Steven E. Franklin

Dr. Steven E. Franklin served as the President and Vice-Chancellor of Trent University from 2009 to 2014. Prior to this, he held academic and administrative roles, including Vice President of Research at the University of Saskatchewan. After his presidential term, he returned to Trent in 2015 to focus on teaching and research in environmental remote sensing within the Departments of Geography and Environmental Resource Science/Studies. He holds a B.E.S. and Ph.D. in Environmental Remote Sensing from the University of Waterloo.

His research interests include interdisciplinary environmental science, remote sensing applications in terrain analysis and wildlife conservation, particularly in studying grizzly bear habitats and biodiversity management. He has authored over 120 refereed journal articles and four books, including Remote Sensing for Biodiversity and Wildlife Management.

During his tenure as President, Franklin led initiatives to strengthen Trent's academic programs, expand campuses, and enhance financial stability. Notable achievements include the launch of the University's first Integrated Plan, the opening of the Life and Health Sciences Building, and the Trent Community Sport and Recreation Centre. He also oversaw program expansions such as Sustainable Agriculture and Social Work degrees.

Franklin has received prestigious awards, including the Canadian Remote Sensing Society Gold Medal (2007), Sustainability Award from the Canadian Institute of Mining (2007), and the Canadian Forest Service Merit Award (2006). His research has been supported by grants like the NSERC Collaborative Research and Development funding.

He has mentored over 100 students and researchers, contributing to Trent's academic community. His leadership extended to international collaborations, including partnerships with institutions in China and Guyana. Franklin remains committed to advancing interdisciplinary environmental studies and undergraduate education.