Trent University Inspires Future Scientists through Annual Science Fair
Alumni contributions shine at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair
April 9, 2025
Trent University inspires future scientists through the Peterborough Regional Science Fair (PRSF), which took place at the Peterborough campus on April 8. Since its founding in 1970, the PRSF has received unwavering support from Trent alumni, staff, and faculty.
Held annually on Trent’s campus, the PRSF brings together hundreds of elementary and high school students to showcase their experiments and compete for awards totaling $15,000, including opportunities to advance to the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF).
The late Dr. Raymond March, Trent Chemistry professor emeritus, collaborated with community members to establish the PRSF. What began as a modest competition has since blossomed into a prestigious event, sending up to five students to the CWSF each year.
From Student Competitors to Lifelong Contributors
Inspired by the innovative laboratories and spaces at Trent, past competitors have continued their education at Trent and offer ongoing support to the Fair:
• Sarah Langer '09 (Champlain College), a two-time national participant earning bronze and silver medals who now serves as the PRSF vice-chair and judge coordinator
• Jacob Bowman ’20 (Gzowski College), a three-time national competitor who continues to volunteer for the Fair
• Frances Emery, the PRSF’s most consistent participant with 11 consecutive entries who competed at the CWSF and is now studying Indigenous Environmental Studies at Trent
• Jessica Livingstone, who was awarded a $1,000 Trent entrance scholarship through PRSF, went on to earn bronze at the national level. Jessica is now a fourth-year Trent student in the Ecological Restoration program and currently serves as the PRSF administrative assistant.
Faculty and Staff Dedicated to Fair’s Success
There are many other strong University connections including Trent instructor Sumiko Polacco ’12 (Champlain College) who currently plays a key role as Chair and is the former PRSF treasurer and judge coordinator. Shawna Corcoran ’14 (Traill College), a staff member in the Trent School of the Environment, is the PRSF treasurer.
PRSF committee members who are faculty and staff include Dr. Neil Emery, Dr. Brian Patrick, Smolly Coulson ’04 (Otonabee College), Dr. Erin Morrison ’03 (Traill College), Cassandra DeFrancesco ’13 (Traill College), and Craig Murray ’99 (Champlain College).
Learn more about the Peterborough Regional Science Fair that sparks scientific curiosity and strengthens the bond between Trent University and the local community.