Oshawa, Ont. – A brand-new class of students at Durham College (DC) are buzzing with excitement as they kick off their post-secondary journey this September.

This year, DC will welcome more than 6,700 students across nine academic Faculties in 145-plus market-driven programs.

From August 27 to 30, new students attended Academic Welcome Week events at DC’s Oshawa and Whitby campuses. At these half-day events, students connected with their Faculty, receiving essential program-specific details. They also participated in social events and fun activities designed to help them connect with fellow students.

Taylor Norville, a Public Relations student, was excited to attend the event for students in the Faculty of Media, Art and Design on August  27.

“Today I just want to know a little more about my program because I don’t really know what to expect, I haven’t gone to school for something like this before, it’s totally new to me,” she said.

Norville attended a university nursing program before deciding to take Public Relations at DC. She works in the beauty industry selling makeup and fragrances in a retail store and that inspired her to consider a new career path.

“I kind of wanted to go to the business side of the beauty industry and I thought PR would be a really good career for me,” she explains. “At my work I do events, I do our social media so I thought it would be a good transition.”

Meanwhile, at the Faculty of Liberal Studies welcome event, Caleb Pike isn’t quite sure what career path he wants to pursue, so he’s exploring his options while pursuing a General Arts and Science certificate. Through the program, he will earn transferable credits towards a future post-secondary program.

“I’m going to do a one-year program and decide what I’m going to do after that,” he said. “It was either going to be a gap year or this, so I decided to try things out and see what I like and then choose a career.”

He said he was looking forward to picking up new information at the Academic Welcome event and connecting with people.

Liberal Studies Executive Dean Nora Simpson welcomed students in General Arts and Science programs and highlighted the importance of attending orientation events like Academic Welcome Week, pointing out that studies show students who attend orientation are more successful academically. She encouraged students to share what they learned at orientation with their peers.

“When you see some students who are not here today, take a moment and share with them what you’ve learned,” she said. “If there are some key tips or tricks or pieces of information, share it with them and that can be your first act of community-building within the General Arts and Science program, your first act of building this cohort of colleagues and friends.”

Simpson had simple advice for success: get involved and ask for help.

DC President Dr. Elaine Popp shared some heartfelt advice with DC’s newest class, advising them to prioritize themselves along with their academic and personal responsibilities, encouraging them to focus on well-being by keeping active and paying attention to nutrition.

“Another key piece of advice is to cultivate strong relationships with your faculty members,” said Popp. “They aren’t just experts in their fields—they’re also deeply connected with industry. These relationships can open doors to job opportunities or provide valuable references that will help you achieve your goals.”

And finally, she encouraged them to remain true to who they are.

“As you grow and learn this year, be sure to keep living your values.”

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contact

Reka Szekely
Communications Officer
Reka.Szekely@durhamcollege.ca

DC launches four new programs in fall 2024

Oshawa, Ont. – This September, Durham College (DC) will welcome the first intakes of students in four new programs, designed to prepare them for today’s competitive job market with the skills and industry-specific knowledge they need to succeed.

The Law Clerk diploma, Professional Selling and Business Development graduate certificate , Clinical Bioinformatics graduate certificate, and the Public Relations graduate certificate programs are DC’s newest offerings – contributing to the college’s impressive repertoire of more than 145 programs, all developed to meet employer and industry needs.

“There is a heightened demand for professionals in these fields and we are proud to develop programming with a forward-focused perspective that prepares students to be career-ready in these industries,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students at DC. “We actively identify workforce trends and stay ahead of them by following a rigorous program development process that includes labour market analysis and consultation with industry professionals and leaders.”

DC’s new Clinical Bioinformatics graduate certificate program is addressing the growing demand in the health sciences, particularly in emerging fields like genomics and proteomics. These fields, which have evolved from advancements in gene sequencing, enable scientists to use big data to identify and analyze diseases and disorders, leading to the development of targeted drug therapies and precision medicine.

“Research indicates a significant need for experts in clinical bioinformatics who can effectively utilize genomic and proteomic data to improve healthcare quality and patient outcomes,” said Choi.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers in clinical data analysis, clinical research, or genetic counseling within the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.

“We also know that there are increasing employability rates in the public relations sector and legal fields, and in the sales industry the acceleration of digital trends has elevated the need for sales professionals to adopt new strategies to drive business success,” Choi added.

As industries rapidly evolve and employer needs continue to shift, DC remains committed to a proactive approach to program development. The college is preparing students who will fill labour shortage gaps and support growth across sectors, enabling graduates to take on rewarding careers in new and evolving fields.

Discover more than 145 in-demand programs by visiting DC online today.

 

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contact
Carmen Doucette
Senior Communications Officer
Carmen.Doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College (DC) celebrated one of its largest graduating classes in its history during Spring Convocation, held this week in eight ceremonies over four days at the Tribute Communities Centre.

Nearly 5,000 career-ready graduates – including the first graduating classes from the Web Development, Cloud Computing and Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Science programs –  crossed the stage to receive their degrees, diplomas and certificates, ready to fill the needs of high-priority industries.

The first Convocation ceremony included a significant milestone in DC’s history with the official installation of its sixth President, Dr. Elaine Popp, who began her role on March 1, 2024.

“I’m very proud and honoured to have been officially installed as President this week and to celebrate alongside our impressive graduating class,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “The future is bright for Durham College graduates, and I am confident that the quality education they received has equipped them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in in-demand careers.”

DC’s Class of 2024 includes graduates:

• Maya Austin from the Police Foundations program, who secured full-time employment this summer with York Regional Police and is returning to further her education with DC’s Advanced Law Enforcement and Investigations program in the fall.

• Temilola Abiola Komolafe from the Supply Chain Management – Global program, a mature learner who returned to school to pursue a career that supports her family’s new business venture.
• Riley Coleman from the Accounting – Business Administration program, who was hired full-time after his co-op with the Government of Canada.
• Alexander Hartley and Destry Young from the Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship, who are ready to meet the rising demand for skilled trades workers in Ontario.

DC’s 2024 Alumni of Distinction recipients, Shelby Nelson, Class of 2000, and Adam Ruppel, Class of 1997, were also celebrated this week and recognized for their outstanding achievements and contributions to their fields.

In addition, guest speakers at the ceremonies included notable DC alumni who, since graduating, have made significant contributions to our local and global communities:

• Chris Cull, DC Alumni, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques, Class of 2007
• Jenifer Stewart, DC Alumni, Horticulture – Food and Farming, Class of 2021, and Carpentry and Renovation Technician, Class of 2023
• Brent Colmer, DC Alumni, Music Business Management, Class of 2014
• Stacey Fox, DC Alumni, Human Resources Management, Class of 2000
• Shelby Nelson, DC Alumni, Sports Administration, Class of 2000 and 2024 Alumni of Distinction Award Recipient

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

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 About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contact
Carmen Doucette
Senior Communications Officer
Carmen.Doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College (DC) has officially installed Dr. Elaine Popp as the sixth president in the school’s 57-year history.

The official Installation was led by the Board of Governors and held during the first Convocation ceremony at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa on Monday, June 17. The formal event officially acknowledged Dr. Popp’s role and was an opportunity for her to deliver the Oath of Office directly to the community she serves.

Since taking on the role of President on March 1, 2024, Dr. Popp has been guided by her clear vision of DC as a sustainable, future-proof, people-focused, equity-driven and community-connected college that meets the needs of students and anticipates industry expectations.

“I am deeply honoured to be installed as President, and in this role, I carry a profound sense of responsibility and appreciation,” said Dr. Popp. “As we build upon Durham College’s strong foundation, I am committed to supporting a culture where excellence, innovation and collaboration flourish, as we create a future that honours our past, celebrates our present and embraces our full potential.”

Under Dr. Popp’s leadership, DC will spearhead the transformation of education and foster an environment where students continue to learn, grow and thrive.

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 About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contact
Carmen Doucette
Senior Communications Officer
Carmen.Doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College (DC) is expanding the capacity of its centre of research excellence in artificial intelligence (AI) – the AI Hub – to provide tangible and transformative solutions to real-life business challenges, thanks to a $172,000 grant.

The funding, announced today by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), will support the purchase of two high-performance servers specifically optimized for Generative AI, performance graphics and analytics. These state-of-the-art servers will facilitate large data processing, significantly reducing the time required for data analysis and processing and allowing for increased support of the AI Hub’s diverse external clients across various industries.

Over the past five years, DC’s AI Hub has partnered with more than 100 multi-sector organizations – with 70 per cent from the private sector – to deliver high-quality research and development and innovation services aligned with their needs.

“The emergence of AI tools has significantly impacted the industry landscape, introducing new capabilities and reshaping business models across various sectors,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research. “This grant will allow DC to advance its ability to support businesses with innovative services that grow the economy and develop talent, further underscoring the AI Hub as a one-of-a-kind facility in Ontario.”

In addition, the new tools provide DC students an opportunity for ongoing experiential learning. The AI Hub has a strong track record of engaging students in applied research and more than 250 students have been hired and trained as student research assistants. By using the advanced technology available, students gain hands-on experience, knowledge and enhanced skills to secure meaningful employment post-graduation. To date, 22 students have been directly hired by AI Hub partners, a testament to the skills gained through their on-campus learning.

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor’s degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

 

Media Contacts

Lindsay Holley
Communications, Durham College
lindsay.holley@durhamcollege.ca

 

 

Oshawa, Ont. – The Durham College (DC) Board of Governors has announced the appointment of two experienced senior leaders as Chair and Vice-Chair.

Lisa Allen has been named new Board Chair and Peter Pryce is Vice-Chair. Their one-year terms will begin Monday, July 1.

Both have already served on the Board, and are excited to continue working with President Dr. Elaine Popp and their fellow board members to seize opportunities and navigate challenges, ensuring that Durham College remains at the forefront of post-secondary education.

“I am deeply honoured to step into the role of Chair of the Board at Durham College,” said Allen, a senior enterprise risk professional and a Chartered Professional Accountant with a Bachelor of Accounting degree from Brock University. “I am incredibly DC proud of this institution’s legacy of fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education. As we move forward, we will build upon this strong foundation to continue meeting the evolving needs of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.”

A Senior Operations Manager for a large natural gas utility contractor, Pryce is heavily involved in planning and executing large natural gas projects throughout Ontario. His proven ability to shepherd complicated projects to completion will serve him well in his new role as Vice-Chair.

“My interest in joining the Board was to give back to the community and do all I could to assist the college, and our young people achieve their academic goals, especially those seeking careers in the trades,” he said. “This role will provide me with a further opportunity to support Durham College, the amazing staff, our new Chair, and all the Governors that give so much of their time to this awesome institution.”

Under the leadership of the new Chair and Vice-Chair, the 2024-2025 Board will continue to support Dr. Popp in executing her vision for the future and launching DC’s strategic planning process.

“The President’s vision and leadership will be instrumental as we chart the next chapter for Durham College,” said Allen. “By working closely with our dedicated board members, talented staff, and engaged stakeholders, we will realize our vision.”

The Board is committed to meeting its fiduciary responsibilities and established mandate through collaborative leadership, openness, and transparency. To learn more about the roles and duties of officers, read the Board policy.

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 About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contacts

Jason Chamberlain
Communications, Durham College
jason.chamberlain@durhamcollege.ca

Oshawa, Ont. – Nearly 5,000 students will cross the stage next week at Durham College’s (DC) Spring Convocation and are prepared to enter high-priority fields including healthcare, skilled trades and information technology (IT).

In one of its largest graduating classes, more than 30 per cent are connected to these key career paths, underscoring the college’s commitment to being a future-focused institution and preparing career-ready graduates for rewarding jobs in in-demand fields.

“Our role at Durham College is to ensure the skills demanded by employers and those we are preparing for the workforce, are aligned,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic. “We play a vital role in addressing the shortage of skilled workers, contributing to Durham Region’s economic resilience and growth. Our graduates are prepared with the knowledge and hands-on experience to be the next generation of leaders across key sectors.”

The skilled trades sector has one of the highest labour shortages, according to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Business Confidence Survey, with the construction boom expected to require 72,000 new workers to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. Nearly 800 skilled trades students will graduate this June from DC’s signature skilled trades programs, helping to fuel growth in this critical industry.

Of the top 15 jobs most frequently advertised in the Greater Toronto Area, eight are IT-related, according to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. As artificial intelligence shapes the demand for jobs and skills of tomorrow, DC responded with the development of new programs including Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Analysis, Design and Implementation. Together, 240 students will graduate from these programs ready to take on careers in new and evolving fields.

To further meet critical demand and respond to employment gaps in the healthcare and social assistance sectors, DC has expanded enrolment in nursing, paramedic, personal support worker, and Early Childhood Education programs. Next week, more than 480 students will graduate from these programs, ready to enter the workforce, fill labour shortage gaps and support growth.

“Durham College offers an innovative and forward-thinking learning environment—one that thrives on collaboration and teamwork,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham. “We see it reflected in their graduates; individuals who are helping to shape local high-demand and high-priority industries. It’s no secret that Durham Region is known as a place where world-class talent comes to live and learn. And it’s the work of these individuals that have helped to earn this reputation. To propel this region into the global spotlight.”

Dr. Choi emphasized the importance of understanding labour patterns, as they’re essential to maintaining a forward-focused perspective. “DC ensures that students have access to the courses and programs they need to secure jobs employers need to fill – in this fast-changing world,” said Dr. Choi. “I am proud of our quality graduates who are ready to make local, national and global impact and DC’s continued efforts to meet the needs of our rapidly evolving workforce.”

Learn more about Durham College’s in-demand programs.

 

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About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media Contact
Carmen Doucette
Communications, Durham College
carmen.doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College’s (DC) Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture and the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) have partnered on a unique dual credit program that is giving Ajax high school students a taste of life – and work – on the farm.

This semester, 15 Grade 11 students from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School have participated in the Propagation of Vegetables dual credit program at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm. The course is a modified version of one from DC’s Horticulture – Food and Farming program, giving students an innovative opportunity to simultaneously earn a high school and college credit.

Funded by the School College Work Initiative, the program allows students to explore potential career paths in agriculture while earning tangible academic credentials. They spent the winter months in the classroom learning about agriculture before rolling up their sleeves for hands-on experience at the nearby farm.

“It’s a really valuable program,” said Jennifer Hoban, the Barrett Centre’s Community Engagement Coordinator and the Professor who works with the Notre Dame students. “Whether or not the kids go on to be farmers, understanding what goes into the production of food and seeing the connection between what they’re eating and where it comes from is incredibly valuable.”

Through a blend of classroom discussions and farm activities, the students have come to embrace the joys of getting their hands dirty.

“Through this partnership with Durham College we are excited to provide expanded academic opportunities for students through hands-on, experiential learning,” said Jim Wilson, DCDSB Superintendent of Education. “Secondary students learn valuable life skills while completing a college credit which helps prepare them for multiple post-secondary pathways.”

The program has had transformative power according to Ante Tojcic, a teacher at Notre Dame who also works with the students.

“The dual credit program has allowed students to experience a whole new level of learning, giving them insights into college and beyond,” he said. “They have learned to propagate their own vegetables, and they’re always in awe at the growth of the plants from week to week.”

 

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

About Durham Catholic District School Board

The Durham Catholic District School Board shares a sense of community among families, educators and parishes and is committed to integrating the teachings of the Gospel with quality educational programs that guide students in their journeys to meeting the Catholic Graduate Expectations. The Board currently serves approximately 22,500 students in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and the townships of Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.

 

Media Contacts

Jason Chamberlain
Communications Officer, Durham College
jason.chamberlain@durhamcollege.ca

Emily McCall
Communications Officer, Durham Catholic District School Board
emily.mccall@dcdsb.ca

Durham College (DC) celebrated the renaming of its Whitby campus main building to the Don Lovisa Building, in honour of its past president’s transformative leadership and impact on the college.

The renaming was announced during Lovisa’s retirement celebration in February, making it the third space in DC’s history to be named after a former president.

“I am profoundly grateful and deeply moved by the college’s decision to name the Whitby campus main building in my honour,” shared Lovisa. “It is a testament not only to my dedication and success but also the collective efforts of all those who have supported me throughout my tenure. It is my wish that those who have contributed to this moment will remember the excellent work we did together and take pride in their success as well.”

During Lovisa’s 16-year presidency, he oversaw millions of dollars in capital investments to drive growth of the college while maintaining a strong focus on employment skills for in-demand jobs.

“I had the privilege of working alongside Don for eight years, and during that time, I witnessed first-hand the type of bold leader Don was. His approach was grounded in a desire for relentless innovation in programming, operations and campus experience for our students, employees and visitors,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of Durham College. “We are proud to honour his accomplishments with the naming of the Don Lovisa Building.”

Dr. Gail Johnson Morris, Chair of DC’s Board of Governors, says the Don Lovisa Building serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation for Lovisa’s dedication to advancing education while prioritizing community connections.

“Don’s leadership was instrumental in growing Durham College’s impact and established it as a beacon of generative innovation,” she said. “His dedication and vision inspired countless students, faculty, staff and stakeholders, both here at the college and in our surrounding communities.”