More students will have the opportunity to pursue global research and hands-on learning thanks to a first-of-its-kind fund led by the Trent University Office of the President.   

The newly established David Morrison Fund for Global Studies, made possible through the generosity of Trent University professors emeriti Dr. David Morrison and Dr. Alena Heitlinger, will provide support to upper-year undergraduate and graduate students from any academic backgrounds who pursue research or hands-on learning experiences with an international focus.   

“Through this fund, Professors Morrison and Heitlinger are leaving a lasting legacy - one that reflects their lifelong commitment to international education, consequential research, and to broadening our understanding of global challenges,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice chancellor of Trent University. “This gift will continue to inspire and support generations of Trent students in their pursuit of knowledge and discovery.” 

By assisting with finances, the fund encourages students to immerse themselves in global issues, deepen their understanding of diverse cultures, address real-world challenges, and expand their academic and professional horizons.  

"Alena and I are pleased to provide support for students to undertake research or participate in experiential learning with an international or global focus," said Prof. Morrison. "The fund builds on Trent's longstanding commitment to examine critically issues beyond Canada's borders. We hope that beneficiaries will gain new perspectives that will inform whatever they end up doing in Canada or abroad."  

A long-time member of Trent’s Politics Department, Prof. Morrison is widely recognized for his leadership in advancing global education. He was the founding chair of Trent’s International Development Studies Department and has played a pivotal role in shaping Trent’s international outlook. Over the years, he has held numerous leadership roles including acting Trent president, provost and dean of arts and science, and director of the Trent International Program.   

His commitment to global engagement has extended well beyond Canada. He taught at the University of Zambia in the early 1970s. Among his publications is a book exploring the history of Canada's international development assistance program. He directed several global development initiatives, including a CIDA-funded watershed restoration project in Ecuador and Mexico. He is also a past president of the Canadian Association for the Study of International Development.  

After retiring from Trent, Professor Morrison continued volunteering with Horizons of Friendship, an NGO that works with local organizations and communities throughout Central America and southern Mexico.  He filmed and edited several educational videos and served on the board, including two years as president.  

Dr. Alena Heitlinger, a respected scholar in Trent’s Sociology Department, has built a distinguished academic career exploring issues of feminism, migration, health, and ethnicity. Born in the former Czechoslovakia, she has written eight books and numerous scholarly articles examining social issues across a wide array of countries including Canada, the UK, the Czech Republic, the Soviet Union, and Australia.      

Interested in applying for this fund? Stay tuned for upcoming details on the application process from the Office of the President.  Learn more about the Momentous Campaign that is supporting student success.