. Rarely did it bring what was promised: freedom and a better life for those it affected; and war rarely brought peace.

I was taught that long ago, men went overseas and fought for their home country in the Great War, to bring back peace and victory for the commonwealth. In 1917 our great nation was born under fire in France. Young Canadians took the untakeable at Vimy Ridge and endured the unendurable at Passchendaele, many never leaving Flanders Fields. The armistice took place one year later--the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month 1918. Never again!

In 1939, the nations of the world mobilized once again for another round, this time the Allies were off to fight amongst others, a man named Adolf Hitler and his armies who in a short time, controlled most of Europe. Once again, young Canadians answered the call and scaled the cliffs of Assoro, suffered in Hong Kong and took Juno Beach. Six years later they returned with victory and an uneasy peace. The world learned of the horrors of the holocaust and wept from the devastation. Never again!

For the next 45 years, the world held its breath while Western and Communist armies sparred in remote regions of the world. Canadians held the unholdable at Kapyong and in the 90’s when United Nations peace keeping became the political focus, Canadians in sky blue berets of hope, sat out of a politically incorrect war and watched as millions were murdered in Rwanda. Never again!

I suppose it would sound rather cynical for me to say this and suggest that war has never accomplished anything worth its cost; that by this perhaps, the deeds of veterans are meaningless. If you only focus on the big picture and not what’s in an individual’s heart, this may be all that you believe. However, I do not come to you today to preach on the politics or history of international conflict. My query is much simpler; not why we have war, but why we have warriors?

The truth is, regardless of politics, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or anything else that separates and divides humans or causes war; veterans and soldiers of conflicts past and present serve because they feel a duty. A duty to do all that is in their power to bring peace, freedom and a higher quality of life, to those who are without it. For any individual to take action on their beliefs especially with goals such as these is truly remarkable.

The truth is, even today within this great nation of Canada, there are still thousands who take up this cause. They are deployed to the Middle East, in Afghanistan and other troubled areas around the world. Regardless of their job, they all make a sacrifice, the same as those before them. Leaving their families, their daily lives and country behind and donning the uniform of a Canadian Soldier. All gave some; some 152 of my brothers and sisters gave all, giving their lives for what they believe in.

I can tell you this with absolute certainty today as I don the uniform of a Canadian Soldier as many nineteen year olds have done before me. My profession is that of arms, my job is to fight. Yet my mission is to preserve peace, to ensure freedom and quality of life for all. My mind says “Never again!” but my heart says, “I must do something!”

So today on the eleventh of November, many may ponder the question “What does Remembrance Day mean?” To me, it is a day to remember the conflicts of the past and present, but focusing on the men and women who serve instead of dwelling on politics or the outcome. Remembrance Day is about people, who became soldiers, who went off to war and fought for what they believe in.

Remembrance Day is about those who never made it home. We will remember them.

- A Canadian Soldier.

Michael Sacco: Chocosol Actionist and Champlain Fellow

Michael will be facilitating a World Affairs Colloquium for World Food Day in October.

Nomadic Massive Live in the Great Hall, Sep 24 7 p.m.

Why Nomadic Massive as a kick off event to bring Trent together for a Champlain event?

When Tim Shah (Champlain/Trent alumn, leader of the Trent Global Living Community, and now at UBC doing a Master's in Urban Planning) first contacted Nomadic Massive to see if they would do a performance in the Great Hall on their way to a gig in Toronto, they responded immediately and said that they love to do performances at universities--but . . ."

We might have been worried about the "but" until it was followed by, "we'd also like to do a workshop for social justice". Tim and I were both thrilled because, well, how Trent is that? A cutting edge eleven piece band making the great hall rumble with a multicultural sound--and a message with meaning to make a world of difference? That's a college life I want to be a part of!

When I came to Champlain 7 years ago, I heard many stories about "the old days" of concerts and sweaty dance parties in the Great Hall that brought together the community in ways no other college could. That's one tradition I'd like to sustain--if it gives us opportunities to learn together as this concert will!

Nomadic Massive, live in the Great Hall, with opening band The Resolutionaries, Friday, September 24, 2010, 7 p.m. Get tickets at the Champlain College Office, LEC Office, TIP, The Central or student affairs. Tickets are free with a donation for Pakistan Flood Relief (UNICEF).

Workshop: "Social Justice Through Hip Hop" World Affairs Colloquium in the Champlain Council Chambers (CC M2) at 3 p.m.

College Head Welcome and Tree Planting

On September 7, 2010, Dr. Mike Allcott, Champlain College Head welcomed all new students of Champlain by planting a tree in their honour. If you weren't able to attend, below is the talk he shared with the new students!

Welcome to Trent and welcome to Champlain College.

My academic background is in English Literature and my professional experience has led me to travel and live in more than 20 countries around the world. Both of these things mean that I look for and see meaning in all the different aspects of life. And I think you do, too. Meaning is the value of the things we do, of the friendships we make of the things we learn. The absence of meaning, is well, it’s simply boring. Like going through the motions of a dance that you don’t understand or don’t want to do.

So I wanted to spend this moment of meaning with you, in the hope that we can share a value, not just for this moment, but for the lifespan of this little oak tree. As many of you know, my partner and I were married 6 years ago in this little courtyard of Champlain College, so it has great meaning for me. There was a great willow tree, a love willow, with two trunks entwined in each other right at this spot. Sadly, that tree passed on a few years ago. And that’s one reason I wanted to plant this tree in your honour this week.

This tree was planted for the Trent University and Champlain College class of 2010. That’s you.

And as members of this very special community of learning, we’ll be able to watch the tree grow over the next year or two or three or four (or maybe more). It will be a way for us to measure each other’s growth, witness each other’s progress, and celebrate each other as we grow and become what we’re only brave enough to dream at this point.

Those of us who have a social and environmental consciousness know that planting a tree is an essential act of life and hope. Trees and reforestation not only help to digest the overabundance of Carbon Dioxide produced by our abuse of the earth, they also provide a natural habitat and a healthy diverse ecosystem that helps to sustain other life. Moreover, trees are beautiful: recent studies have showed that people who are able to see trees and their natural environment experience a more peaceful and stress-free life; people who study within sight of trees have higher level of concentration and the ability to focus. As you may know ancient druids found spiritual force in the very existence of trees. And whether you are a spiritual person or a scientific person, maybe there is some actuality in that belief that we have yet to discover.

What do they say about your generation? The first generation to come of age after September 11, 2001. That was a moment that changed the way Americans, but also north Americans thought about our security and being in the world. Your parents may have paid more careful attention to you, to your well-being and to your safety than previous generations.

The researchers call you “Generation Net”, because you have grown up in a world where the internet was not a new phenomenon, but as normal a part of life as milk, maple syrup and MTV.

Researchers say that you have high expectations of University:

That is will truly prepare you for the Future. You trust that university will provide you a safe and supportive environment, in which you will be able to take risks and rise to meaningful challenges. And in which you’ll be able to have a second chance when that risk does not result in success.

You expect university to provide you Mentors. People whose experience you can look up to, and people who can not only help guide you to success, but help connect you to the networks that lead to success.

But you expect those mentors to arise from authentic circumstances—from your real life, not from a competition or one-upsmanship over your peers.

You expect university to challenge you—but not in an environment of merely formulaic tests and exams, but in meaningful challenges. Projects, assignments, opportunities inside and outside the classroom that add to your sense of meaning in life.

Oh, and the researchers say that you expect to have fun. I hope that you will find that Champlain College, the friends you will make here, the mentors you will meet in the authentic day to day life of the college, will meet these lofty expectations of your generation.

There’s another thing that people believe about your generation: They call you Generation O. That’s O for Obama. Social networking, genuine belief that the institutions created by your seniors can be an effective tool for changing the world into the world that you want. That you not only have a social consciousness, but you have the will to participate and the savoir-faire to make things work for you.

We’re planting this tree tonight as a sign of our commitment to each other, to Champlain College. It’s a sign that we will guard and value each other’s expectations, and support each other’s dreams as we grow together over the next years. And we’ll look forward to the moment we can look back with your children when they come to Trent, or that this tree will look back on us from its hundreds of years of life, and appreciate the moment we were at Champlain.

Noranne has a guest book for each of you to sign either tonight, or in the Great Hall throughout the week. I’d like you to put your name there—and if you would, record some word that indicates your dreams or desires for yourself as a member of this community of learning.

Who will you be? Who will you form friendships with? What will you learn? What will you teach? And what will you give to this community? I and the fellows of Champlain look forward to watching you become whomever you will be. Thank you for coming tonight, enjoy your ISW, and welcome the class of 2010 to Champlain College.

In Istanbul, 8,000 Years of History - NYTimes.com

As many Champlain Fellows have research and cultural interest in Turkey and especially Istanbul, I wanted to share this with the college community. Trent faculty in Ancient History & Classics, Politics, Geography, History, Anthropology have research interests in this region. (If there are others, I'd be interested in knowing).

In Istanbul, 8,000 Years of History - NYTimes.com

Canoe Mentor: College Life and Diagonal Networking

Making lasting friendships is one of the key advantages of being a member of a college like Champlain. I think for most students entering Trent, that desire to make new friends is a top priority. And the peer-to-peer community friendships you'll form in university can range from familiar acquaintances to deep friendships, from intimate but fleeting encounters to lifelong partnership.

If peer friendships were the only community opportunity afforded, then Trent and Champlain would be little different from the dormitories or housing you'll find on any campus. But Champlain and the colleges at Trent offer you more. Life in the college means the opportunity to develop learning relationships with professors, teachers, staff, administrators, _and_ other students. All of those relationships are a valuable part of your community life here--and have potential value for you throughout your life.

You know you need mentors. But you'd feel weird about contacting a professor to say, "Hello, I'm looking for a good mentor. Would you be mine?" Any relationship that begins with such linear intentional purpose is always going to feel awkward.

Most of us feel much better when relationships begin in a more organic way. The college can provide that opportunity; the college is an environment for diagonal networking. Seeing your profs and staff in the Great Hall or the Seasoned Spoon at lunch, or attending a workshop or college talk, or even just passing each other in the quad provides a kind of familiarity from which an organic mentoring relationship might grow.

Likewise, working together on college initiatives or extra-curricular activities builds respect and substantial knowledge. Respect and actual knowledge leads to trust. Essentially, that's what networking is: not just adding friends to your Facebook page, but building trusting lines of communication with people. Those lines of trust might lead to: more friendships, business partnerships, employment opportunities, problem solving--and happiness in life.

The canoe is a perfect example of building trust in an utterly Canadian way. We might get into the boat together simply for the purpose of getting to the opposite shore (or maybe just for having some fun on the water). But in the canoe, we're going to learn enough about each other to develop some respect, knowledge, and trust--and that's how we actually make it to the other side.

Wanna go out in the canoe with me? Every Thursday(weather-permitting) from 4 to 6 will be Champlain Tuesday on the Water. Meet at the beach.

Welcome to the Jungle! An intro to Champlain for First Year students

To all first year Champlain students, welcome to Champlain!

At this point, you are most likely packing, saying goodbye to friends, and promising your parents you'll call them every week. It is most definitely an anxious time in your life. You may have traveled prior to this, or you may be coming straight out of high school. You might have some university experience under your belt already. No matter what your background, you are heading towards an exciting new experience. And you are going to experience an amazing residential culture that will enrich and guide you through your university years.

Allow me to quickly introduce myself. My name's Liam. I went to Trent from 2005-2009, and was a Champlainer from my second year to my last. I came into Trent not really knowing what to expect, as a timid 17 year old. Knowing only two other guys from my high school, it was in no way a familiar place. However over the years I met amazing people, learned and laughed and grew. Champlain was a home, and I proudly wear my Champlain patch on my backpack as I walk around UBC's campus in Vancouver.

Bon Temps, February 2009

But enough about me! You are heading toward a great experience. You may be feeling pangs of anxiety, wondering about if you'll meet any friends, or if you'll be able to pass your courses. While this may be a scary time, take comfort in knowing there are hundreds of other students in your shoes! You'll be greeted by upper year students who are just waiting to get to know you and show you around for the first week of Introductory Seminar Week (ISW). Once you get settled into your room, take a few minutes to wander around the residence and meet your floor mates. You will get to know these people very well over the next month, and many of them will become great, life long friends! Moments like these often call for taking a deep, deep breath before taking the plunge into a brand new experience. As long as you carry an open mind and a friendly smile, you will soon find that good friends will surround you no matter where you are on campus.

As for the academics - there are three ground rules you should follow to make the grade:
1. do your readings
2. hand everything thing in on time
3. go to every class and seminar

If you make sure you are doing these three things, you're well on your way! Make sure you take advantage of Trent's small class sizes too. This allows you to get to know your profs and T.A.s by name and vice-versa. Take advantage of their office hours to go over papers and the weeks readings when you are stuck.

While at Champlain, you'll have ample opportunity for getting involved in the community. There are so many things to do campus and college wide, so jump in and try something new! Joining a club, organization, or student government is one of the best ways to establish yourself and meet new friends. The more things you try, the more tied to Champlain and Trent you'll be. Take my word, this is a very special place, and I hope you love it just as much as I do. The friends you make and the stories you tell will be ones to remember for years to come.

Broomball Tournament at Bontemps, February 2009

A new adventure is waiting for you, so as you get ready to travel up highway 7 or the 115, take a deep breath, and get ready! Your ISW staff are getting ready to welcome you to the great Champlain College. So welcome to the jungle, 'aint no place like it.

Champlain Beach, 2006

Perspective on Champlain College from the New College Head

I’ve been a fellow of Champlain since I came to Trent University in 2003. Being a part of the community of faculty, staff and student members of the college, being involved in academic advising and college events, has been very valuable to me. Mainly I value the students whom it has been my pleasure to mentor, either through the Trent Global Living Community, the International Program (TIP), Trent Reads seminars, leadership work, or college activities. Students’ success is what makes my academic life meaningful.

Many of my Champlain and Trent colleagues were a part of a very important moment of my life: my partner and I were married in the cedar-lined courtyard between the Great Hall and the river in July of 2004. Yes, it was a beautiful spot for a wedding, but it was all the more memorable because our friends and families from around the world were welcomed here by our new Trent colleagues and friends.

The spirit of Champlain distinguishes us from the other Trent colleges, and from other colleges I’ve experienced. (At Cambridge University in England, I lived in both Selwyn and Newnham, where I was also a summer resident tutor). Champlain includes a remarkable range of people and perspectives, so it is no wonder that we’re known for being ready to voice our critical perspectives on significant issues. We’re also known for being fearless about taking a stand on controversial issues. And, perhaps because of the tradition of the Lumberjacks broomball team, or because it was Champlainers who pioneered this Trent campus when they moved in during the grey winter days of 1967, we have a reputation for being rugged and adventurous.

Champlain is inclusive of many characters and inspirations. The International Program’s (www.trentu.ca/tip) presence here, as well as The Seasoned Spoon café (www.trentu.ca/stuorg/seasonedspoon) ensure that the dynamism of Trent’s diversity is at the heart of college life.

Collegiality is a core principle of this learning community. College Fellows set Champlain’s collegial tone through the TRIPS (Trans-disciplinary Research In Progress Seminar). These faculty seminars bring together professors and instructors from across the interdisciplinary spectrum of the university to supportively share and develop research. Produced by the International Development Studies department, TRIPS provides faculty an opportunity to present their work-in-progress in order to gain the perspective and analytic insight of colleagues and peers.

The presence of departments like IDS, Politics, and Ancient History and Classics, also distinguishes the college. With that mix of globally-oriented departments, spanning the arts and social sciences, it was no accident that TIP was welcomed into the college as a part of a vision for internationalizing the experience of our entire community. Fellows from History, Anthropology, Environmental Resource Studies, Biochemistry and other science departments ensure our dynamism. Likewise, integral to a vision of the college as both a residence and a community of learning for students and faculty who live elsewhere, the Trent Global Living Community was established at Champlain; TGLC is not only a model for success for other LLC’s at Trent, but has a strong alumni tradition, with successful former residents all around the world. Likewise, the Active Living Community and La Maison Francaise are poised to lead the college in engagement and co-curricular learning.

My experience is that Champlain is home to people who like to accomplish things, whether those things are academic, athletic, social, or service to the world. We’re doers. That spirit harkens to a strong line in the tradition of liberal arts and sciences education: we are inspired by idealism, motivated to think critically and research carefully—and we are fully engaged in the real world. As the head of the college, I look forward to cultivating and supporting that spirit, and to fulfilling the potentials of this unique community of learning through engaging the interests and energies of the students and fellows of Champlain.

Let me know if you think I'm hearing and perceiving the Champlain you know!

It's only 23 sleeps away...

I am not sure how the rest of you readers feel but it feels as though the summer has just flown right by. Many of you will be starting a new school year at Trent. Whether it's your first year, or it's your fourth, you are about to start a new year of challenges, laughs and memories at an amazing university. I am currently arriving back to my home in Ajax and for the first time in 4 years, it feels very different because I know I will not be returning to Trent and to my home Champlain College this fall.

This fall I will be starting at a new school, in a new city, with only a few friends. So many of the newcomers to the university I am sure can appreciate some of these feelings. We all embark on new beginnings but these beginnings are marked by epic endings. I had the best 4 years of my life at Trent and especially in the college that is home of the wild. What I now know is that Trent University prepared me to open the next chapter in my life, just as many of your high schools have done for you. Even though my time at Trent has come to a close, I know that it will always be a part of where I come from. As many of you are packing up your rooms at home, and are looking for memories to bring with you, don't forget about the new memories that you will create as soon as you get to Trent.

Some of my best memories at Trent University come from Introductory Seminar Week (ISW). This is the first time in 4 years that I am not gearing up for ISW, nor will I have the privilege to participate in it. ISW is the time when you meet some of your closest friends and people who could become your lifelong friends. My message to the newcomers is make sure you participate in at least one activity. Whether you go to the Great Race, High Table Dinner, you go to every cheer off, or you are the first one up and last one in bed each day, try to make it out to ISW because it could be the place that marks your first and best memories of Trent.

I hope you all will enjoy your last 23 days at home. I know that my summer before I started my Undergrad was the best summer of my life because it was the closing of an epic chapter and the marking of a magnificent beginning. As I write this towards the end of my summer of my Undergrad, I am experiencing many of the same emotions because it means I am closing another epic chapter and I am about to embark on a brand new and exciting beginning in Ottawa. Good Luck to everyone in their first few weeks of school, I hope you all will fall in love with Champlain as many of us have!

Trent's DSO department

Trent DSO department and New Students

As a student registered with the Disability Services Office (DSO) at Trent, I would like my first blog to be on the topic of the disabilities and other student support services.

In my last year of high school I was diagnosed with dyslexia and even though my disability hadn’t prevented me from continuing my studies towards a post-secondary education, it most definitely presented a hindered potential for a positive educational experience at University.

In my first week at Trent, I booked a number of appointments with the DSO, because I didn’t have a clue about how my disability could function in a university environment. This was probably one of the best decisions as a student I could have made, because the DSO staff knew exactly how to compensate for my disability and provide the greatest effect for my success at school.

My grades have improved at university from the days when I was in high school and I can only imagine that is was partially due to the help from the Trent Disability Services office.

Incoming students or continuing students who have a recognized disability or believe they might have a disability, should take the time in the first week of school to book an appointment with the DSO. The faculty members are there to support Trent Students and if you feel hindered in your education, take advantage in what services the school can provide.

I can only describe my personal experiences with the Department; it very much services the school in a a positive way. If anyone has any questions don’t feel shy to send me an email.

Trent’s disabilities website link:

http://www.trentu.ca/disabilityservices/

The Collegiate Way

Dr. Robert O’Hara, Professor of Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University, has a website called The Collegiate Way.

"The Collegiate Way seeks to improve campus life by creating small, faculty-led residential colleges within large universities. It’s the leading resource on the worldwide residential college movement."

While Trent is a small university, it nonetheless has a college system. Dr. O'Hara's website has lots of great information about University Colleges from around the world including those at Harvard, Oxford and Yale to name a few.

Trent's colleges are featured on his website with some information regarding history and architectural inspiration.

Champlain College (and other colleges at Trent) are unique and different than the colleges from Harvard and Yale. Indeed, Trent's colleges are more than just residential colleges. Champlain specifically fosters inclusivity and will continue to grow as a community of students, alumni, college admin and faculty who live on campus, off-campus and around the world.

Living Learning Communities: A Pulse of Champlain Life

Beyond Harvest Weekend, the Pig Bowl, High Table Dinner, floor hockey tournaments, and the Ceilie are an ongoing collage of events known as Trent’s Living Learning Communities (LLCs). These Living Learning Communities are just another way to get involved at Trent University, and certainly contribute to the diversity and strength of Champlain College. Luckily, Champlain College is home to three of these communities – Active Living, Global Living and the newest to the College, La Maison Française. The benefits of living in one of these communities are unlimited, and each opportunity is what you make of it. The most important thing to note about LLCs is that you do not have to attend everything, but if you can, you will be met with intellectually challenging discussions with faculty, fun activities, and a range of conversations with your peers.

My experience with Trent’s Global Living Community (TGLC) was very positive. TGLC is a community composed of students who unite under an interest in global citizenship, diversity, and world affairs. Although I did not get to live in TGLC, the tower quickly became my new home. This is something that is not well known about Living Learning Communities. No matter what tower you’re in, you can participate. Even if you’re not in either community, I highly recommend joining in on some of the events to get a taste of something new. You will find something that interests you. Tim, one of the bloggers here, was the Don of TGLC in my year. He did a phenomenal job with TGLC programming and always made me feel included even though I was not registered in TGLC. He worked very hard and I can only thank him for allowing me the opportunity of so many fun discussions and friendships.

Some of the activities that TGLC offers are exclusive lectures and talks with visiting professors, workshops with Trent professors, many catered Seasoned Spoon lunches and dinners, games nights, and a true circle of friends. It is one thing to attend a Gaza teach-in, but it is another when you’re surrounded by the people whom you’ve talked about Gaza with all year. TGLC also serves an immense study benefit to review for exams and midterms with people who have attended the same activities as you, are studying the same courses, and who live close to you. Lastly, you may have one group of friends separate from your LLC, but you always have this bond with your LLC members. They are where your home is. Living in an LLC means that you will never be lonely and there will always be something going on in the tower that you can be involved in. Making these quick and immediate friendships that an LLC offers creates endless possibilities for fun for the rest of the year.

I know that the July 31^st application deadline for LLCs is approaching, so I highly recommend that anyone should join in on this positive experience. It is one of the experiences from first year that I would relive over and over again. The friendships that I have made, the knowledge I’ve acquired, and the unique experiences that TGLC presented truly makes Living Learning Communities one of the highlights of my first year, and certainly adds a huge impact to the pulse of Champlain College.

Welcome to YOUR next Milestone

Exactly four years ago today, I was sitting in a hot and crowed gymnasium awaiting and anticipating the excitement of receiving my High School Diploma. I thought that once I received that piece of paper, my life was over. No more friends, no more ISUs, no more memories to last me a life time. But what I hadn't realized was that it was only the beginning.

By the end of August 2006, I was feeling more excited about moving to school. I remember the feelings of excitement and uncertainty with what would come. After I had settled into my residence room and said goodbye to my parents, I went down into the Quad. Outside there were a large group of excited and energetic students greeting all the new students...just like me! They wanted to know everything about all the new students. They also encouraged me to come out to various activities hosted by the college and university over the week.

Introductory Seminar Week (ISW) was a huge part of my university career at Trent. ISW in my first year, was especially important as a new student.It allowed me to check out all the classes I was signed up for, the classes I wanted to take, and last but not least, how to have fun! It was through ISW that I met some of the people whom I have been friends to this day.

In my second year, I wanted to help new students just like the staff members helped me in my first year. It was through my involvement with ISW as a staff member, I was able to continue to branch out in supporting the college that I will always love dearly through my extra-curriculars.

As my 4 years have come to an end at Trent, and more so in Champlain, one thing I will always hold and offer as advice to any student coming to Trent is take part in ISW, and more importantly find something you love to do and don't give up on it; it will lead you to new opportunities and perhaps allow you try something out of your regular comfort zone.

"Reach for the moon and if you miss you'll land among the stars"---Les Brown

Ever heard of Nomadic Massive?

Nomadic Massive is a Montreal-based band. The song displayed above, "Moving Forward" is one of their recent and very famous pieces. It would be really awesome if we brought them to Champlain/Trent one of these days. Their interest in facilitating social change via performances and workshops, creating awareness over international issues, dedication to open-mindedness and their multi-cultural appeal would make for a perfect fit in Champlain or the University in general. The group is quite popular internationally. They have initiated socio-cultural exchanges with like-minded artists all over the world.

Del F. Cowie writes:

"Montreal’s Nomadic Massive are probably one of the most aptly named bands around. Boasting 12 members and vocalists that rap and sing in five different languages (English, French, Spanish, Creole and Arabic), Nomadic Massive provide a truly multicultural listening experience. Predictably, with such a diverse number of influences in a group made up of artists who were previously pursuing solo careers, the album’s musical approach rarely settles into one groove. Incorporating their diverse cultural backgrounds, Nomadic Massive successfully transfer traditional musical forms to hip-hop’s intrinsically syncretic approach with polished production skills."

Overall, they look like a pretty dynamic band and would be excellent for Champlain.

The Value of University Residential Colleges

This past February, Trent University's Ashley Fellowship was awarded to Dr. Don Markwell. Dr. Markwell is the Warden of Rhodes House, Oxford University. He is responsible for the Rhodes Scholarships around the world. The Ashley Fellowship is funded by a bequest from the late Professor C.A. Ashley, longtime friend of Trent University and an enthusiastic proponent of the role that the informal contacts of College life can play in the academic pursuits of the University.

Dr. Markwell was at Trent for about two weeks and delivered three public events including a lecture, a panel and colloquium. I was fortunate to attend all three. While all three lectures were highly interesting and full of insight, the relevant one that I will briefly discuss was titled "The Value of University Residential Colleges". The lecture had an impressive response panel featuring Thomas H.B Symons, Founding President of Trent University. John Fraser, Master of Massey College, University of Toronto. Susan Wurtele, Professor of Geography and Trent University Alumna and finally, Julia Harrison, Professor and Director of the Frost Centre for Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies.

For those that attended this lecture, I am sure they walked away as satisfied and informed as I was. You can access a copy of the lecture here.

Markwell is huge proponent of the residential college system. In his speech, he cited a number of universities that have recently revitalized their colleges including Princeton, Yale, Rice, Harvard and Oxford University. He spoke about the renaissance in the college system as even more universities have started to establish, plan and expand internal systems of residential colleges.

Markwell revealed that through his own observations, "colleges provide one of the best potential environments for encouraging mutually rewarding connection between students from many different cultures and countries – but such positive interactions do not just happen by chance, and leadership within colleges is needed to encourage them and create good preconditions for them".

He referred to a quote by Alan Gilbert (Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester) that summed up his lecture quite nicely:

"the kinds of multilayered, close knit, highly interactive learning communities that good university colleges and halls of residence create are likely to remain among the hallmarks of any great undergraduate educational experience."

I would encourage everyone to read through his lecture which I found to be very informative, topical and critical for Trent University's college system.

Our College: Champlain

Champlain College was designed by an architect named Ron Thom. The College first opened in 1965 as Trent University's first residential and teaching college on Symons campus of the University on the northern edge of Peterborough. The name of the college honours Samuel de Champlain, the great explorer, adventurer and founder of New France. It is located on the banks of the Otonabee River, overlooking the waters which Champlain himself descended 350 years ago, in the autumn of 1615, in his expedition through Huronia to the Iroquois country south of the Great Lakes. Champlain is vibrant and exciting, full of great people and wonderful traditions.