Trent University Welcomes Naomi Handley as New Director Alumni Engagement & Services

Handley brings more than 15 years of experience to the role overseeing programs and services for more than 60,000 Trent alumni across the world 

October 23, 2023

Trent University is pleased to announce the appointment of Naomi Handley as the next director of Alumni Engagement & Services.

Handley brings more than 15 years of award-winning experience in the university sector, including the last 12 years as the Director, Advancement, University College at University of Toronto. During this time, she was responsible for the strategic direction of the college’s fundraising, alumni relations, and communications portfolios. Handley led the college to raise more than $50 million towards its campaign goals. When creating new programming, she was also responsible for implementing, in collaboration with her Indigenous colleagues, increased Indigenous content.

“We are delighted to welcome Naomi to Trent University. Her extensive track record and proven success in alumni engagement and advancement, along with her experience in helping create Indigenous-focused content strongly aligns with Trent’s values,” says Sherry Booth ’98, associate vice-president, Philanthropy & Alumni. “Naomi’s leadership will build upon our outstanding alumni programs and services, support the Campaign for Momentous Change, and continue our tradition of excellence at Trent University.”

In her previous role, Handley led the creation and implementation of a robust alumni engagement strategy that enhanced relationships with the 28,000 contactable alumni. Additionally, she worked extensively to engage volunteers in various aspects of college life including career mentorship, speaking engagements, and alumni award ceremonies. Her creative and strategic work has been recognized numerous times by The Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education (CCAE) Prix d’Excellence Awards and District Awards.

Prior to working for the University of Toronto, Handley was Director of Communication, Development, Alumni Relations, College of Arts and Science for the University of Saskatchewan. She has also worked as the Manager of Fundraising and Marketing at the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Saskatchewan branch.

Handley recently moved to Fenelon Falls to be closer to family and is deepening her understanding of Indigenous history and affairs by currently taking an Indigenous Canada Course.

“I am so excited to be joining the Trent community and to start working with the University’s outstanding alumni who inspire me by leading momentous progress in so many different sectors worldwide,” Handley says. “While looking into this role, I was particularly struck by Trent’s values – specifically how this institution encourages individuality, Indigenous ways of knowing, social justice and global citizenry. These align perfectly with my personal values.”

All Trent alumni are invited to meet Naomi at the Trent University Alumni Association annual general meeting on Saturday, November 18 from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. Make sure to register for this hybrid event that will be held in-person in the AJM Smith Room, 107.2 of the Bata Library on Symons campus and online via Zoom.