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PR alumna returns to communicate three pieces of advice with grads at Fall Convocation

ALUMNI GUEST SPEAKER PROFILE: RACHAEL WRAITH

Durham College (DC) alumna Rachael Wraith brings her public relations education together with 17 years of strategic communications, public engagement, and reputation management experience to her role as Associate Vice President of Strategic Communications at Global Public Affairs – Canada’s largest privately-held public affairs firm.

Before joining Global, Rachael served as the Manager of Corporate Communications for the Town of Ajax, one of Ontario’s fastest-growing municipalities. Rachael’s understanding of the municipal sector provides key insights into the issues and challenges facing local government. Her efforts in a previous role at an environmental non-governmental organization awarded her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 25 Environmentalist under 25 from 2011 to 2013.

Rachael used the skills and discipline she acquired during her education at DC to springboard a successful career in communications. After graduation, she brought her industry expertise to the Program Advisory Committee to help shape the evolution of the college’s public relations program.

During this year’s Fall Convocation, Rachael was invited to share words of wisdom and inspiration with the Class of 2024 as a guest speaker.

What did you enjoy most about being a DC student?

What I enjoyed most about being a DC student was the incredible faculty. I had the privilege of learning from industry leaders, top-tier journalists, and communications experts who were genuinely invested in my success and educational journey. My program provided a blend of theory and real-world experience and allowed me to explore my own creativity and interests.

Can you describe how your time in the PR & Strategic Communications program prepared you for your career?

At DC, I immersed myself in the program, engaged with my professors, and connected with my peers. I credit my program head Lynn Gough for preparing me for the industry. Her unwavering dedication and passion for her student’s success was evident each day. Lynn’s high standards and commitment to quality helped lay the foundation for my strong work ethic. Those experiences honed my skills and my character. They taught me not only about my field of study but also about the power of community and collaboration.

What does a typical day at work look like for you?

A typical day at work for me involves being a trusted advisor to industry leaders across various sectors. I focus on reputation management, digital strategy, crisis communications, and campaign development. I also lead a team of talented professionals, and collaborate with some of Canada’s brightest minds, which is both a privilege and an inspiration.

You previously served as Chair on the PR and Strategic Communications Program Advisory Committee. What inspired you to give back to DC with your time and what did you gain from this experience?

I’m deeply passionate about our industry and the emerging leaders of tomorrow. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors who shared their wisdom and guided me at crucial moments. Giving back is important to me, whether through serving on the advisory committee, guest lecturing, or mentoring placement students. I strive to be an ambassador for both the program and DC as a whole, helping to shape the future of our field.

What is your favourite memory or lesson from DC?

My favorite memory from Durham College was our final project—a mock media launch. My team collaborated with War Child and brought in local musicians for the event. This experience allowed me to blend my newly acquired skills with my passion for music, reaffirming that I was on the right path and igniting my excitement for the future. Since then, I’ve executed hundreds of media launches, press conferences and media availabilities.

What is your advice to new graduates?

I have three key pieces of advice.

Stay curious, seek knowledge, and be open to new experiences. At DC, you have been equipped with skills and training that will serve you well into your career, but your education shouldn’t stop here. The world is constantly evolving, and so should you.

Cultivate and appreciate “your people.” Building a strong network isn’t about collecting contacts like followers; it’s about creating and maintaining meaningful relationships.

Empower a healthy mind and body. Prioritize your well-being as an equal indicator of your success. Don’t forget to take care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally. Seek to find balance in your life. Make time for self-care. Pursue your personal passions. All your endeavours will be made better when you can bring your full self forward.

DC now offers a Public Relations graduate certificate, which prepares graduates to master the art of communicating in today’s digital age.

Prioritizing Indigenization inside and outside the classroom

For Durham College’s (DC) Faculty of Media, Art & Design (MAD), actively embedding Indigenous perspectives and knowledge directly into program curriculum is critical to fostering a learning environment that honours and reflects the voices of Indigenous communities.

“Our goal is to provide students with opportunities to engage with Indigenous perspectives in a meaningful way,” says Barry Waite, Executive Dean, Faculty of MAD, DC. “Whether through podcasting, international collaborations, or coursework, we want to ensure students gain a deep understanding of Indigenous viewpoints and experiences, and how to share these stories responsibly.”

One way is through Enactus DC, where students recently produced a podcast series, Founder’s Drive, aimed at highlighting the stories of young Indigenous entrepreneurs. This project, celebrated at the Enactus Canada Regional Exposition, not only amplifies Indigenous voices but also inspires students by showcasing the potential of social entrepreneurship in Indigenous communities.

Navraj Sandhar, a recent graduate from DC’s Journalism and Creative Writing program, was the project lead for season two of Founder’s Drive, and said it was an eye-opening journey in many ways. “The Indigenous focus of this season intrigued me from the very beginning. I had the privilege of learning directly from community leaders during our trips to Akwesasne territory and the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto,” he said. “Each conversation taught me more about Indigenous ways of thinking and learning, like how entrepreneurship can be used as a tool for preserving traditions, supporting the community, and creating something that lasts for future generations.”

Looking forward to its next Faculty Lead Classroom Abroad (FLCA) trip this fall, Waite reflected on DC’s FLCA trip to Guatemala last October, where students worked alongside Mayan youth to create and share stories about Indigenous rights in Canada and Guatemala. “The trip not only broadened students’ worldviews but also allowed them to witness firsthand the importance of storytelling in Indigenous cultures,” he adds.

Additionally, first-year students in DC’s Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program take the course Indigenous Perspectives in Contemporary Media, which addresses the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, particularly around the role of media. This is further complemented by the Journalism – Mass Media program, where students explore impactful storytelling with Indigenous communities through elective courses.

“Indigenous content isn’t just an addition to our programs,” Waite says. “It’s an essential part of preparing students to be culturally aware and socially responsible communicators.  It also reflects our commitment to meeting Recommendation 86 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that calls on media schools to provide robust education about the experience of Indigenous peoples in Canada.”

These initiatives within DC’s Faculty of MAD contribute to the college’s broader mission to equip students with the tools to engage with reconciliation efforts meaningfully, and as storytellers, ensuring that Indigenous voices are not only heard but also respected and amplified.

Durham College is dedicated to advancing truth and reconciliation by weaving Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the fabric of our campus. Explore this content collection to learn about the resources, supports and opportunities that are available on campus.

Photo Credit: Founders Drive