On May 17, Durham College (DC) formally recognized International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia (IDAHOT) by raising the pride flag at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses for the first time. 

Students and employees were encouraged to gather in front of the flag poles at the Student Services building, where they were joined by representatives from multiple community partners including PFLAG Durham and the AIDS Committee of Durham Region.

Meri Kim Oliver, vice-president of Student Affairs, DC, spoke about why acknowledging the day was important to the DC community. “The symbolism of raising a flag marks a point when we acknowledge the past and grieve for the ways in which we have interacted,” said Oliver. “It marks the present and optimism based on the changes that have allowed for today’s activities to take place and signals a future in which we will persevere to end discrimination based on homophobia, transphobia and biphopia.”  

DC strives to foster and sustain an environment of inclusiveness that empowers everyone to achieve their highest potential without fear of prejudice or bias. The Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion and Transitions, which organized the event on campus, is dedicated to ensuring that students feel welcome and supported during their post-secondary education.

 “The Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion and Transitions is focused on celebrating diversity,” said Allison Hector-Alexander, manager, DC Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion and Transitions. “We’re not here to encourage tolerance – we tolerate something we dislike. We’re here to generate awareness and encourage acceptance, ensuring every individual feels like they have a voice.”

Since 2004, May 17 has been recognized as IDAHOT, marking the day in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. First recognized in Montreal, IDAHOT is now celebrated in more than 130 countries, uniting millions of people in support for the upholding of human rights for all, irrespective of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

Ontario Power Generation (OPG) will continue its support of post-secondary students in Durham Region by renewing a decade-long partnership with Durham College (DC) and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT). The $5-million investment will support capital expenditures, educational programs, equipment, scholarships and bursaries for students at both institutions.

“We believe this partnership creates educational and research opportunities for students who go on to become leaders in our industry and our community,” says Jeffrey Lyash, OPG President and CEO. “OPG is proud to continue our partnership with Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology.”

“We are offering students access to the highest level of curricula in technical areas specific to the current nuclear industry,” says Don Lovisa, Durham College, President. “This renewed funding commitment will enable us to enhance our equipment and facilities and provide our students with a learning environment designed to prepare them for immediate entry into the workforce.”

“This partnership provides support for students facing financial barriers,” says Tim McTiernan, UOIT, President. “OPG’s investment provides our students with much needed access to high-quality education. It also demonstrates our university’s significance as an educator of Canada’s energy leaders.”

The funding, to be provided in annual installments over the next five years, will help with the acquisition of training and mock-up equipment for both the college and university. The funding will also support the university’s nuclear-engineer-in-residence position with its Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science.

DC will continue to align its science, apprenticeship, skilled trades and technology programs to meet employment criteria outlined by OPG in order to produce qualified graduates that meet the entry requirements for operations and maintenance programs within the energy industry.

Under the terms of the partnership, the college and university will work together on the implementation of bridging programs between the two institutions. This will enable DC students to enter UOIT degree programs with advanced standing in order to produce graduates with a greater range of technical skills and knowledge.

The collaboration between the three organizations began in November 2005 to meet the need for ‘career-ready’ workers available for employment in the Canadian nuclear industry and provide training opportunities for OPG employees to build their skills through industry-related college and university programs.

For nine years, Arlene de la Rocha has played an instrumental role in developing the Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) Honours program curriculum at Durham College (DC) and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT). On May 6, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) presented de la Rocha with one of its highest honours.

Professor de la Rocha was recognized with the prestigious 2016 HUB Fellowship for her demonstrated transformational leadership capacity and commitment to empowering nursing students to find a path that will develop their leadership strengths, whether at the clinical point-of-care or in traditional leadership positions. As the winner of the 2016 fellowship, de la Rocha, who is currently enrolled in her PhD in Nursing at Queen’s University will have the opportunity to participate in a week-long, one-on-one placement with RNAO’s chief executive officer Dr. Doris Grinspun.

“Receiving the HUB Fellowship is more than an honour – it’s the chance of a lifetime,” said de la Rocha. “Observing and working with Dr. Grinspun will provide me with invaluable insight into how she leads, motivates and empowers others, and I look forward to sharing all that I learn from her with my colleagues and students.”

Her leadership as a nursing educator includes her effort to bring greater realism to nursing education in a laboratory setting, which includes working with a research team aimed at introducing the use of technology such as iPads at the point of care for patients. She has also implemented a capstone project for fourth-year nursing students to help them identify emerging health issues.

“Arlene has established herself as a passionate, effective leader and we are thrilled to see her being recognized by the Ontario nursing community, said Judeline Innocent, executive dean, School of Health & Community Services, DC. “As an educator, innovator, researcher and mentor, she embodies the spirit of the HUB Fellowship in all facets of her career.”

Sponsored by HUB International, RNAO’s home and auto insurance provider, the fellowship recognizes an individual’s contributions to RNAO’s mandate: Speaking Out for Nurses, Speaking Out for Health. Nominated by their peers, recipients are chosen for their achievements in nursing and their commitment to RNAO.

 

A special group of Durham College (DC) supporters were honoured at the Centre for Food on May 2 when the college paid tribute to the employers who take part in its field placement and practicum programs.

Each year more than 5,000 students are given the opportunity to put their classroom experience to practical use in workplaces throughout Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). More than 600 businesses, non-profit organizations and government agencies serve as hosts for DC students in sectors including business, health, justice, science and technology.

When addressing attendees, Dr. Elaine Popp, vice-president, Academic, DC shared that field placements are a two-way street. They give students the opportunity to gain self-confidence and practical knowledge, while providing employers with a chance to share their knowledge with potential new members of their workforce.

“It is our sincere hope that you enjoy a sense of satisfaction and pride in knowing that you are helping to provide our students with the skills and expertise they need to take on an active role in your industries,” said Dr. Popp. “It’s a classic win-win situation and all of us at DC are keen to see it continue to grow and expand in the years ahead.”

That sentiment was echoed by Dr. Judeline Innocent, executive dean of the DC School of Health & Community Services, who shared  that employers have told her they enjoying working with DC students because they arrive well-prepared and ready to ask questions.

“That inquisitive nature is important to the health-care sector,” said Innocent. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen first-hand how someone with fresh eyes and a curious attitude can encourage new ideas and ways of thinking. Sometimes, inspiration comes from sources where we least expect it.”

A highlight of the evening were the remarks delivered by both DC students and graduates who spoke about the importance of building trust and support with their co-workers during their placements.

Joshua Cranney, a graduate of the Paralegal program, spoke about the value of his placement and the self-confidence he gained while working in the real world.

Sarah Harrison-Edge, who is in her final semester of the Communicative Disorders Assistant program, felt both welcomed and appreciated during her field placements.

“It was like I was already a part of the team because everyone valued my ideas, appreciated my input and were thankful for my help,” said Harrison-Edge. “I plan to and was encouraged to keep in touch with everyone I met at both agencies.”

The event also highlighted some of the organizations that have been involved as employer hosts for several decades, such as the Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences and Distress Centre Durham. Stephanie Ball, executive dean of the School of Justice & Emergency Services, summed up the impact of all of the college’s employer hosts, both past and present.

“Quite simply, when it comes to producing graduates who are smart, savvy and job-ready, we couldn’t do it without you,” she said.

For more information on being an employer host at Durham College, contact the field placement/practicum coordinator at the Durham College academic school which offers programs in your organization’s area of expertise.

Durham College has signed an agreement with the Chicago-based Siebel Institute of Technology (Siebel Institute), North America’s oldest and most prestigious brewing school, to deliver its craft brewing courses in Durham Region.

As the only Canadian post-secondary institution currently approved to deliver the institute’s world-renowned brewing curriculum, the agreement will enable DC to deliver three different courses at its Centre for Food (CFF).

“Durham College is bringing the gold standard in brewing education to Ontario’s thriving craft brewing community, which is comprised in large part by entrepreneurs who are looking to further develop both their business and product knowledge,” said Don Lovisa, president, DC. “The industry’s rapid growth has translated into a significant demand for brewers who know what it takes to make, market and sell great beer and DC is answering that call with this agreement.”

Designed for the professional development of people aspiring to build their career in Canada’s craft brewing industry, the three courses are a natural fit for the CFF where faculty and students are already working on a brew line, including related research and recipe development.

“We are excited to be involved in bringing brewing-industry training to Ontario,” said Keith Lemcke, vice-president, Siebel Institute. “We look forward to working with Durham College and the brewing community in Ontario towards helping to train the next generation of great Ontario brewers.”

Providing current and prospective brewing professionals with the practical, hands-on experience required to further develop their skills and expertise, the courses include:

• Brewing Microbiology, which provides the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to implement an effective microbiological quality control/quality assurance program.
• Brewing Technology, which offers comprehensive knowledge of the brewing process, brewing operation dynamics and issues affecting the industry.
• Sensory Analysis for Flavor Production and Control, which gives brewers the tools they need to effectively identify and control flavours and aromas in beer.

“From our first meeting with the management of Durham College we knew we would be working with professionals who were just as passionate about what was happening in craft brewing culture as they were about education,” said Lyn Kruger, president of Siebel Institute. “The groundwork they developed within the Ontario Craft Brewers Association and the surrounding brewing community has shown us the level of enthusiasm for professional brewing education that exists in Ontario, and we couldn’t be happier to be part of this program.”

The Siebel Institute has been an integral part of international brewing history for over 140 years and is widely recognized as the industry leader in brewing education. The institute’s alumni – which include names like Stroh and Busch – span more than 60 countries and can be found in almost every major brewery on earth.

“Our alliance with the Siebel Institute is all about DC’s ongoing response to an emerging and developing industry in Durham Region and the GTA, in particular the need for craft brewing education here at home,” said Lovisa. “We look forward to working together to effectively deliver the education Ontario microbrewers are telling us they need —training that until now was only available outside of Canada.”

Durham College (DC) is happy to share the news that it has raised $27,507.04 in support of United Way Durham Region through its annual United Way campaign, which ran this year from March 28 to April 8.

This year’s campaign saw funds collected via several different payment methods, but perhaps the most original idea was the college’s first annual United Way Food Table Challenge. Teams from DC’s academic schools and departments competed against each other in a battle for taste bud and fundraising supremacy to see who could raise the most funds as well as design the most creative table.

Adding to the incentive for employees to donate and raise money, was DC President Don Lovisa pledging to “Go Green for United Way”. Lovisa agreed to temporarily dye his hair green in support of United Way and in appreciation of DC’s generosity if the campus community was able to raise $25,000.

Surpassing that total by more than $2,000, the campaign saw Lovisa show off his new ‘do’ on April 21 when he presented United Way with a cheque for the funds raised while recognizing the winning Food Table Challenge teams with commemorative certificates.

DC is proud to support United Way and its role in supporting the communities in which our employees live and work.

Durham College announced today that it has received $22 million in funding from the provincial government toward the construction of the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) at the Oshawa campus. The announcement, which was made by Reza Moridi, minister of Training, Colleges and Universities, at an event held at the Oshawa campus this morning, represents one of the largest investments in DC by the provincial government since the college opened its doors in 1967.

The CFCE will replace the college’s aging Simcoe building, which was originally built as a temporary structure and opened in 1969. The new three-storey facility, a legacy project tied to DC’s 50^th anniversary in 2017, will bring together local, Indigenous and global communities, providing a new home for several of the college’s innovative and ground-breaking programs.

“Although our Simcoe building has served us very well over the past 50 years, leaving behind a wonderful legacy of teaching, learning and memories for our students, faculty members and administrative staff, it has reached its end of life,” said Don Lovisa, president, DC. “As we prepare to celebrate DC’s 50^th anniversary in 2017, we are excited to bridge our past with our future through the creation of a new facility where students, employees and the broader community can work together in ways that transcend traditional concepts of education. On behalf of everyone at DC, I extend my sincere thanks to the provincial government for its wonderful support in bringing our vision for the Centre for Collaborative Education to life.”

DC has continued to experience tremendous growth year after year. This includes the addition of more than 40 new programs in high-demand and emerging areas of study; expanding its daily academic hours; increasing the number of students enrolled in both summer and winter-month programs; and adding more than 3,000 post-secondary registration spaces since 2008.  

“In addition to creating a strong need for physical infrastructure at the Oshawa campus, our significant growth has positioned Durham College as a college of choice for students in Durham Region and well beyond,” said Lovisa. “The new Centre for Collaborative Education is a direct reflection of that growth combined with our ongoing commitment to building a high-quality and sustainable post-secondary education system that meets the needs of our students, the local community and today’s economy.

The CFCE will house the following:

• The Aboriginal Student Centre.
• The Entrepreneurship Centre including the Spark Centre.
• Global, Open and Collaborative Space that will enable faculty, students and the broader community to use technology in creative ways to gain unprecedented access to students, educators, thought leaders, subject matter experts and other visionaries from more than 40 countries around the world.
• Health science facilities including state-of-the art classrooms and labs.
• Foundation programs designed to prepare students for the continuation of post-secondary education at college or university.

Final plans and costs for the project are still being determined including ongoing work with the government to obtain additional funding. In addition, the college will be launching a capital campaign designed to raise financial support for the construction of the building in partnership with individuals, corporations, community partners and alumni over a two-year period.  

While it’s no secret that Aeroplan© Miles and TD Points can be used toward the purchase of airline flights to exotic destinations, Durham College (DC) students can now use them for something a little closer to home – the cost of their college tuition.

Thanks to a new agreement between DC and HigherEdPoints.com, students now have the option to redeem their Aeroplan© Miles and TD Points into credits that can be used toward their program fees. As an example, 35,000 Aeroplan© Miles translates into $250 worth of credits.  Students can also redeem Aeroplan© Miles and TD Points from family members and friends to help cover their educational costs since anyone can donate their points to an individual student or to a DC student in need.

In addition, students can also use HigherEdPoints.com to pay off portions of their Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) loans, either while they are still in school to get a head start on reducing their debt load or after they graduate.

“This partnership is another example of the innovative ways we can support students in funding their post-secondary education,” said Norah Warmuth, manager, Accounts Receivable/Accounts Payable, Durham College. “HigherEdPoints are a complement to the range of financial payment options available at the college, providing our students with one more avenue to ensure they can access one of our more than 140 market-driven programs.”

To learn more about the HigherEdPoints.com program at DC, please visit: http://www.higheredpoints.com/.

More than 3,000 prospective students, their families and the community at large got a look inside Durham College (DC) on April 2 as the school hosted its annual Spring Open House.

Showcasing the Oshawa and Whitby campuses and the Pickering Learning Site, the event gave attendees an opportunity to learn more about the college’s programs, services and facilities first-hand while meeting with current students, faculty, staff and alumni.

DC Crew members were also on hand to lead tours through the college’s state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories and provide information on DC’s extensive list of student services. Information sessions were also held topics such as the admissions process, financial aid, academic pathways and career planning.

“Open House is a great way for potential students and their families to learn more about Durham College while having the opportunity to experience our learning environment for themselves,” said Don Lovisa, president, DC. “The entire Durham College family did a great job sharing the DC experience with our visitors.”

Those who missed Spring Open House are still in luck – tours of the college are still available and can be arranged by visiting www.durhamcollege.ca/campustours emailing campustours@durhamcollege.ca or calling 905.721.3000.

Durham College (DC) President Don Lovisa went door-to-door this week making special deliveries to six lucky students. Travelling to several local communities, Lovisa hand delivered official DC welcome packages and swag to randomly selected individuals who will begin their studies at the college this September.

“Delivering the welcome packages was a fun way to demonstrate our mission statement that at Durham College, the student experience comes first,” said Lovisa. “The opportunity to meet with students face to face and personally welcome them to DC is a great example of the high level of service we strive to deliver on campus every day.”

Lovisa travelled to Bowmanville, Port Hope, Oshawa, Whitby and Pickering to deliver the packages, and captured the moments with students on camera and video that was shared via the college’s social media accounts. Follow @DC_Pres on Twitter and DC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as we continue to share Lovisa’s door-to-door welcome of new students next week.