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Trent University has announced the appointment of Dr. Mark Skinner as interim provost and vice-president, Academic, effective June 1st.
Skinner will succeed Dr. Michael Khan, who is set to assume the presidency of Saint Mary’s University in July 2025.
Under Dr. Khan’s tenure as provost and vice-president, Academic, Trent saw significant progress in program innovation, international expansion, and experiential learning. His departure marks the transition of leadership to Dr. Skinner, a seasoned academic with extensive experience in Trent’s academic mission and administration.
Dr. Skinner, who has served as dean of Humanities and Social Sciences since 2018, has played a key role in faculty renewal, program development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His leadership within Trent’s largest academic division has helped strengthen the university’s academic offerings and support faculty and student success.
“Dr. Skinner’s extensive experience and commitment to advancing Trent’s academic excellence make him ideal to lead as Provost and VP Academic,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “As a leader, researcher, and educator, he has long been a champion for student success, faculty scholarship, innovative programming and community engagement. We look forward to his leadership in this interim role as we continue to build on Trent’s strong academic foundation.”
Dr. Skinner has been a faculty member at Trent since 2006, serving as a geography professor and holding multiple leadership positions, including as founding director of the Trent Centre for Aging & Society and Canada Research Chair in Rural Aging. As dean, he collaborated closely with Dr. Khan to enhance academic programs in humanities, social sciences, and business. His contributions to university initiatives include Trent’s pioneering Indigenous course requirement and the research and teaching agreement central to the future Seniors Village project.
“I love the Trent community and believe strongly in the values that nurture and sustain our exceptional student learning experience,” said Dr. Skinner. “I look forward to leading and supporting our inspiring faculty as we continue to create opportunities for students to explore their interests, expand their horizons and succeed in building meaningful and impactful careers.”
Dr. Skinner will serve in the interim role as Trent prepares for a comprehensive search to appoint a permanent provost and vice-president, Academic.
