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Durham College students recognized with national chemistry awards

Durham College (DC) is celebrating the achievements of nine students from the Faculty of Science and Engineering who have been recognized by the Canadian Institute for Chemistry (CIC) Toronto Chapter for their academic excellence, perseverance and commitment to the chemical sciences.

The students received CIC Silver Medals and Book Awards during the 2026 Student Awards Ceremony. The awards recognize outstanding achievement among students enrolled in chemistry-related programs across Ontario.

The CIC Silver Medal is awarded to the student with the highest cumulative grade point average entering their final year of study. The honour recognizes sustained academic excellence, strong technical knowledge and practical skills, and dedication to the field of chemistry.

This year’s Silver Medal recipients from DC are:

The CIC Book Award recognizes the most improved student entering their final year and celebrates perseverance, growth, and commitment to learning.

DC’s 2026 Book Award recipients are:

“These awards recognize not only academic achievement, but also the determination, growth and passion our students bring to their studies every day,” said Kara Woods, Associate Dean, Faculty of Science and Engineering. “We are proud to see their accomplishments recognized by the Canadian Institute for Chemistry and grateful for the opportunities these industry connections create for our students as they prepare for careers in science and technology.”

The Canadian Institute for Chemistry represents thousands of professional chemists, chemical engineers and technologists across Canada. Recognition through the CIC awards highlights the high standard of learning and student achievement within Durham College’s science and engineering programs.

By fostering strong connections with industry organizations and supporting student success, DC continues to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to contribute to Canada’s science and technology sectors.

DC congratulates all award recipients on this honour and wishes them continued success as they complete their studies and pursue rewarding careers in science and industry.

Durham College launches military-connected college initiative

In recognition of Canadian Armed Forces Day on June 7, Durham College (DC) is proud to announce it is a military-connected college (MCC), expanding its efforts to support military members, Veterans, and their families.

As an MCC, DC is strengthening pathways from service to post-secondary education and onward to meaningful careers, while helping ensure those with military connections are recognized, welcomed, and connected across every stage of their academic journey.

Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education, brings personal experience to the initiative. MacDonald served as a Canadian Armed Forces Reservist for 17 years while studying and working at DC.

“My service was only possible because DC was open to being flexible around my training and tasking commitments,” said MacDonald. “Our goal is to ensure military-connected learners have access to that same flexibility and support. We are proud to welcome them to DC and to ensure that they feel seen and supported throughout their studies. These learners bring leadership, discipline and valuable lived experience into our classrooms. Our role is to reduce barriers where we can and help them translate their experience into academic and career success.”

To further support this community, DC has launched a new online resource hub designed specifically for those whose lives have been shaped by military service.

The new MCC webpage serves as a central hub for information and services available to prospective and current learners with military connections, including prior learning recognition, academic advising, financial guidance, career counselling, flexible learning options, and connections to community resources.

Located in Durham Region, a community with deep military roots, DC is proud to build on longstanding local connections to service and leadership. As this work continues, DC will expand services, partnerships, and learning opportunities that help members of the military-connected community succeed in their studies and future careers.

Recognizing National Indigenous History Month at Durham College

Durham College (DC) recognizes National Indigenous History Month this June by honouring the histories, cultures, languages, knowledge systems, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Turtle Island.

“As champions of lifelong learning, the college remains committed to advancing reconciliation by strengthening understanding, upholding Indigenous rights, and continuing this work alongside Indigenous communities and partners,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.

At DC, these efforts are guided by the Indigenization Statement, which underscores the importance of listening to Indigenous voices, broadening collective awareness of history and its ongoing impact, and embedding Indigenous knowledge and perspectives within the institution.

This commitment is reflected in DC’s educational experiences, campus spaces, and initiatives.

In May, DC marked an important milestone with an Indigenous Ground Blessing Ceremony at the Whitby Campus, recognizing the beginning of a new garden installation. The space will support the campus food forest while creating opportunities for reflection, learning, and engagement with Indigenous approaches to sustainability and regenerative agriculture.

The Braiding Learning Framework also continues to shape the DC experience by bringing together different ways of knowing to support collaborative and culturally responsive environments.

Throughout the month, students and employees can participate in several activities, including:

DC will continue to foster dialogue, reflection, and engagement throughout National Indigenous History Month and beyond.

Pride Month highlights belonging and allyship at Durham College

Pride Month at Durham College (DC) is an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions, experiences and perspectives of 2SLGBTQQIA+ students, employees who help shape DC’s welcoming and respectful college community.

Throughout June, the Progress Pride Intersex Inclusive Flag will fly at DC’s Oshawa and Whitby campuses as an expression of support, solidarity and belonging.

“Pride Month is both a celebration and a reminder that progress is ongoing,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “While important strides have been made, we also recognize that 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals continue to face barriers, bias and injustice. We all share a responsibility to create a culture of inclusion through our actions, decisions, and everyday interactions.”

At DC, fostering inclusive spaces is part of the college’s ongoing commitment to creating a people-centred environment where students and employees feel welcomed, valued, respected and able to be themselves. This includes reviewing policies and practices, strengthening understanding across DC, and continuing efforts to address inequities and discrimination.

The DC Library is featuring a curated collection of Pride Month resources that encourage learning, reflection and allyship through diverse stories and lived experiences, inviting students and employees to explore new viewpoints and strengthen their understanding of 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities.

Enactus DC students take on Canada’s top teams at Nationals in Montreal

Durham College (DC) students with Enactus DC advanced to the semifinals at the 2026 Enactus Canada National Exposition on the strength of their sustainable project, Second Sole, which developed a process to clean and recycle nitrile gloves into a reusable material that can be resold to manufacturers.

Competing against much larger institutions, our Enactus DC students presented their work with clarity and confidence at the live, presentation-based competition in Montreal earlier this month. Enactus hosts the event each year as part of their commitment to help students develop leadership skills by building real, community-based projects that address social, economic, and environmental challenges.

That approach aligns with Durham College’s focus on experiential learning, which emphasizes applying classroom learning in real-world contexts, building industry connections, and developing career-ready skills through hands-on experience.

“This is experiential learning at its best,” said Jennifer Bedford, faculty advisor with the team. “Our students took a real project, measured real results, and communicated that work with confidence on a national stage.”

The event also highlighted alumni impact, with former Enactus DC president Heather Brown recognized as Enactus Alumni of the Year.

For Cindy Tran, a Video Production student and media lead on the Second Sole team, it was an unforgettable experience.

“Representing Durham College on the national stage was nerve-wracking, but incredibly rewarding,” they said. “Being part of Enactus has shown me what real leadership and teamwork look like, and how students can turn an idea into a project with real-world impact. I’m grateful for the support of our faculty advisor Jennifer, and proud of what our team accomplished together.”

Outgoing team president Jonathan Grant (Environmental Technician) also received a Founder’s Bursary recognition this year for his role in the Second Sole project, highlighting the leadership development that Enactus builds alongside project impact.

“What makes me most proud is the personal growth I saw within our team throughout the year. Watching members step outside of their comfort zones and develop confidence in themselves was incredibly rewarding,” he said. “For me, Second Sole became more than just an environmental initiative, it became proof of what students can accomplish when they believe in an idea and work together consistently toward it.”

The team will be in good hands next year with David Moge (Supply Chain Management – Global) taking over as president, and he’s excited to carry the project forward.

“Being part of Enactus DC has really shown me what’s possible when a team is passionate, committed, and working toward something bigger than themselves,” said Moge. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved this year, and excited to build on that foundation and keep pushing our team to grow.”

Students who want to learn more, explore current projects, or get involved can visit the Enactus DC website.

Durham College hosts provincial leaders to highlight healthcare programs

Durham College (DC) welcomed three provincial leaders to its Oshawa campus for an in-depth look at how the college is helping ensure that Ontario’s healthcare system will be supported by a highly skilled, frontline workforce for decades to come.

On May 22, the Honourable Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security; the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and Acting Minister of Infrastructure, and MPP for Durham; and Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby and Parliamentary Assistant to the Ministers of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, and Children, Community and Social Services, toured Durham College’s state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical learning spaces used by students in the Practical Nursing, Personal Support Worker (PSW) and Paramedic programs.

“It was a pleasure to welcome Minister Quinn, Minister McCarthy and MPP Coe for a firsthand look at how Durham College is preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through career-focused, hands-on learning,” said DC President, Dr. Elaine Popp. “We value our strong relationship with the provincial government and were proud to demonstrate how our students are gaining the skills and experience needed to make an immediate impact in their careers and our communities.”

Students from the Faculty of Health Sciences programs showcased the training opportunities and industry-standard equipment that are supporting their education. The demonstrations included an explanation of the importance of sterile technique in caring for a wound, the proper method for transferring a patient to a wheelchair, and treating an adult experiencing heart attack symptoms.

“Ontario’s colleges play a critical role in preparing the next generation of nurses, PSWs, and paramedics that protect the province’s health-care system,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “It was a pleasure to visit Durham College to tour their world-class health-care simulation labs and clinical spaces where students are learning the hands-on, in demand skills they need for successful careers as they save and improve lives across Ontario.”

For Elias Faiz, the unique experience underscored his commitment to preparing for a future career in nursing.

“The program has been great. It’s everything I was looking forward to,” said the first-year Practical Nursing student. “The instructors are excellent, the lab rooms are up to date and we have amazing equipment.”

Personal Support Worker student Lucy Williams also took part in a demonstration to display the effectiveness of the experiential learning techniques that are incorporated into her program.

“It’s one thing to sit in a classroom, but it’s so much more helpful to be in a lab setting where you can use equipment and figure out the mechanics of everything,” she said.

Durham College remains committed to delivering high‑quality programs that directly support the growing need for skilled nursing, PSW, and paramedic professionals.

Provincial commitment of nearly $1.3 million will advance the growth of skilled trades training at Durham College

Durham College (DC) is expanding apprenticeship training opportunities and enhancing hands-on learning through a provincial investment to support skilled trades education.

The announcement was made at DC’s Whitby campus today by the Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge, alongside the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Acting Minister of Infrastructure, and MPP for Durham, and Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. They were joined by DC leadership, Board members, employees and students.

Totalling $1.28 million, the contribution was provided through Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant program and will strengthen apprentice training and modernize learning environments at DC.

This funding will enable the purchase of industry-standard equipment and upgrades to instructional spaces, including electronic system trainers, a scissor lift, an alignment machine and tool storage cabinets. Facility modifications will also allow DC to expand training capacity in in-demand sectors.

“The Ontario government’s investment in Durham College will have a significant impact on our students, apprentices and communities, increasing our capacity to deliver high-quality skilled trades training and reinforcing our ability to support key sectors that drive economic growth,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of DC. “We value our ongoing partnership with the province and its continued support in helping Durham College respond to labour market needs in Durham Region and across Ontario.” 

The investment will directly benefit apprenticeship and trades programs related to cook, electrical and welding disciplines while strengthening DC’s ability to deliver practical, industry-aligned education in areas experiencing strong labour market demand.

Ontario is expected to require an additional 400,000 skilled trades workers over the next decade to meet housing, infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and transportation projects across the province.

At the event, Tania Clerac, Executive Dean, Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship, Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology, and Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science, highlighted the importance of broadening pathways to careers in the trades.

“What makes this announcement especially important is the focus on increasing access and participation for women, Indigenous peoples, and newcomers — groups that have historically been underrepresented in the skilled trades,” said Clerac. “By reducing barriers and creating clear pathways into apprenticeship and employment, we are helping to build a more inclusive, diverse, and resilient workforce.”

DC continues to work closely with government and industry partners to prepare graduates for high-demand careers through applied learning and industry-connected training experiences.

Learn more about skilled trades and apprenticeship training at Durham College.

Announcing DC’s 2026 Alumni of Distinction

Every year, Durham College (DC) recognizes exceptional graduates through its Alumni of Distinction Awards, celebrating alumni who are making meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.

The 2026 Alumni of Distinction recipients – Carrie-Anne Atkins, Matthew Canning, Dr. Danna Paulson, and Rachael Wraith – will be celebrated at Convocation in June and join more than 120 outstanding graduates who have been recognized by DC with this prestigious award.

While each recipient has followed a unique career path, what they do share is a connection to DC and a commitment to serving their communities, advancing their industries, and mentoring future generations.

“My education allowed me to pursue a career where helping people is my North Star,” said Canning, a 2009 graduate of DC’s Practical Nursing program.

From leading impactful local initiatives to driving change on a global scale, DC alumni continue to make a difference while inspiring future generations of students.

“One of the college’s highest honours, our Alumni of Distinction Awards give us the opportunity to highlight some of the many incredible individuals who are a part of our rapidly growing alumni network,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Carrie-Anne, Matthew, Danna and Rachael are inspiring examples for graduating students and I look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.”

  • Carrie-Anne Atkins, Public Relations, Class of 1998

    Carrie-Anne Atkins is a senior strategic communications and stakeholder relations professional at Ontario Power Generation, currently Senior Manager, Corporate Relations & Projects at the Wesleyville Site, where she builds trusted relationships and advances key initiatives. A recognized leader in Durham Region, she has served in numerous volunteer positions across civic, philanthropic, business, environmental, and community organizations, including as President of the Durham College Alumni Association, Board Director of the Parkwood National Historic Site, President of Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Chair of the Durham Community Foundation. She is a strong ambassador for DC, building partnerships between the nuclear industry and the college that have resulted in program development and enhanced learning opportunities for students. Nationally, Atkins contributes to leadership development and gender equity in the nuclear sector through Women in Nuclear Canada and collaborates with government, industry, and communities to shape public understanding of energy and infrastructure projects.

  • Matthew Canning, Practical Nursing, Class of 2009

    Matthew Canning is the Clinical Director of Ontario’s largest in-person PrEP clinic, where he leads a multidisciplinary team delivering comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment services. The clinic serves more than 5,000 patients annually and provides both HIV-focused and primary care to a largely uninsured population. He is deeply committed to equitable access to HIV prevention and treatment, and to advancing the role of Nurse Practitioners in achieving this goal. His work has contributed to system-level improvements, including collaboration with the FAST-HIV program to support rapid linkage to HIV prevention services from emergency departments, and to the evolution of Ontario’s VitaLink program aimed at reducing financial barriers to laboratory testing. In addition to clinical leadership, he has served on HIV research advisory boards focused on expanding care for women and gender-diverse populations, was a part of the scientific steering committee for Canada’s first injectable PrEP (CAB-LA) guidance, and is a contributing author to the Canadian Family Practice Guidelines (2nd edition).

  • Dr. Danna Paulson, Dental Hygiene, Class of 2010

    Dr. Danna Paulson is a tenure-track Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Beginning her career in Ontario and then internationally in the Cayman Islands, she gained extensive experience in general, pediatric, and orthodontic dentistry before relocating to Minnesota to explore opportunities in teaching and research. A nationally recognized mentor, she demonstrates a dedication to lifelong learning and contributions to education, research, and leadership within her profession. In her role as Chair of Dental Hygiene Admissions at the University of Minnesota, she has contributed to a holistic review process that considers applicants’ broader experiences, strengths, and potential for success alongside academic achievement. Her scholarly work focuses on oral health-related quality of life and patient-centred outcomes research across diverse populations. In addition to her academic accomplishments, she has directly helped improve oral health access by organizing, attending, and expanding student involvement in community fluoride varnish clinics serving underserved adults and children in partnership with churches and schools, participating in Give Kids a Smile events and school-based oral health education programs, and volunteering in National Health Week initiatives.

  • Rachael Wraith, Public Relations, Class of 2007

    Rachael Wraith is an accomplished leader with nearly 20 years of experience in strategic communications, public engagement, and reputation management. As Associate Vice President at Global Public Affairs, Canada’s leading government relations and strategic communications firm, she provides senior counsel to national and international clients across various economic sectors. Prior to Global, she spent a decade in the public service and acted as a Public Information Officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in her career, she worked for an environmental NGO on key files in conservation, sustainability, water quality, and climate change. These efforts earned her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 25 Environmentalists under 25. A champion for DC and real-world experience, she has remained connected to the college by sharing her knowledge and inspiring future communications professionals as a Program Advisory Committee Chair, guest speaker, and mentor.

Convocation 2026 takes place from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 18 at the Tribute Communities Centre.

Largest gift in Durham College’s history supports the future of sustainable urban agriculture

Durham College (DC) has received multimillion-dollar, long-term funding from the Barrett Family Foundation, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college’s 59-year history.

This transformational donation will amplify the impact of the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), a community-based living lab where DC students and community members gain hands-on learning experiences through urban agriculture programming and operations. Learning opportunities will be enhanced through new programs, expanded scholarships and bursaries, and open educational resources. The purchase of new equipment and technologies will ensure graduates are career-ready, with the knowledge and skills to advance sustainable practices in the agriculture industry.

“We are deeply grateful for the Barrett Family Foundation’s continued investment in Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “This support reflects the power of our partnership — creating future-focused learning environments for students while strengthening connections between education and the evolving needs of communities and industries. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the future of sustainable urban agriculture in Durham Region and beyond.”

Since opening in 2023, the Barrett Centre has cultivated thriving partnerships rooted in a commitment to developing strong, locally sourced food supplies and educating future generations about nutrition and the importance of diverse food systems. To date, more than 37,000 community members have participated in workshops and activations, and over 9,000 pounds of food have been donated to local food banks and partners.

The Barrett Centre aims to be a benchmark institution helping to shape the future of sustainable food systems. This includes driving systems change across Canada and globally, empowering communities to replicate and scale the successful farming operations already established at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm and the college’s Whitby campus.

“Durham College is a leader in urban agriculture education,” said the Barrett Family Foundation. “Our financial contribution reflects our shared belief that sustainable urban agriculture is a key factor to building more resilient, food secure communities while also creating rewarding career opportunities.”

The Barrett Centre currently features approximately two acres of productive market gardens and orchards, an apiary, season extending hoop houses, the Food Literacy Innovation Zone, and an accessible indoor hydroponic farm – the first of its kind at a Canadian post-secondary institution. From June to October, the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm is open to the public during its Farm Gate Sales, when community members are invited to tour the farm and purchase fresh, low-cost produce grown on-site. Visit the Barrett Centre website to learn more.

Durham College springs into a new semester

More than 650 first-year students launched their academic journeys at Durham College (DC) this spring, starting in career-focused programs such as Computer Programming, Early Childhood Education and Personal Support Worker.

“Each semester brings new opportunities at Durham College, as we prepare students for rewarding careers in high-demand fields such as skilled trades, health care, engineering, technology, and more,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “We’re proud to welcome students into an environment where they can build skills, gain real-world experience, and develop the confidence to contribute to their professions and communities.”

To help students feel connected and ready as they started the new semester, they were invited to attend Academic Welcome, where they met with faculty members and learned more about what to expect in their program.

For Ishika Raj Bagga, a first-year Dental Assisting student from India, starting at DC marks an important step toward building her career in Canada. The Academic Welcome session helped her feel more confident as she met fellow classmates and got ready for her first day of class.

A variety of activities are scheduled throughout May and June to foster connection and campus pride, and help students settle into life at DC, including a puppy social and ice cream days, open skating events at the Campus Ice Centre, and a Toronto Blue Jays Game – organized by the Durham College Student Association. Mature Student Coffee Chats also offer a welcoming space for students balancing work, school, and other responsibilities to connect with peers.

Considering your future at DC? Program Info Nights are taking place on May 12 and 13. Join us to learn how DC can be your Best. Decision. Ever.