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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.

Advancing Indigenization and Reconciliation Across Durham College

Durham College (DC) continues to strengthen its commitment to Indigenization in integrating Indigenous perspectives and fostering a supportive environment for Indigenous students.

Over the past year, teams across the college implemented a number of actions to honour Indigenous cultures, support Indigenous students, and contribute to the broader goals of reconciliation and decolonization in education.

Through cultural programming, student support, and community events, Suswaaning Endaajig – First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC), continued to advance Indigenous learning and engagement across campus. Activities included Elder-led teachings and Sharing Circles on Residential Schools and reconciliation. They hosted campus-wide events; partnered with the Centre for Teaching and Learning on faculty development; collaborated with community partners, including the Durham Community Health Centre, to provide Traditional Healing services; and amplified Indigenous authors and resources online.

Meaningful steps were taken to embed Indigenous perspectives into teaching and learning. This included the introduction of the Braiding Learning Framework, which integrates and harmonizes diverse pedagogical practices to foster inclusive, engaging, and empowering learning environments. By weaving together different ways of knowing, the framework supports safer and more collaborative educational spaces that honour both cultural and academic excellence within lifelong learning.

Stories of Indigenous students and alumni were shared widely, including a feature on the installation of an Indigenous student artist’s painting of the 13 Moons in prominent locations on the Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

The college further advanced Indigenous-led and Indigenous-informed research practices. The Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship hosted training on the First Nations Principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) and offered a presentation focused on Indigenous community-based research as part of the Voices of Impact speaker series.

“Indigenization is about more than visibility, it is about creating environments where Indigenous students feel supported, Indigenous voices are valued, and Indigenous knowledge is respected,” said Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director, Indigenous Initiatives. “The progress made this past year reflects a growing commitment across the college to do this work thoughtfully and with care, while recognizing there is still much to learn.”

Looking ahead, Durham College remains committed to continuing this work in collaboration with Indigenous communities, students, and employees. By building on the actions already underway, the college will continue to advance reconciliation in ways that are intentional, informed, and responsive.

Faculty Member Tanya Heck recognized as a WorldChefs Certified Pastry Chef

Durham College’s (DC) own Tanya Heck has been awarded a prestigious Worldchefs Global Certification.

An experienced chef who has taught at DC for over a decade, Heck is now a WorldChefs Certified Pastry Chef. This internationally recognized designation acknowledges her extensive experience in the culinary industry as well as her commitment to improvement and excellence.

To become certified, she completed a rigorous process including professional competency testing, a review of her qualifications and career achievements, and more.

“Pursuing this certification was both a personal and professional goal. I believe strongly in lifelong learning, and I want to model that mindset for my students and peers,” Heck said.

Her accomplishment further adds to the value of DC’s Culinary Management and Culinary Skills programs, which are delivered by faculty members who are both highly trained and internationally recognized. Students learn their trade in the state-of-the-art W. Galen Weston Centre for Food and work in the award-winning Bistro ’67 teaching restaurant, receiving training that is both current and aligned with international industry expectations.

As Heck and her colleagues in the Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science continue to provide students with the best in culinary education, she’ll proudly add this certification to her resume.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to have your work and growth recognized in this way,” she said. “It’s an honor to be recognized globally for the work I do every day in our classrooms, kitchens, and campus community — and it motivates me to keep pushing our program forward.”

Ten skilled trades students awarded Schulich Builders Scholarships

For the third year, Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades have made a profound difference in the lives of 10 Durham College (DC) students.

DC partners with the Schulich Foundation to award Schulich Builders Scholarships to students enrolling in full-time certificate and diploma programs in some of the most in-demand skilled trades fields. This year, five students received $20,000 scholarships for one-year programs and five received $40,000 scholarships for two-year programs, covering the cost of tuition, living expenses and tools.

For Electrical Engineering Technician student Stephen Pascoa, who hopes to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and become an electrician, the $40,000 scholarship is nothing short of a blessing.

“It has already allowed me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about how I was going to source more funding for my tuition, tools, books, and the travel costs to and from school,” he explained. “It also allows me to afford to pay for the equipment and medical help I need to mitigate my learning and physical disabilities.”

His classmate Dylan Martin is also preparing for a career in the electrical industry, and he believes the scholarship will have a similar effect for him.

“It will have a major impact on my studies and future plans by giving me financial support to be able to start a career in the trades,” he said. “It encourages and motivates me to keep on pursuing this career path and developing my skillset to become a qualified Master Electrician.”

This year’s recipients include:

Durham College 2025 Schulich Builders Scholarship winners:

Ziyad Aboo – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques

Raheem Acheampong – Electrical Engineering Technician

Levi Fournier – Crane Operation, Rigging and Construction Techniques

Zameer Ghulam Nabi – Mechanical Techniques – Plumbing

Nevyn Kempers – Electrical Engineering Technician

Bradley Magyar – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques

Connor Marmei – Electrical Techniques

Dylan Martin – Electrical Engineering Technician

Rishi Matheepan – Mechanical Technician – Millwright

Stephen Pascoa – Electrical Engineering Technician

Are you planning for a career in the skilled trades? Learn more about the Schulich Builders scholarship and how to apply. Applications open in March and close May 31.

Recognizing Black History Month at Durham College

This February, Durham College (DC) joins individuals and organizations across Canada in recognizing Black History Month — a time to honour the remarkable achievements, contributions, and leadership of Black Canadians, and to reflect on the histories and experiences that continue to shape our society.

DC is proud to showcase the Black Excellence and Achievements at Durham College content collection, highlighting the talents, leadership, and creativity of Black students, employees, and alumni whose work continues to shape learning and life across the college. From academic success to broader social impact, these stories reflect the depth and diversity of Black leadership at DC.

“At Durham College, Black History Month is both a celebration and a call to action. While we honour the accomplishments of Black individuals, we also recognize the systemic barriers and inequities that continue to affect Black communities,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, DC. “Anti-Black racism remains a reality, and confronting it requires sustained effort, accountability, and meaningful change. We are committed to amplifying Black voices and fostering a campus where everyone feels supported, can realize their full potential, and truly belongs.”

Throughout the month, DC is hosting a variety of events and activities designed to inspire learning, spark meaningful conversations, and encourage reflection and action. Highlights include a screening of Silent Voices, organized by the Faculty of Health Sciences in collaboration with the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, along with discussions and resources that support ongoing learning across campus.

“As a foundational element of Canadian History, the contributions and experiences of Black persons in our society should be something we all strive to engage with in an ongoing fashion year-round. Black History Month offers the Durham College community an opportunity to recommit to this ongoing journey of listening, learning, and acting alongside our Black students and employees,” said Dr. Sadie Goddard-Durant, Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. “Creating space for Black voices, lived experiences, and leadership strengthens our collective commitment to equity and support environments where Black brilliance can be affirmed, supported, and sustained — on our campuses and beyond.”

To honour history and reaffirm its commitment to equity and inclusion, DC will raise the Pan-African Flag at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses – a unifying symbol of Black liberation and solidarity for members of the Black/African diaspora.

By engaging the college community in learning, dialogue, and action, DC continues to build a culture grounded in respect, belonging, and opportunity for all.

From classrooms to careers: How Durham College is preparing students for an AI-driven workforce

In Durham College (DC) classrooms, students aren’t just learning course concepts — they’re building the skills that employers consider essential in today’s evolving workforce.

“We’re focused on preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow,” says Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how people learn and work, and Durham College is responding with intention – thoughtfully embedding emerging technologies into hands-on learning experiences that help our graduates develop the adaptability, creativity, and leadership skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”

This approach is evident across many DC programs, where students interact with AI tools trained on their course materials, using them to test ideas, refine research questions, and make informed decisions. The goal isn’t simply to get answers faster, but to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic technology skills — the very talents employers are looking for among graduates.

DC was an early adopter of AI, embracing it as a teaching and learning tool and taking a future-focused approach that equips both faculty and students with the knowledge and expertise to succeed in a technology-driven world.

For Jonathan Carrigan, a professor in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology, this evolution began with his own curiosity in 2023. “One week after ChatGPT exploded onto the scene, I experimented over the Christmas break and realized it would change everything,” he recalls. These early explorations led to a professional development session with 60 faculty members and eventually to a broader role supporting AI adoption across the college.

In Carrigan’s classrooms, AI is intentionally embedded to enhance student learning, not replace it. He creates a custom generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) for every course – an AI model trained on course materials to serve as 24/7 learning support. He also embeds AI literacy training into lessons, teaching students how to prompt effectively, evaluate outputs, and apply practices responsibly, skills they can carry into any professional setting.

“Artificial intelligence is like playing a guitar,” Carrigan explains. “Anyone can strum it, but it won’t make music unless you learn how to play it well.”

This philosophy is shaping the DC experience and students are seeing the impact. Sarah Adesuyi, a second-year Marketing – Business student, says AI has helped her approach assignments differently. “Professor Carrigan’s teaching methods feel balanced and realistic,” she says. “He shows us when AI can add value to enhance our analysis and understand why certain decisions work,” she says.

Fellow student, Ayah Akel, says learning to build custom GPTs has changed how she approaches learning altogether. “AI has become a thinking partner,” she explains. “I now feel confident using it strategically in class and eventually my future career.”

Alongside his teaching, Carrigan works as an AI consultant in DC’s Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), where he helps faculty members explore the technology in ways that align with their disciplines and student needs.

His current focus is extending beyond classroom tools, exploring how AI is reshaping the ways organizations operate, what employers value, and the skills graduates need to thrive. With job postings, hiring practices, and workplace expectations evolving faster than most curricula can keep up, Carrigan is examining what this means for program design, course development, and the competencies students will need to succeed.

By integrating AI resources and supporting faculty innovation, DC is equipping graduates with more than technical know-how — they leave with the confidence and skills to contribute in an AI-integrated economy.

Students can plan for success at Pathways to Further Education Fair

The Pathways to Further Education Fair is a can’t miss opportunity for Durham College (DC) students who are mapping out their academic future.

DC’s numerous partnerships and articulation agreements with post-secondary institutions across Ontario, Canada and the world allow our graduates to leverage the credits they’ve earned towards programs at other schools.

Students are invited to attend the Pathways to Further Education Fair on Tuesday, February 10 at the Whitby Campus and Wednesday, February 11 at the Oshawa Campus to connect with many of those schools and get a head start on their next credential. Registration is now open.

It’s a chance to explore all of your future opportunities in one place, according to Alexandra Bursey, Manager, Transfer Services.

“This event brings over 16 institutions right to your fingertips,” she said. “Whether you’re curious about what’s next or already have an institution in mind, nothing beats speaking directly with representatives who can answer your questions on the spot. You might even discover an opportunity you didn’t know existed.”

For students who want to get the most out of their post-secondary program, there are plenty of advantages to combining a college and university education, including cost-effectiveness.

Maddie Gulenchyn, Client Support and Engagement Representative on the Transfer Services team, discovered those advantages for herself. Years after graduating from DC in 2019, she decided to further her education at Ontario Tech University and work towards an Honours Bachelors of Arts in Educational Studies. With her DC credits, she was able to enter the third year of a four-year program.

“It’s never too late, or too early, to figure out your ultimate goal, and work towards it,” said Gulenchyn. “Pathways allow students to see what is possible for them, and gives them the opportunity to get their previous education recognized.”

DC students can learn more about their pathway options online. A list of institutions that will be attending the fair is also available.

“Whether you want to continue your journey at DC or explore other institutions, adding an extra credential can set you apart in the job market,” said Bursey. “Our pathways make it easier to build on what you’ve already achieved. Your future deserves options!”

DC welcomes winter semester with energy and excitement on campus

This winter, more than 2,000 new students are beginning their Durham College (DC) journey in programs that start in January to prepare for careers in a wide range of industries, including business, IT, skilled trades, science and technology, and more.

Together, with thousands of returning students, they have the opportunity to participate in a variety of orientation and academic events, to help them get settled, make connections and feel confident navigating college life.

“Our winter welcome is about more than just orientation — it’s about creating a sense of belonging from day one,” says Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. “Whether students are new to DC or returning to continue their studies, we want them to feel supported, engaged, and excited about the opportunities ahead.”

For students who are new to the country, connecting with the campus community is especially important. To support their transition to Canada, the International Education Office and Durham College Student Association are hosting a variety of activities, including a campus scavenger hunt, winter wellness workshop, and student-led networking event, to help international students feel at home at DC.

Johannes Ochensthaler, an international student from Munich, Germany, is starting the Marketing – Business Administration program this semester and looks forward to experiencing Canadian culture and adjusting to all the snow he has seen so far.

This intake also offers a number of future-focused programs designed specifically to meet the needs of in-demand industries, including:

With a focus on practical learning and real-world experience, these programs help students gain the necessary skills for rewarding careers in today’s rapidly evolving workforce.

It’s not too late to be a DC student and start classes in January – space remains available in select programs, offering flexible pathways to begin or continue post-secondary studies. We are here to help you get started. View a full list of programs online and learn more about how to become a student in a day.

Durham College seeking to honour exceptional graduates with 2026 Alumni of Distinction Award

From leading powerful local initiatives to making a global impact, more than 120,000 Durham College (DC) graduates are finding success in their careers and enriching their communities.

Each year, DC is proud to recognize the accomplishments of some of its most outstanding graduates through the Alumni of Distinction Award and nominations for the 2026 award are now open. 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.

“Our alumni are powerful ambassadors for Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, DC. “We are incredibly proud of the impact our alumni are having around the world and the Alumni of Distinction Awards allow us to celebrate their remarkable contributions while reminding our students what is possible.”

The more than 120 alumni honoured have come from a wide range of fields and include respected medical practitioners to accomplished broadcasters and leaders in sport.

The 2025 Alumni of Distinction included Jeremy Burns and Aaron Dale, co-founders of the Military Veterans Wellness Program; Chris Cull, a mental health advocate, motivational speaker, and filmmaker; Shawn Small, founder and president of RISE Integrated Sports + Entertainment; and Paula Sojo, co-founder of Ostome Fashion.

The nomination form is available online at durhamcollege.ca/alumniofdistinction and must be submitted to alumni@durhamcollege.ca before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6. As one of the college’s highest honours, the 2026 award recipients will be presented at DC’s Spring Convocation in June.

 

A Year in Review: 2025 at Durham College

Durham College (DC) marked another year of growth, achievement, and community impact in 2025. From launching bold new programs and strengthening industry partnerships, to celebrating a record-breaking Convocation and hosting thousands of visitors on campus, our students and employees continued to shine. Across athletics, applied research, and community initiatives, DC remained a place where talent is nurtured, curiosity is encouraged, and careers are launched.

Explore some of the highlights that made 2025 a year to remember.

News

Durham College unveiled a new Strategic Vision that will guide the institution’s priorities and decision-making for the years ahead, strengthening our focus on students, employees and community impact.

The Minister of Colleges and Universities Nolan Quinn visited DC to experience the hands-on learning of our in-demand culinary and hospitality programs alongside local MPPs.

A new bursary established by The Joyce Family Foundation is expanding access to preparatory programs at DC and helping remove financial barriers for learners.

At our state-of-the-art Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, we welcomed Ajax Fire and Emergency Services for a unique, hands-on emergency elevator rescue training session.

A $75 million provincial investment in post-secondary institutions will expand construction and planning programs across Ontario, ensuring DC will play a central role in strengthening the province’s workforce.

Thousands of future students and supporters visited campus at our Open Houses in Spring and Fall as well as our Program Information Nights, giving learners and families the chance to explore programs, meet employees and experience life at DC.

The annual Mature Student Event showcased why our supportive services and flexible delivery models make DC the perfect place to help returning students strengthen their professional skills.

We highlighted student ingenuity across engineering and sustainability challenges at the DC Innovation Showcase, where learners presented creative projects and connected with industry partners.

There was a real buzz on campus when DC was officially recognized as a Bee Campus by the Pollinator Partnership, recognizing our sustainability efforts to support pollinators and protect biodiversity.

DC marked a historic milestone at Spring Convocation 2025, celebrating the achievements of our career-ready graduates.

A collaborative applied research project was launched to empower parents with cognitive challenges by developing tools and supports that enhance daily living and family well-being.

A strategic partnership with NAIT was formed to advance AI literacy in Canada’s energy sector, equipping learners and industry with skills for emerging technologies.

The Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation expanded its capabilities with a new grant to strengthen industry-aligned training and applied research in craft beverage production.

Indigenous artist Emma Whiteye created space for reflection and connection within the DC community.

Accolades

DC was once again named one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges by Research Infosource Inc., affirming its national leadership in applied research and innovation.

Durham College faculty were recognized this year for excellence, innovation and teaching, with Dr. Teresa Avvampato honoured with the OSOT Innovation and Impact Award, Dave Hawey earning a prestigious Worldchefs Global Certification, and Professor Chris Daniel named an Outstanding Educator by OACETT.

The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture was honoured with a 2025 Durham Region Accessibility Award for its commitment to inclusive design and community impact.

DC student Abigail Ansell received golden recognition from Colleges and Institutes Canada, celebrating student leadership and achievement on a national stage.

Durham College graduate Daylan Belsey claimed first place in animation at the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge, highlighting student talent and creative achievement on a global stage.

DC proudly celebrated its 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients, recognizing graduates who are making meaningful contributions in their fields and communities. Two of those recipients were awarded one of Ontario’s highest honours for college alumni. Jeremy Burns and Aaron Dale, co-founders of the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP), received the Premier’s Award for their groundbreaking work supporting military veterans.

Durham College graduate Andre Ata received the prestigious New World Award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education in recognition of his contributions to global learning through transformative international experiences.

Programs and Academics

This year, we welcomed the first classes in our new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician and Interior Decorating programs.

DC’s new partnership with RPA Canada is creating an innovative pathway for accounting graduates to advance their professional credentials.

We partnered with Achēv to train licensed automotive service and body repair technicians on how to properly service electric vehicles.

Our partnership with Seven Generations Education Institute helped to expand access to healthcare education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in Northern Ontario.

A new program to strengthen mental health care skills for healthcare and community service professionals was launched to respond to growing demand for compassionate, evidence-informed care.

The AI Hub launched a new executive development program to help professionals get up to speed with artificial intelligence and its transformative impact.

Five new industry-driven programs launching in Fall 2026 were announced to help learners build career-ready skills aligned with evolving workforce needs.

An international partnership with Ayrshire College was launched to drive innovation in industry and skills development, expanding global learning and collaboration opportunities.

A new diploma-to-degree agreement with Trent University was established to accelerate talent development for the supply chain sector through a clear pathway from college to university.

Experiential Learning

Students applied their skills through online game development for the Barrett Centre, gaining real-world experience while supporting a community partner.

A partnership with Community Care Durham is delivering workplace training that supports personal support workers and strengthens local care services.

DC students deepened their learning by travelling around the globe, gaining global perspectives through international experiences.

DC partnered with the Lakeridge Health Foundation for the NightShift 2025 emergency simulation event, giving students and community members hands-on experience in fast-paced medical scenarios.

Sport Management and Sport Business Management students had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work as ambassadors for Major League Baseball and Stand Up To Cancer at Game 2 of the World Series.

DC Supply Chain students embraced experiential learning through real-world challenges, including the SAP ERPSIM competition and collaborative international projects.

Athletics

The Durham Lords completed a successful winter season, with men’s basketball capturing the OCAA championship and earning national silver, volleyball teams posting strong performances and the varsity curling squad making a memorable return.

DC volleyball players shone on the national stage, showcasing talent, teamwork and competitive excellence.

Sitting volleyball became a hit at DC, highlighting inclusive sport opportunities on campus.

The Durham Lords men’s basketball team captured the OCAA championship and earned CCAA silver, marking a standout campaign. Our volleyball teams also posted strong performances, and the revived curling squad made its mark on the ice.

The Fall 2025 season was another successful one for Lords, with our Women’s Rugby Sevens club became the first in OCAA history to win four consecutive provincial championships. The men’s rugby team brought home provincial silver while DCSA Executive Chairwoman Megan Bent, who is also serving as Student Governor on the DC Board of Governors, wrapped up her stellar collegiate rugby career and welcomed her sister as a fellow student.

As we close the chapter on 2025, we celebrate the achievements, creativity, and dedication of our students, employees, and partners, and look ahead with excitement to all that 2026 will bring to the Durham College community.