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‘It’s not just about the technology, it’s how we’re going to change the world with it’: The powerful impact of GenAI on how we live and work

Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) — including ChatGPT – is a game changer on the scale of the internet and Durham College (DC) is embracing that change and exploring how it’s going to impact us in the world of work and beyond through active discussions and research.

On November 22, the DC Alumni Association held a discussion called ‘GenAI: The Power of Infinite Possibilities’. The event was hosted by DC president Don Lovisa and professor Lon Appleby and is available via The Rotary Global Classroom. Panelists included three DC graduates who work with GenAI as well as Amanda Maknyik, associate dean of Teaching, Learning and Program Quality at DC.

Maknyik explained that GenAI is a branch of artificial intelligence.

“It’s unique in the fact that it learns and it can actually create unique new content so that content can be in text form, it can be graphical format, it can be videos, it can be music, it can be any number of things,” she said. “It differs from artificial intelligence in that it learns from the user.”

Roop Gill is part of the commercial team at Sanctuary AI, a company whose mission it is to create the world’s first human-like intelligence in general-purpose robots. She is also an alumna of DC’s Chemical Laboratory Technician program and she was enthusiastic about the topic of GenAI.

“It’s like being part of this exciting science fiction movie but it’s real life,” said Gill. “It’s not just about the technology, it’s how we’re going to change the world with it.”

Computer Programming and Analysis graduate Shane Graham said the development of GenAI is as revolutionary as the internet and everyone is going to be using it.

As director of software engineering at Invyzn, a company that handles fleet management solutions including vehicle tracking and big data, he said he uses GenAI on a daily basis for things like writing code, planning projects or even writing emails to save time.

“What I found was for higher level things, it worked exceptionally well, so writing up scope of work documents, writing API documentation, even planning — it could plan a project pretty well and then I’d just overview it and approve it essentially,” said Graham adding that it was saving him a great deal of time.

“In the beginning I was a little worried about using it for code as well, same with the people at my company, but we’re finding that we can easily build out small scripts where it wouldn’t be perfect, but it would get us to a point where we could then go in and manipulate it to exactly what we want.”

GenAI is expected to fundamentally change the skills workers need to succeed in their career. AI can’t be creative like the human mind so the key factor in harnessing the power of it is engineering prompts to generate valuable outputs.

“AI isn’t here to take away jobs, rather it’s a tool that will evolve how we work … AI won’t replace your job, but someone who knows AI will,” said Gill.

She cited a 2022 report from the World Economic Forum which predicted 85 million jobs worldwide would be displaced by technology and automation, however 97 million new roles would be created due to the same forces.

The panel tackled complex questions — and some had no simple answers — like the impact of GenAI on sustainability as complex computing requires large amounts of energy. Artificial Intelligence Analysis graduate Tejas Vyas said a lot of start ups are working on the sustainability issue when it comes to increasingly complex computing.

A principal investigator at DC’s AI Hub, a software developer at Preference North America and a 2021 Artificial Intelligence Analysis grad, Vyas also took an optimistic approach when asked about the impact on GenAI on human intelligence.

“Every new technology increases human intelligence,” he said. “Think of it this way: we started with a wheel — we created that wheel then we moved forward, we created a car out of it and now we move forward, we created a self-driving car. Getting something that is very smart is a stepping stone we can build upon. If students and the public are able to use (GenAI) well it will be able to augment existing intelligence.”

GenAI is revolutionizing the workplace and DC is preparing students and faculty to adapt and thrive in this new environment. Find out more about how DC’s Centre for Teaching and Learning is supporting the use of GenAI in higher education.

Durham College celebrates career-ready graduates at Fall Convocation

Durham College (DC) celebrated the academic achievements of nearly 2,000 career-ready graduates this week at Fall Convocation. Graduates from DC’s eight faculties received their diplomas and graduate certificates, including:

“After almost 38 years in the college system and almost 16 years as president of Durham College, Convocation remains one of my favourite events,” said Don Lovisa, president. “Durham College prepares students to make an impact in our community, and it’s extremely rewarding to witness them cross the stage to receive their credentials. Convocation marks the beginning of a new chapter, and I can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.”

Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

  • Lauren Bull, DC Alumna and founder & CEO, Canoe & Lake.
  • Brandon Bird, DC Alumnus and CEO, Bird Mechanical Ltd., who was recently named one of On-Site Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction.

During the evening ceremony on October 26, the college also recognized Stephanie Ball, retired executive dean, with the honorary designation of Emeritus in recognition of her many years of outstanding service to DC students and the community.

For more information about Fall Convocation, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/convocation

Professor receives prestigious PR award

Durham College (DC) professor Matisse Hamel-Nelis has been recognized for her tireless commitment to accessibility in communications.

PR News has named her one of their People of the Year in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Champion category.  

A professor in the PR and Strategic Communications program, she emphasizes the importance of making communication materials accessible to all.  

“I love teaching and bringing the concept of accessibility into what I do. In every class I teach, my students have to make sure their content is accessible when they submit it to me, and I teach them how to do it,” she said.

There are a number of ways to make a document more accessible, like using a larger font size, prioritizing concise language that is easily digested by a screen reading program, and providing descriptive text with photos.

Students who enter the workforce with these skills will be in demand with employers.

“If you’re creating a document accessibly, it’s going to save you money down the line and it’s going to save you time when you’re doing it. Once it’s done, you’ll have a truly accessible piece of communication that you can use anywhere, and you’ll have a skillset that not many other students will have.”

As a 2015 graduate of the program in which she now teaches, Hamel-Nelis knows firsthand how fast things can change. Accessibility wasn’t a big part of the curriculum at the time, and she didn’t realize the scope of its importance until she got a job at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind.

“That’s where I found my love and passion for accessibility and communications and all things diversity, equity and inclusion,” she said, noting that although 15 per cent of the world’s population identifies with a disability, the real number is likely even higher.

In addition to her work at DC, she serves as vice president, Communications for AbleDocs, where she helps organizations ensure their messages are accessible to all.

That commitment is what caught the attention of PR News, and she’ll be traveling to New York next month to accept her award alongside the other honourees.

“Accessibility is really coming to the forefront of what we need to learn and do as communicators. To be recognized for that is a huge, huge honor. It means the world to me.”

With the PR and Strategic Communications program winding down, she is guiding the development of a new graduate certificate that will take its place.

“It’s going to be a great opportunity for our prospective students. We’ve put some really good stuff into it. They’re going to love it.”

With Hamel-Nelis leading the way, DC will continue to produce graduates who excel in the field of communications.

More information on the new Public Relations graduate certificate program is available here.

Durham College celebrates student achievement at 2023 Spring Convocation

More than 2,600 career-ready graduates received credentials. 

Durham College (DC) recognized the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2023 at Spring Convocation, this week.

“Convocation is an incredible event that provides the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our students over the course of their studies,” said Don Lovisa, president. “With dynamic hands-on learning and innovative programs led by industry experts, our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead the way in their next chapter.”

A total of 2,604 graduates from the college’s eight faculties received their diplomas and graduate certificates, including the inaugural cohorts of the Behavioural Science Technician and Supply Chain Management – Global programs.

Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

  • Kerri-Ann Williams, project management professional and professor and 2016 Biomedical Engineering Technology program graduate.
  • Stew MacDonald, president and chief revenue officer of OEG Sports & Entertainment Group, DC Alumni Leader, student mentor and 1981 graduate of the Sports Administration program.
  • Matt Hamilton, automotive industry professional and 2014 Chemical Engineering Technology program graduate.
  • Noor Ra’fat Ibrahim, television news on-air personality for Global News Toronto and 2017 graduate of the Journalism – Broadcast and Electronic Media program.

Over the course of the event, the college also recognized three deserving recipients with Alumni of Distinction awards based on their extraordinary contributions to society while achieving career success:

  • Christine Cunningham, Social Service Worker, Class of 2015
  • Stew MacDonald, Sports Administration, Class of 1981
  • Tre Sanderson, Culinary Management, Class of 2015

For more information about Spring Convocation, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/convocation.

Durham College names three new Alumni of Distinction

Durham College (DC) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2023 Alumni of Distinction award. 

Christine Cunningham (Social Service Worker, 2015), Stew MacDonald (Sports Administration, 1981) and Tre Sanderson (Culinary Management, 2015) have all been selected this year and will be presented with their awards at Spring Convocation. It’s a meaningful milestone for all of the honourees, each of whom credits DC with playing a key role in their success.

“It was through Durham College that I was able to change my career and come into social service work,” said Cunningham, who runs a successful counselling private practice and is the founder and executive director of Perinatal Wellbeing Ontario (PWO). She also acts as a placement supervisor for Social Service Worker students from DC. “I believe in the work I’m doing in this community and it’s wonderful to have more people learn about it because of winning the award.”

MacDonald is president and chief revenue officer with the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League. Throughout his tenure, the team has won multiple Stanley Cup championships, hosted the NHL’s first-ever outdoor game and relocated to a new, state-of-the-art arena. Throughout his career, he has supported DC as an Alumni Leader, a participant in the DC Talks: Alumni Series, and a mentor to students.

“I am forever grateful to Durham College for accepting me as a student and for preparing me for my career,” he said. “I have always been very proud of being a Durham grad, so to be recognized by the College as an Alumnus of Distinction is a huge personal honour. The list of past recipients of this award is so impressive, and to be included in that group is incredibly special.”

Tre Sanderson made history last year as the first Black winner of Top Chef Canada. He has worked in some of Toronto’s best kitchens throughout his career and incorporates his diverse culinary influences into his creations. He returned to DC earlier this year as the guest chef for a special event at the campus restaurant, Bistro ’67, and shared his knowledge and experience with today’s students.

“This means a lot to me. Being recognized for my accomplishments since graduating from Durham with this awesome award is rewarding,” he said. “I’m very thankful.”

“We are proud to celebrate Christine, Stew and Tre who, throughout their remarkable careers, have epitomized what ‘leading the way’ is all about,” said Linda Flynn, associate vice president, Office of Development and Alumni Affairs. “These exceptional individuals show the power of a DC education, and they are an inspiration for our entire community.”

Learn more about this year’s nominees.

DC alumna making noise in the music business

Durham College (DC) alumna Anne Stirk’s successful career in the music business has been recognized with a place on the inaugural Women in Music Canada Honour Roll.

Working in artist and label partnerships at Spotify, she amplifies the voices of Canada’s homegrown artists and introduces them to the world, while also helping international artists increase their presence in the Canadian market.

She joined her peers at a gala event in Toronto on International Women’s Day, March 8, for an evening of recognition, gratitude and, naturally, music.

“I feel so deeply honoured to have been nominated, and even more so to have shared the space with such amazing individuals,” she said. “So much laughter, love and good vibes were had, and the evening was a testament to the incredible power of women coming together. It was an incredible and long overdue celebration.”

The career she enjoys today is one she dreamed of as a young girl growing up in a musical family. She found that she was more interested in working behind the scenes than in performing, and she spent her time exploring the nascent internet for news on her favourite bands, meeting fellow fans and interviewing musicians for her own website.

Her passion led her to DC’s Music Business Management program.

“DC started it all for me. That program is really good at making sure you have the fundamentals of everything in the music business, from publishing to copyrighting to event management.”

She is often reminded of her time at DC thanks to her enduring friendships with her classmates, some of whom also work in the industry. She has also employed a number of interns from the program over the years, confident that they have received a great education.

“The real-world scenarios that get thrown at you in that program are what prepared me to deal with different personalities and different people in the business, especially artists. You can teach people anything from a book, but nothing prepares you for life and dealing with people until you’re actually in those real-life scenarios. It gave me the ability to evolve quickly.”

That’s an ability she’s had to call on many times in her career. After graduating in 2007, she spent over a decade at Universal Music Canada, where she experienced a seismic change in her own career and the industry itself. She worked with the biggest music retailers in Canada on a number of in-store events with popular artists like Justin Bieber, Drake and Halsey before the rise of streaming services changed the way people buy music. Transitioning into digital marketing, she made sure that Universal artists were properly promoted on the new platforms.

In the constantly shifting music business, she has thrived by embracing change, and jumping to Spotify in 2018 was another big one. There, she works with artists and their managers to ensure that as broad an audience as possible hears them. Her most rewarding experiences are when an artist she has helped to cultivate experiences a surge in popularity on the platform.

Working at Spotify has given her a whole new perspective on the business, and not just the good parts. Her new position showed her the true scope of the inequalities faced by women, people of colour and Indigenous artists in the industry, and she devoted herself to addressing that imbalance. With so many voices struggling to be heard, she takes every opportunity to promote those that have been marginalized.

“If someone who needs and deserves support might not get it otherwise, we can amplify them a little further. That’s what keeps me going; making sure the artists that deserve to be heard, are heard, and have equal opportunity.”

Now that she has a voice of influence in the industry, she is determined to use it to create positive change, not just for artists around the world, but for those closest to her.

“I just want a world where my nieces don’t have to worry about being women, or being part Indigenous. I know the music business is a small percentage of that overall equity conversation, but if I can make a little difference for them, I will.”

That motivation will fuel her as she continues to lead the way in reshaping the music industry.

Countdown to Grad prepares students for life as DC alumni

The Durham College (DC) Class of 2023 learned more about what lies ahead at Countdown to Grad.

Over 500 students attended this week’s events in Oshawa and Whitby, which gave the soon-to-be graduates a valuable preview of some of the benefits they will enjoy as members of DC’s alumni family.

DC graduates become lifelong members of the Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA), granting them exclusive benefits and discounts using the free DC Alumni Connect app.

They also have access to DC’s career development site, the Hired Portal. Whether they’re hunting for their first job out of school or looking to take an established career to the next level, they can search job listings, speak to a career advisor, attend on-campus recruiter events and workshops and much more.

Attendees at Countdown to Grad also learned about a number of Pathways to continuing their education. Whether they’re interested in a diploma, degree, graduate certificate or fast-track option, a DC credential provides a valuable head start.

DC offers a wide variety of in-demand graduate certificate programs like Cloud Computing and Pharmaceutical Science. In less than a year, students can gain valuable skills and hands-on industry experience that will give them an edge in the competitive job market. A select number of graduate certificate programs offer weekend delivery options, allowing students to complete their on-campus learning experience without attending traditional weekday classes.

DC continues to innovate with new bachelor’s degree programs like Community Mental Health and Paralegal, which can get our alumni even closer to their dream careers.

Alumni are encouraged to stay connected with DC on social media and share the stories of their success with us. Graduates are also eligible for DC’s Alumni of Distinction award, which recognizes graduates who make extraordinary contributions to society while also achieving career success.

Even after graduation, our alumni remain valued members of the DC family.

DC grad named Canada’s Top Chef

Canada’s new Top Chef is a proud Durham College (DC) graduate.

Trevane ‘Tre’ Sanderson, a 2015 graduate of DC’s Culinary Management program, claimed victory last month on the hit show Top Chef Canada. Facing off against 10 of Canada’s best chefs, Tre needed all of his culinary knowledge and passion to come out on top.

“This moment, this win, was so memorable,” he said. “It was a proud moment and a big accomplishment.”

Studying the culinary arts at DC was an easy choice for Tre, who has nurtured a love of food and cooking ever since childhood. His timing couldn’t have been better, as he and his classmates were the very first to learn their trade at the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food. Tre cited the unique education he received there, including DC’s field-to-fork and sustainable business practices, as a big factor in the success he has achieved so far.

“DC gave me the confidence to get out there and go into my industry.”

The up-and-coming chef’s career has been on the rise ever since he graduated, with successful stints at notable Toronto restaurants like Baro, Hotel X and Vela. Fresh off his Top Chef triumph, he hopes to return to DC in the near future and give back to the school and its students. Plans aren’t finalized yet, but he’d like to work with the current Culinary Management students, and even set up a pop-up restaurant, hopefully in time for Black History Month in February.

He’ll have plenty of advice to offer to the young chefs at the Whitby campus.

“Always challenge yourself, and never stay comfortable,” he said. “The moment you’re comfortable, you stop learning.”

As for his own future, Tre has big plans, and opening his own restaurant will be just the beginning.

“I want to start this culinary empire I’ve always dreamed of since I started cooking…keep pushing the boundaries and working with different chefs. I want to be a world class chef who people can look up to.”

By becoming Canada’s Top Chef, Tre has demonstrated that anything is possible when you work hard, dream big and can lead with way with a great education.

Over 1,770 Durham College graduates are prepared to lead the way following 2022 Fall Convocation

On Thursday, October 27, graduates from eight faculties, including the first cohorts from the new Pharmaceutical Science and Environmental Health and Safety Management programs, received their post-secondary credentials during Fall Convocation. Family, friends, Durham College (DC) employees and a guest speaker celebrated graduates at the Tribute Communities Centre, acknowledging their achievements and instilling words of encouragement and inspiration throughout two ceremonies.

“As the class of 2022 embarks on their new future, we are just as proud and excited as they are” said Dr. Elaine Popp, Executive Vice-President, Academic. “We know they have developed the skills and hands-on expertise to surpass their goals. We wish them all the best as they begin their careers and we look forward to seeing the types of leaders they grow into.”

Alumnus Thao Nghiem, a 2018 graduate of DC’s Music Business Administration program addressed the graduating class. Thao is the co-director of the Oshawa Music Awards (OMAs) and co-founder of the Vietnam Music Industry Network (VMIN). Combining a passion for business with her dedication to celebrating music and talent, Thao has spent the last five years making meaningful connections on campus at DC and in the community.

In her remarks to the graduates, she encouraged them to challenge themselves by starting something new, being of service to others, making mistakes, learning to love themselves, and striving to impact the lives of others.

“It was an absolute honour to be the guest speaker at Durham College’s 2022 Fall Convocation.” said Thao Nghiem. “Not too long ago I was sitting in the exact same place as our grads, wondering what life would be like as I embarked on my post-DC journey. “I am grateful for the experience I gained at DC and the opportunity to give back to the school and now, my fellow alumni.”

A total of 1,779 graduates from the Faculties of Business; Hospitality & Horticulture; Media, Art & Design; Science, Engineering & Information Technology; Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship; Health Sciences; Liberal Studies; Social & Community Services; and Professional & Part-time Learning received their diplomas and certificates this fall.

For more information about Fall Convocation, including links to videos of each ceremony, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/convocation.

Celebrating outstanding Durham College alumni through 2022 Premier’s Awards nominations

Durham College (DC) is delighted to announce that four alumni have recently been nominated for a 2022 Premier’s Award, which honours outstanding college graduates who are making an impact through social and economic contributions in Ontario and beyond.

The awards have been presented by Colleges Ontario since 1992 and recognize Ontario college graduates every year in the following seven categories – Apprenticeship, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Technology.

“Our nominated alumni continue to showcase in their careers the solid foundation of excellence and innovation that they first developed as students at Durham College,” said Don Lovisa, president, DC. “I’m extremely proud of each of their accomplishments, and take immense pride in knowing that DC was a stepping stone for their exceptional work in our communities. I wish each of our nominees the best of luck at this year’s awards!”

DC’s nominees include:

Kristin Atwood – Culinary Management, 2016 and Advanced Baking and Pastry Arts, 2017

Kristin Atwood has been combining her passion for food and filmmaking since graduating from DC’s Culinary Management and Advanced Baking and Pastry Arts programs in 2016 and 2017.

She created an award-winning independent production company called Chef Studio, where she produces cooking tutorials and web series that bring the joy and magic of cooking to digital streaming and video-on-demand platforms. Atwood has been recognized by several prestigious awards organizations, including winning Best New Filmmaker by the Canadian Diversity Film Festival in 2021, as well as receiving a nomination for a James Beard Foundation Award and an Emmy® Award in the Outstanding Single Camera Editing category – just to name a few.

Atwood currently works for LS Productions, an agency specializing in commercials, film and TV, music videos, and fashion and sports shoots in the United Kingdom. She is nominated for a Premier’s Award in the Recent Graduate category.

Brandon Bird – Level 3 Plumber Apprentice Certificate, 2012

Brandon Bird completed his Level 3 Plumber Apprentice Certificate in 2012 in order to prepare himself for future leadership at his family’s third-generation plumbing and heating company. As a licensed Red Seal plumber, Bird worked his way up the ranks, always looking for ways to grow the business. This included overseeing the acquisition and amalgamation of John McKenzie Plumbing with Bird Mechanical Ltd. in 2014, allowing the company to offer more services and expand into new markets. In 2016, at just 28 years old, Bird became the youngest CEO in the company’s history.

Today, Bird manages a team of 200 people, including 135 tradespeople. Under his guidance, the business has doubled its annual sales revenue to $56.4 million thanks to his new approaches to service. As CEO, he oversees projects ranging from $5,000 to $20 million. Clients include Cape Breton Regional Health Centre, Queen’s University, Dalhousie University, Infrastructure Ontario and Cadillac Fairview. Bird is nominated for a Premier’s Award in the Apprenticeship category.

Dr. Nicole Blackman, DNP, MN, RN – Registered Nursing, 2004

Since graduating from DC’s Registered Nursing program in 2004, Dr. Blackman has continued her academic path, attaining her Bachelor of Science degree, as well as a Master of Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice, both with a specialization in Indigenous Health. As a proud member of Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, she has dedicated her advanced practice nursing career to enhancing the health of the Indigenous Peoples of Canada.

After devoting more than five years to improving Indigenous health in Moose Factory and surrounding communities, Dr. Blackman returned to the Durham Region, accepting an Indigenous lead position for the Durham Region Health Department, and was hired in 2019 as the health director for the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. More recently, she was hired as provincial director of the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council. Dr. Blackman is nominated for a Premier’s Award in the Health Sciences category.

John Draper – Journalism, 2005

Entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker, John Draper champions diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion through Together We Rock! Inc., the organization he founded in 2006. Supported by a team of employees, consultants and volunteer advisors, Together We Rock! realizes its vision through presentations, learning resources and leadership initiatives. Through his lived experience as a person with a physical disability who is an augmentative communication user, Draper presents a compelling case for change.

His leadership efforts have earned him provincial and international recognition, such as the 2007 Alumnus of Distinction award from DC, and the David C. Onley Award in 2017 for Leadership in Accessibility, presented by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. In 2017, he was also named Businessperson of the Year by the Whitby Chamber of Commerce. Draper is nominated for a Premier’s Award in the Community Services category.

The entire DC community wishes our nominated alumni the best of luck. This year’s Premier’s Award winners will be announced on November 28, 2022.