HISTORY

Trent University has offered courses in Oshawa since 1974.  In 2009, Trent University announced plans to construct a designated satellite campus in the city, moving away from the Durham College/UOIT campus where it had offered the majority of its courses previously. After a series of exciting and fruitful meetings with students, faculty, and staff, Trent University Durham-GTA, (formerly Trent University Oshawa), established the direction and long-term plan for the new campus.  In 2010, Trent University Durham-GTA relocated to 55 Thornton Road South, which was once St. Michael's Catholic School.

Historically, Trent students attending university at the DC/UOIT campus were represented by "YOURSA". During the transition to the new campus, it became evident that Trent Durham students required their own student association. The Trent in Oshawa Student Association, now called the Trent Durham Student Association, was formed by a committee of students, faculty, and administrators and became incorporated in 2010, establishing the corporation's bylaws and policies.  

Since TDSA's inception, student leaders have worked with members of the campus community and Region of Durham to grow and positively impact the student experience. In collaboration with the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA), TDSA has worked with municipal and provincial leaders to advocate for students needs both locally and province wide. Recognition of TDSA has expanded by the efforts of numerous individuals and external groups, not least of all its dedicated Executives and Directors since 2010. 

Since 2019, the TDSA has been in another considerable period of transition along with the growing population. From 2019 to 2022, the TDSA has moved location within the campus twice. With campus growth, considerable efforts were placed to broaden TDSA's scope by joining the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA) as an observer member, to see what potential it had in federal advocacy.

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MISSION

PRINCIPLES   

• To provide a high level of assistance to our members through advocacy and services to give students a greater sense of empowerment and encourage involvement in University affairs, which shall assist in the development of University pride;
• To provide a forum to discuss issues of importance to our members and maximize communication of events and issues throughout Trent University in Oshawa;
• To facilitate and provide an environment where in our members can pursue academic excellence as well as personal and social growth free from all forms of discrimination, harassment, oppression and persecution;
• To encourage and support student clubs, organizations, and societies thereby increasing the vitality of student life and the diversity of activities available to students of Trent University in Oshawa;
• To pursue and encourage a high level of education for all members of the association

• The right to establish and maintain a democratic student government in which each student shall have an equal right to participate, and with provision for advisory referendum;
• To be accountable, dedicated, and available to all members of the association so that they feel comfortable approaching executive to be their advocate in any matter relating to their education, campus community, or government when pertaining to student affairs;
• The right in the classroom to full freedom of expression, discussion, and inquiry related to the course while respecting the rights and learning experiences of other students, and the right to be evaluated based solely on academic performance;
• The right to enjoy the same privileges and opportunities as any other student  without discrimination or prejudice regarding the student’s race, creed, colour, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, religious views or affiliations, political views or affiliations, marital status, or condition of disability.

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