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Durham College raising funds to support students experiencing food insecurity

With the rising cost of food across Ontario, supporting students experiencing food insecurity is more important than ever.

Durham College (DC) is currently raising funds to support the Food Insecurity Bursary which helps provide immediate assistance to students who are navigating these unforeseen financial challenges. Each year, the DC community comes together to support this valuable initiative that helps students and their families during the holiday season.

Last year, the bursary distributed more than $80,000 to support 457 students and their families.

“I am a single mother of four children and have limited funding,” said Jazmine, a DC student who received the bursary in 2022. “With rising costs, groceries are getting really expensive. I am thankful that DC has provided the Food Insecurity Bursary, which helped me and my family so much last year.”

This year, the need is expected to be even greater, said Tara Koski, dean, Students.

“With the escalating costs of living and grocery prices this year, this bursary is even more critical as economic pressures faced by our students have intensified the issue of food insecurity,” said Koski. “If we can help alleviate some of that pressure, it allows students to maintain their focus on academics and their future success.”

The Durham College Alumni Association is matching the first $10,000 raised so every dollar contributed has twice the power to make a positive change in students’ lives, said Linda Flynn, associate vice president, Office of Development and Alumni Affairs.

“We are deeply grateful for our community who continually come together in times of need to ensure our students are well supported and can focus on their learning,” said Flynn.

Donations are welcome until December 31 and gifts of more than $20 are eligible for a charitable donation receipt for income tax purposes in the 2023 tax year. Donations are now being accepted online.

Are you a student who needs a little extra help this season? Learn more about applying for the Food Insecurity Bursary.

Develop global skills and awareness at Durham College

Students at Durham College (DC) can become true citizens of the world with a unique Global Competency Recognition program that is now available on DC Connect.

‘Get Global’ invites all students to expand their knowledge in four key areas: cultural awareness, global connections, global learning and global sustainability. By developing global skills and awareness, students will prepare themselves to thrive in our rapidly changing and increasingly connected world.

“Durham College is committed to leveraging and growing our positive impact on our community to help it prosper and diversify. And our community is local as well as global,” said Janine Knight-Grofe, director of International Education. “We have a responsibility to prepare students to be globally competent, so that they can better engage in the world thoughtfully but also productively. It’s about making them better, more well-rounded individuals who are also more employable.”

Participants in the program can complete a variety of activities to earn points. There are many different options, from taking part in a Faculty-Led Classroom Abroad (FLCA) trip to attending a cultural event on or off campus or learning a new language. Once they’ve collected 100 points, students will earn a Global Learner digital badge and a certificate at graduation.

The program is relatively new, but a handful of students completed it before graduation this year.

“The students that go through it see a lot of value,” said Knight-Grofe.

One such student is Tasharna Thompson-Henny, a 2023 graduate of the Project Management program. An international student from Jamaica, she jumped at the chance to expand her knowledge of other cultures.

“It helped me to really function better in Canada and also to have a greater understanding of dealing with a different, diverse set of people on a day-to-day basis,” she said.

Canadian-born students can also benefit greatly from the program, according to Knight-Grofe.

“All students equally contribute to global thinking, have a role to play in addressing global challenges, and benefit personally, academically and professionally from global competency.”

All students who take part in the program must start with a module on Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation, which is crucial according to Rogier Ten Kate, program coordinator for the International Business Management graduate certificate.

“We recognize that globalization and internationalization can perpetuate global imbalances through neocolonial practices. So, it’s critical that anti-colonialism underpins global competency actions and activities at Durham College,” he said. “The best way to understand and reflect on this is through learning about Indigenous histories.”

Thompson-Henny found those studies particularly helpful in increasing her knowledge of her adopted home.

“It gave me a better understanding of what Indigenous people went through. My level of appreciation just increased significantly.”

For students who want to expand their knowledge and appreciation of other cultures, the Get Global program is available now.

DC students cook up gold medal finish in culinary competition

For the second year in a row, Durham College (DC) students have struck gold as they were crowned Canada’s best new student chefs at Taste Canada’s Cooks the Books Student Culinary Competition.

This year, second-year Culinary Management students Miguel Alves Dos Santos Fonseca and Jess Dalziel were selected to represent DC and they plated up their winning dish of Brazilian beef hearts, farofa, pickled beets, glazed carrots, crispy tripe and chimichurri on October 29.

Fonseca described the excitement of winning.

“I heard my name and I screamed before everyone else started clapping,” he said.

Before facing off in the competition kitchen, Miguel and Jess spent long hours perfecting their dish in DC’s state-of-the-art culinary labs to ensure they could execute it in the 45-minute time limit. They looked to their peers in the Culinary Management program to offer honest feedback as they developed their recipe.

Part of the challenge was using sponsored ingredients including Canadian beef, California prunes, Club House spices and Tabasco sauce. Miguel incorporated aspects of his Brazilian heritage while Jess brought inspiration from Hungarian cuisine.

For example, when incorporating the prunes, Miguel turned to a traditional Brazilian side-dish called farofa, which is a cassava flour toasted with a fat like butter or oil. But there are a thousand versions of the recipe including one that incorporates bananas.

“I thought maybe the prunes would work because it’s sweet as well and with the meat, you know it’ll be a little spicy.”

Chef Peter Lee, the DC faculty member who mentored the pair, congratulated the them.

“The recipe is delicious,” he said. “The meaty flavour of heart is balanced well with the acidity of pickled beets and sweetness of California prunes. Each school had to choose a different cut of beef, we chose to showcase unpopular cuts as a challenge to ourselves and show they can taste great.”

Lee said students selected to represent DC in culinary competitions are dedicated to training and sacrifice many hours to perform at a high level.

“It allows eager students to show their passion for their craft,” he said. “It allows us faculty to push students to have success at a high level. I do not want to just participate in competitions, I want to win.”

Miguel credits the Culinary Management program for setting him up for success.

“What DC helps us do is really build that work ethic,” he said. “Many of our chefs, they really focus on that point and it’s really important.”

Interested in a career in food? DC has career-focused programs that prepare students to succeed.

Photo credit: Stephen Chu

Visitors fall for Durham College at Open House

At Fall Open House, future students learned why Durham College (DC) is the best choice for their post-secondary education.

The Oshawa and Whitby campuses were filled with more than 2,300 visitors on Saturday, November 4. The DC community was out in full force at both campuses, with alumni, faculty, current students and employees sharing their knowledge and experience.

Attendees got a taste of everything DC has to offer, from state-of-the-art facilities like the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre and the Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology to our 145+ career-driven programs and support services.

Prospective students spoke to members of our expert faculty and explored labs and learning spaces. Registered attendees were entered into a draw to win a $5,000 tuition credit, and students were able to apply for their chosen program during the event.

Visitors to the Whitby campus were treated to culinary demonstrations by faculty members and students. In Oshawa, cosmetic techniques were on display at the Centre for Collaborative Education, while future paramedic students benefited from live patient care demonstrations.

Open House also had a lot to offer for current students who are interested in continuing their education with graduate certificates, honours bachelor’s degrees and other options.

DC will welcome prospective students once again for Program Information Nights on Tuesday, January 16 (Oshawa) and Wednesday, January 17 (Whitby). Campus tours and information sessions can also be scheduled online.

Durham College Tech Talk educates guests on the power of Intellectual Property

More than 30 local business owners and founders heard from intellectual property (IP) experts on October 27 about the importance of an IP strategy, a critical component for any business and often a subject that entrepreneurs feel unfamiliar with. The event, hosted by Durham College (DC), featured an industry expert panel, a Q&A session, as well as networking to help foster collaborative relationships between the college and local talent in Durham Region.

“Education is the cornerstone of success for any business, and in today’s competitive landscape, IP knowledge is a critical asset, which is why events like this are so important,” said Joshua Cohen, commercialization specialist at DC. “At Durham College, we believe that by fostering a deeper understanding of intellectual property, we are not only safeguarding businesses but also nurturing innovation and growth in the market.”

The event comes a month after DC’s Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) announced a $300,000 grant from Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), to help small businesses and start-ups take the next steps to bring their products and services to market. By enhancing its services and providing commercialization expertise, DC is better equipped to educate its clients and student entrepreneurs on developing an IP strategy and increase their understanding of the commercialization process – steps that are crucial to the long-term success of their businesses.

The Tech Talk expert panelists discussed industry challenges, inside perspectives and personal testimonies, and included Dr. Chris Webb, Strategic Advisor at IPON; Tony Orsi, Patent Agent and Partner at Bereskin & Parr; and Michael Stanfield, Founder and COO at Inventing Future Technology Inc. (IFTech). One commonality between the panellist’s advice was the significance of having a strong IP strategy, which plays a pivotal role in the protection and growth of a business, especially when it attracts potential investors.

“In my 15 years in Silicon Valley, I saw investors seek to understand how the idea for a given business was protected, so that their investment was also protected,” observed Webb. “Before they are willing to provide large sums of money backing an idea, they want to make sure no other companies can easily pursue the same market.”

In collaboration with IPON, ORSIE will continue to serve as a hub for innovation, fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for its clients, students and faculty to succeed by offering free IP consultancy services, market research analyses, and investment opportunities. A recording of the Tech Talk is available for those who missed the event. You can also learn more about DC’s ORSIE and IP services online.

Durham College celebrates career-ready graduates at Fall Convocation

Durham College (DC) celebrated the academic achievements of nearly 2,000 career-ready graduates this week at Fall Convocation. Graduates from DC’s eight faculties received their diplomas and graduate certificates, including:

“After almost 38 years in the college system and almost 16 years as president of Durham College, Convocation remains one of my favourite events,” said Don Lovisa, president. “Durham College prepares students to make an impact in our community, and it’s extremely rewarding to witness them cross the stage to receive their credentials. Convocation marks the beginning of a new chapter, and I can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.”

Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

  • Lauren Bull, DC Alumna and founder & CEO, Canoe & Lake.
  • Brandon Bird, DC Alumnus and CEO, Bird Mechanical Ltd., who was recently named one of On-Site Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction.

During the evening ceremony on October 26, the college also recognized Stephanie Ball, retired executive dean, with the honorary designation of Emeritus in recognition of her many years of outstanding service to DC students and the community.

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

Lucky winner gets $5,000 tuition credit

Justin Hooton is the lucky winner of a $5,000 tuition credit.

The annual contest is open to all Durham College (DC) applicants who register at various events. Now a first-year student in the Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program, Hooton entered the draw while attending Spring Open House in April, and didn’t give it another thought. At least, not until he received a phone call from DC sharing the good news.

His initial reaction was shock, but once he realized he had really won, he was thrilled. So was his family, and they joined him at the Oshawa campus this week to celebrate.

Even before winning the contest, he knew he’d made the right choice in attending DC.

“I’d heard good things about the school, and it was also one of the closer schools to me, so it was a no-brainer,” said the Peterborough native, who is aiming for a career in the burgeoning field of sports analytics.

DC president Don Lovisa was on hand to greet the Hooton family and share his congratulations.

“It’s wonderful,” he said. “Most students need financial support, whether it’s through a raffle like this, or OSAP loans.”

There are a lot of options for DC students looking to finance their education, and the Financial Aid and Awards office can help.

And if you’re attending DC next year, it could be your turn to win!

Future students, join us for College Information Program events at Durham College!

Anyone planning their post-secondary future is invited to our College Information Program (CIP) events hosted at Durham College on Thursday, October 26.

Connect with representatives from over 20 Ontario colleges to learn about programs, admission requirements and campus life. Visitors will also be able to tour both of our Durham College (DC) campuses to explore modern learning spaces, meet current students and learn about why people love DC.

At our Oshawa campus, the event will be held in the Global Classroom of the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) from 10 a.m. to noon.  

At our Whitby campus, you’ll find it in the front atrium of the main building from 6 to 8 p.m.

For more information, please contact Rachel Beerman, student recruitment marketing specialist.

Mental health advocate Mike Shoreman speaks at Durham College

Students and employees at Durham College (DC) heard from a renowned speaker and mental health advocate this week in recognition of World Mental Health Day.

Mike Shoreman brought his inspiring story of recovery, triumph and advocacy to DC. After being diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and struggling with depression, he rebuilt his mental health and his life in order to become the first person with a disability to cross all five Great Lakes. At the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, he shared the highs and lows of his inspiring story while encouraging members of the campus community to develop their own mental health resilience, perseverance and drive.

“I strongly believe that we all have mental health in the same way that we all have physical health. We’re all facing mental health struggles and challenges every day, even if we don’t realize it,” he said.

Speaking to DC students, he reflected on his own time as a post-secondary student, and recalled the immense pressure he felt to succeed.

“Am I measuring up to my expectations? Am I measuring up to the expectations of my family, and my teachers? Am I fitting in? Do I belong here? It’s really hard being a student.”

That pressure followed him into adulthood, when he built a successful business as a paddleboarding coach. Although he was doing what he loved, the long hours and constant demands on his time and energy pushed him to his breaking point.

“Have you ever felt like you’re just doing everything, and it’s never going to end? I felt like that,” he said. “I was working myself into the ground, and I didn’t realize what I was doing. I didn’t see it until it was too late.”

The life he had built came crashing down with his Ramsay Hunt diagnosis in 2018, and a dark period of depression followed. But with the support of his family, he sought treatment for his mental health challenges. In the process of restoring his own health, he discovered a passion for showing others how to improve their lives, from the inside out.

“I feel like it’s a responsibility. I try to help one person every day,” he said. “There’s never been a more important time to talk about mental health, and fight the stigma that surrounds it. It starts with having a conversation, just checking in on somebody and saying, how are you doing?”

If you missed his presentation, you can watch it online now. To learn more about Mike Shoreman, visit his website.

‘People believe in me and want to support my journey’: 10 Durham College students receive a total of $300,000 through Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades

Ten Durham College (DC) students who are passionate about careers in the trades have received a massive boost of support through the inaugural Schulich Builders Scholarships for the Skilled Trades.

Five students received $20,000 scholarships for one-year programs and five received $40,000 scholarships for two-year programs. By launching the Builder Scholarships for 100 Ontario students in 2023, The Schulich Foundation is helping to combat the shortage of skilled trades in the province and amplifying their importance and value to the community. Applications for a second round of scholarships will open to students in 2024.

Fara Shea of Oshawa is the recipient of a $40,000 scholarship. She always had an interest in working with cars, looking up to her grandfather who worked at General Motors for 40 years before he retired. That’s why she decided to pursue the Automotive Technician – Service and Management (Motive Power) program at DC.

“Being able to do something like him really means a lot because now I can see why he enjoyed working in this trade,” she said. “In a way it helps me feel closer to him even with him not being here.”

Shea was thrilled to be selected for the scholarship.

“It has really impacted my life. A big weight was lifted off my chest because I don’t have to worry about earning the money for my tuition each semester and being able to afford all the equipment I’ll be needing for school. I’ll forever be grateful that I was lucky enough to be chosen for such an amazing opportunity.”

Sacha Bertossini, also of Oshawa, always thought fashion design was her future and she holds a diploma in the subject. However, when she began working on renovations in her home, she discovered a new passion.

“I quit my full-time job and joined the DC Trades Fundamentals program to have a solid knowledge base in trades,” she explains. “This solidified my decision to get into the trades industry and now I am currently enrolled in the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program.”

She said the benefits of the scholarship go beyond the $40,000 in financial support.

“The scholarship program will create opportunities for networking, learning leadership skills and meeting people in the industry that will help me shape a successful career in this field.”

Noah DeCicco, of Stayner, said he was privileged to work with custom home builders back home and he fell in love with process from the design work to the finished build. As a result, he enrolled in the Carpentry – Building Construction Technician program at DC.

“Growing up I was always reminded about my attention to detail especially when wood working,” he said. “I’m pursuing and dedicating my life to this trade because of my love for the craft and ambition to be the best of the best.”

He said he was incredibly excited to receive the $40,000 scholarship.

“For me, it was the feeling that people believe in me and want to help support me along my journey.”

Whitby campus principal and executive dean Rebecca Milburn said Durham College is proud to be part of the inaugural Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades.

“These scholarships make a difference for our 10 winners by providing them the financial support to allow them to succeed in their trade,” she said. “Congratulations to all of our scholarship winners who are student leaders on campus and have been selected from a wide variety of our skilled trades programs.”

DC Schulich Builders Scholarships two-year recipients ($40,000): Sacha Bertossini (Carpentry and Renovation Technician); Noah DeCicco (Carpentry – Building Construction Technician); Tristan Flint (Carpentry and Renovation Technician); Fara Shea (Automotive Technician – Service and Management); Boden Somerville (Electrical Engineering Technician)

DC Schulich Builders Scholarships one-year recipients ($20,000): Travis Honey (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Techniques); Inara McConnell (Electrical Techniques); Mason Raymond (Crane Operation, Rigging & Construction Techniques); Melissa Scanlan (Trades Fundamentals); Roswell Virgo (Electrical Techniques)

Find out more about applying for a Schulich Builders scholarship in 2024.