Durham College is a Family Affair

As Family Day approaches, we are proud to share some stories of alumni and students in our DC community who are really, family. Read on to show about how they share their #DCpride.


Vibrant Durham College and Ontario Tech Job Fair connects students directly with employers

Nearly 2,700 students and alumni from Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University, connected with 85 employers at the annual on-campus Job Fair last week, exploring full-time, part-time and seasonal opportunities.

“The event went extremely well for both employers and students,” said Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director of Student and Career Development. “I heard great feedback from employers who had good conversations with students and were impressed with the skill and experience they had.”

The fair featured positions spanning a broad range of industries and included representatives from Ontario Power Generation, General Motors, the Toronto Blue Jays and Ontario Parks.

Dan Dunstan, Human Resources Business Partner at the Toronto Zoo, said his team was preparing for the summer peak season with over 30 positions available in areas such as guest-facing roles, horticulture, materials collection, custodial work, and seasonal wildlife care.

“It’s one of the busiest job fairs there is,” he said. “It gives us a good chance of connecting with students here at Durham College and we’ve also been in the process of building partnerships for our co-op programs at the college as well.”

Captain Mathieu Savage of the Nunavik Police Services in northern Quebec also attended, looking for candidates with strong values from diverse backgrounds.

“In order to have the most efficient team possible, I think variety is what you’re looking for,” he said. “If I have a good mix of men and women, younger and older, different cultures and backgrounds, schooling, life experience – then when we do have a situation or problem, everyone won’t have the same solutions and someone may have an excellent solution they draw from their experience or background.”

Students attending the event said they enjoyed meeting employers and learning about what they are looking for. Among them was Nadim Gutto, a second-year Electrical Engineering Technician student.

“The employers I have spoken with have been really helpful, including helping me tailor my resume towards their specific jobs,” he said. “Some of them have a different view about how a well-structured resume looks.”

Tavia Wilson, Spa Director at The Pearle Spa in Burlington, was specifically looking to meet with massage therapy students, but she had general tips for anyone looking for a job at her company.

“When you’re applying for any position at the spa, change your resume so it’s not like every other job you’re applying for,” she said. “It makes me aware that you’ve actually done research on our company and the position you’re applying for instead of just firing off resumes, so really hone in on why I should look at your resume.”

For those who missed this event, there is another opportunity to connect with more than 45 employers at the Whitby Campus Job Fair on February 13. To learn more about upcoming employment events and to access resources, including resume help, visit the Hired Portal.


DC’s Food Access Bursary provided relief to students over the holidays

Over the holiday season, $165,700 was distributed through Durham College’s (DC) Food Access Bursary, supporting nearly 1,000 students in need.

As students invest in their future by pursuing post-secondary education, they are often faced with additional challenges, including the rising cost of groceries. Thanks to the collaborative support of the DC community – including employees, alumni, volunteers, students, donors, and DC’s Financial Aid and Awards office – the Food Access Bursary can serve as a relief, supplementing grocery costs for students experiencing food insecurity.

“To see everyone in our community come together is heartwarming. It’s what the Durham College community is all about,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations at DC. “Their generosity makes a meaningful impact on our students, and we are so grateful for their support.”

Two college associations returned to support the bursary again this season. The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) were the campaign’s greatest supporter with a donation of $60,000, while the Durham College Alumni Association matched the first $10,000 raised.

“The DCSA is proud to support the college’s effort to fight food insecurity,” said Megan Bent, DCSA Executive Chairwoman. “With rising grocery costs, we saw that the need for support was greater than ever, and we are humbled to have played a role in helping fellow students access the resources they need.”

Originally established as a holiday food drive, the Food Access Bursary is also supported each year by many DC employees who donate directly or through the annual campus Candy Cane Sale, which supports students at both the college and Ontario Tech University.

“Through our collective efforts, we were able to make a meaningful impact, ensuring that more students could focus on their studies and enjoy peace of mind during the holiday season,” added Bent. “Thank you to everyone who supported this important cause and joined us in making a difference for students on campus.”

 


Durham College Partners with Community Care Durham to Deliver Workplace Training for PSWs

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) at Community Care Durham (CCD) recently gained essential workplace skills thanks to a successful partnership with Durham College (DC) Academic Upgrading. Over seven weeks, PSWs participated in a specialized training program focused on enhancing digital literacy and document use—critical skills that support their daily work and professional growth.

This initiative marks a milestone as DC’s Academic Upgrading’s first Workplace Training program delivered directly to professionals serving the local community. The program was made possible with support from the Literacy Network of Durham Region.

“Our collaboration with Community Care Durham has been an incredible milestone for Academic Upgrading at DC,” said Meagan Quesnelle, Manager School College Work Initiative & Academic Upgrading at DC. “Seeing the enthusiasm and growth of the PSWs as they developed their skills was truly inspiring. This partnership demonstrates the power of education to support professionals making a difference in our community, and we’re excited to continue building on this success.”

The impact of the training was clear, with participants strengthening key skills that directly benefit their work. “Participants improved their email communication and documentation skills, which are critical for their roles,” said Ayaan Mohamed, Program Manager for Assisted Living Services, Respite, and Supportive Housing at CCD.

“We really saw the value of the training and the excitement staff had for it. It created a snowball effect of learning and engagement,” Mohamed added.

Building on this success, DC’s Academic Upgrading will expand its partnership with CCD in Fall 2025 to offer additional training opportunities for both PSWs and PSW Care Coordinators.

For those looking to develop essential workplace skills or pursue a rewarding career in health care, Durham College offers a range of programs, including:


Recognizing Black History Month at DC

February is Black History Month and at Durham College (DC) we’re joining Canadians from coast-to-coast in honouring the legacy, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals and communities across the country.

We are proud to celebrate the excellence, resilience, and innovation of the Black community and we want to shine a spotlight on DC’s incredible students, employees and alumni through the Black Excellence & Achievement Content Collection. These stories highlight the contributions and accomplishments of incredible people who are shaping and strengthening our community.

Throughout February, and in support of the theme Pathways to Excellence: Celebrating and Cultivating Black Brilliance at DC, the college’s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is hosting a series of community consultations to better understand the challenges faced by Black community members and to ensure their voices and perspectives inform DC’s decision-making processes.

“Black History Month offers an important opportunity for our Black students and employees to tell us what they need to nurture their brilliance, and facilitate their flourishing,” said Sadie Goddard-Durant, Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. “Through these consultations, DC can enhance existing efforts to maximize the contributions our Black communities have been making to DC, Durham Region and beyond, and to document how they contribute to our future tapestry.”

DC has raised the Pan-African Flag at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses—a powerful symbol of Black liberation and solidarity for members of the Black/African diaspora.

“As we celebrate Black History Month, let us also take a moment to reflect on how we, as individuals, can contribute to building a community rooted in equity, respect, and inclusion,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President. “By embracing these values, we not only honour the history being recognized this month but also uphold the principles that strengthen us as a college and as a society.”

As a college, we are uniquely positioned to address issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as we prepare our students to become leaders and contributing members of our community, said Dr. Popp. “This commitment calls on us to model equity and inclusion at every level of the institution—from leadership to classrooms and beyond. Together, we all have a role in fostering an equitable and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.”


DC Alumni reconnect while cheering on the Oshawa Generals

It’s always a good time when Durham College (DC) alumni get together – especially when the home team gets the win. With the Oshawa Generals taking the lead in the third period, it was good cheer all around at the annual DC Alumni Hockey Night on January 24.

Hosted by the Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA), the event welcomed DC alumni, employees, and their friends and family to watch the Oshawa Generals take on the Peterborough Petes at the Tribute Communities Centre (TCC). Guests reconnected while enjoying dinner and the game in the TCC’s Medallion Lounge.

“Durham College Alumni Hockey Night brought together more than 170 attendees this year, showcasing the incredible strength of our alumni community,” said Mary Weller, Alumni Officer at DC. “A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsor, TD Insurance – their support makes nights like this possible!”

At the top of the game, DC’s Vice President, People, Equity and External Relations, Bonnie St. George; DCAA President, Drew Samuels; and DC’s mascot, Lou, represented the college during the ceremonial puck drop.

Next year, the DCAA will be celebrating the 10th DC Alumni Hockey Night. DC grads are encouraged to watch for more information about this and upcoming events in the digital Alumni Newsletter or on DCAA’s Instagram account.


Durham College to honour exceptional graduates with 2025 Alumni of Distinction Award

Durham College (DC) has been providing dynamic, hands-on learning for over 50 years, and our graduates can be found all around the world, contributing to their communities, making a positive impact and driving change. Each year, DC recognizes some of our remarkable graduates through the Alumni of Distinction Award. Nominations for this year’s awards are now open.

DC’s rapidly-growing alumni community exceeds 116,000 people who play impactful roles both locally and internationally. Since 1990, more than 120 alumni have been honoured with the Alumni of Distinction Award. Recipients are chosen based on their professional, community and personal accomplishments, the scope of their impact, as well as their contributions to the advancement of DC. Winners have ranged from respected medical practitioners to accomplished broadcasters and leaders in sport.

“We are proud of all our alumni, who are making a difference around the world, using the skills and knowledge learned at Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “This award is our opportunity to acknowledge the exceptional contributions they are making in their communities while recognizing and celebrating their remarkable achievements.”

The 2024 Alumni of Distinction included Shelby Nelson, Vice-President of Florida Operations for the Toronto Blue Jays, and Adam Ruppel, founder of Chico Racing and co-founder of Mud Hero and the Drive Festival at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

The nomination form is available online at www.durhamcollege.ca/alumniofdistinction and must be submitted to alumni@durhamcollege.ca before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 7. The award recipients will be recognized at DC’s Spring Convocation in June.


Durham College’s resource event highlights mental health awareness on Bell Let’s Talk Day

To promote mental health awareness and empower students to prioritize their well-being, Durham College (DC) hosted a resource event, as part of Wellness Week. The event, timed to coincide with Bell Let’s Talk Day, underscored the importance of seeking help and fostering open conversations about mental health and connected attendees to vital mental health supports and services.

DC’s Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC) partnered with local organizations to offer welcoming booths, engaging activities, and opportunities for students and employees to learn about counseling, crisis support, and self-care strategies.

“The resource event was a powerful reminder of the strength in community and connection,” said Ahil Nageswaran, Mental Health Services Manager at the CHWC. “It not only highlighted the extensive resources available at Durham College but also encouraged open conversations about mental health, helping to reduce stigma and build a supportive campus environment.”

DC’s Wellness Week also featured yoga and meditation sessions, a gratitude wall for sharing positive messages, interactive workshops on managing stress, and opportunities for students to participate in art therapy and mindfulness activities. First-year Developmental Services Worker student, Evneet Kaur, says initiatives like these are important as she made her way around the resource event.

“Events like this are really wonderful, being a student there are moments where we feel down, so by having these resources we know we have some help,” she shared. “This awareness is really important for everyone and also in this generation we have so much stress about like work and our studies, I really like this about the college, how they support us in every way.”

DC’s commitment to mental health extends far beyond Wellness Week. The college’s holistic approach to well-being is evident in its Wellness Directory, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness. From physical and emotional to social and financial wellness, DC ensures the campus community has the tools it needs to thrive.

Programs like peer support services, group workshops, and one-on-one counseling are readily accessible, while initiatives such as nature themed activities and stress-management sessions create regular opportunities for students to practice self-care. Additionally, the CHWC collaborates with community organizations, such as Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, and Public Health, year-round to enhance the breadth and depth of mental health services available to students.

The success of this year’s Wellness Week underscores DC’s dedication to fostering a culture of care and resilience. By prioritizing mental health and encouraging open dialogue, the college continues to create an inclusive environment where students and employees feel empowered to succeed.

For more information on mental health services and wellness programs at DC, visit the CHWC online.


Kids from across Ontario explore science and technology at FIRST LEGO League provincial championships hosted at DC

There was a wave of excitement at Durham College’s (DC) Oshawa campus as kids from across Ontario competed in the 2025 FIRST LEGO League Challenge Ontario Provincial Championships last weekend.

More than 400 students from Grades 4 to 8 participated in the two-day event co-sponsored by DC. On Saturday they presented their creations in the Science Division while on Sunday students plunged into the Technology Division.

This year’s theme, Submerged, invited competitors to dive deep—both literally and figuratively—into the fascinating world of the ocean. Using creative thinking and LEGO technology, competitors explored the layers of the ocean, uncovering its mysteries, and bringing forward innovative ideas to solve real-world challenges.

“We were thrilled to host some of the brightest young minds from across the province for the 2025 FIRST LEGO League Challenge Ontario Provincial Championship. The challenge invited participants to blend science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with innovation and sustainability in a fun, competitive environment,” said DC President Dr. Elaine Popp. “Opportunities like this are instrumental in nurturing a love of learning and inspiring young people to dream big.”

Mississauga’s Hydrone team earned the championship title in the Science Division on Saturday while Aurora’s Solvers of X & Y won the Technology Division on Sunday. Learn more about FIRST LEGO League and check out the full list of winners!

Beyond this weekend, the competitors’ path to tackling real-world sustainability challenges in our oceans and on land may lie at one of DC’s campuses through our 145+ cutting-edge programs. They include programs like Electromechanical Engineering Technology centred on the exciting world of robotics and automation, degree and diploma programs in Artificial Intelligence focused on the limitless possibilities of AI and essential skilled trades like the Welding or Electrical Engineering Technician programs that serve as a foundation for STEM innovation.


Minister of Colleges and Universities Nolan Quinn, MPPs, gets a hands-on look at Durham College’s in-demand culinary and hospitality programs

Ontario Minister of Colleges and Universities Nolan Quinn gained first-hand insights into how important Durham College’s (DC) innovative culinary and hospitality programs are to the local economy, as he interacted with students and participated in a cooking demonstration.

On January 17, Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President, welcomed Minister Quinn to the Whitby campus. He was joined by Durham MPP Todd McCarthy, the Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement, Whitby MPP Lorne Coe, and Ajax MPP Patrice Barnes. The visit kicked off with a meeting, during which President Popp provided an overview of the critical role colleges, like DC, play in producing the talent pipeline employers need and how funding sustainability is vital to achieving that mission.

The group then toured the state-of-the-art W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, stopping by the culinary labs where Minister Quinn met with first-year students who were busy learning how to prepare restaurant-quality dishes.  The lab visit included a presentation from Program Coordinator and Chef Dave Hawey highlighting unique aspects of DC’s culinary programs, such as cheesemaking.

“We were delighted to host the Minister of Colleges and Universities for his first visit to Durham College, alongside Minister McCarthy and MPPs Coe and Barnes, who are long-standing champions of DC and know us well,” said Popp. “It was wonderful to see the Minister engage with our students and learn more about our innovative and in-demand programs that drive the local hospitality and agri-food sectors. Our close connection with our community has led to many generous donations, which make these facilities possible.”

The group participated in a hands-on culinary demonstration making 15-hour crispy potatoes. Executive Chef Raul Sojo and second-year Culinary Management student Ashley Sedgwick explained how the process was an example of innovative zero-waste cooking with every part of the potato utilized, including transforming the skins into a powder that serves as a garnish for the dish.

Sedgwick shared her DC experience where she has an on-campus job in waste mitigation, finding ways to process and utilize excess produce from the fields that surround the Weston Centre.