Durham College (DC) is promoting food literacy and fighting food insecurity.

The Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC) and the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture have teamed up for ‘Food IQ: Growing Minds, Growing Plates’. The multifaceted initiative seeks to educate DC students on the importance of accessible, affordable healthy food and preparing nutritious meals.

“Durham Region as a whole is having food insecurity and food literacy issues. Some individuals struggle with making economical food choices while keeping nutritional value in mind due to the increased cost of living,” said Jennifer Elliott, CHWC director, noting that such issues are especially prevalent among young students living on their own for the first time. 

Brenna Bizley, partnership manager for the Barrett Centre, agrees that improving food literacy in youth is critical.

“We need to teach students that purchasing fresh fruit or vegetables provides more of a nutritional benefit than spending that same amount of money on processed food that might be more familiar to them,” she said. “Hopefully that will build some awareness and momentum around healthy eating and making healthy choices.”

With that in mind, the CHWC and the Barrett Centre have expanded the DC Farmer’s Market by bringing it to the Oshawa campus, allowing more students to access fresh produce. The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) is providing coupons to help all students benefit from the market. Unsold produce has been donated to the DC Food Bank and used in other programming, including cooking classes and as snacks for students.

CHWC wellness coaches attend the market every Tuesday to promote food literacy activities, mindful eating and healthy habits, while also ensuring that students know about resources that can help them, like financial support and the DCSA food bank.

Additional programming will be available for the Fall semester. Munchie Mondays will teach students how to prepare budget conscious snacks, while Mindful Farm Fridays invites them to join wellness coaches at the Whitby campus for mindfulness practice. The CHWC’s eating disorders psychotherapist will provide education and counseling on important topics like body dysmorphia.

Plans for more programs and activities are in the works, like budget planning and grocery shopping tips.

Food literacy is important for everyone, but especially for the younger generation, according to Elliott.

“Developing food literacy skills, such as understanding nutrition, cooking, and meal planning, can lead to healthier eating habits. This, in turn, promotes better physical and mental health among students,” she said. “Our hope is that this can instill lifelong habits of responsible and conscious eating. Students are more likely to carry forward the knowledge and values they acquire during their college years, making a positive impact on their own lives and the lives of others.”

Four Durham College (DC) Fine Arts students have spent the summer transforming the L Wing with their artistic talent.

“We have an amazing group of students who have been hired to enliven our hallways by producing some original artwork and collaborative pieces,” explained Sean McQuay, professor and coordinator of the Fine Arts program.

Heading into the third and final year of their program, Elijah McKenzie, Meghan Costello, Jennifer Rammler and Jordan Dolman jumped at the opportunity to put their artistic stamp on the walls of DC for years to come.

The quartet have been hard at work since late spring, and many of their 18 pieces will be completed in time to be enjoyed by returning students next month. Work on the others will continue throughout the fall semester.

“The point is to bring life into the halls and make this feel like the art wing that it is,” said Costello. “I think it’s really special that we’re doing work that we’ll get to see every day throughout the year, and our classmates and other students will also get to see it.”

One eye-catching piece is a colorful and anatomically correct version of the familiar “I Heart DC” logo. But the artists were not instructed to simply promote the school. Instead, they were encouraged to treat the walls as their personal canvas and create work that’s meaningful to them.

McKenzie is particularly proud of a piece that depicts an open mouth emitting smoke.

“I wanted to represent how people want to get their voice out,” he said. “It’s nice to have a variety of different styles and themes.”

He has also collaborated with Costello as she creates a mural depicting a skeletal figure emitting light from within. Rammler has been hard at work on a mural that celebrates the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, while Dolman has focused on pieces that he hopes will radiate positivity.

“I’m just making them colorful and full of love and putting all that energy out there,” he said. “I always try to start with good vibes and just go with it.”

Providing a work study opportunity like this is a dream come true for McQuay, his fellow professor Keir Broadfoot and the entire Media, Art and Design (MAD) Faculty. Though the work of Fine Arts students has long been displayed throughout Durham College (DC), this is the first time they’ve been allowed to redecorate the wing they call home.

Though the students are being paid for their work, they’re also gaining invaluable experience in the conception, planning and implementation of the kind of art project they hope to work on in the future.

“We wanted to give them the opportunity to do the planning and conceptualization on their own, so they can have as much experience as possible working on a large-scale project,” said Broadfoot.  

It’s a rare opportunity that isn’t lost on the students, according to Rammler.

“I don’t even know of any art schools that would have such a convenient and open opportunity to do artwork for the school, and get paid for it, while you’re still students,” she said.

A summer of hard work will yield some great artwork for students to enjoy, and another example of how DC is leading the way in experiential learning.

The L Wing is open to everyone. Next time you’re on campus be sure to visit and enjoy the new artwork.

Durham College (DC) has partnered with Supply Chain Management Association Ontario (SCMAO) to provide students with a jumpstart to their job search.

While they complete their studies, students in DC’s Supply Chain programs will also be making progress towards earning their Certified Supply Chain Management Professional (CSCMP) designation. Offered by the SCMAO, the designation can be earned by completing a number of modules and workshops that cover the finer points of the supply chain industry. Though not required by employers, the CSCMP stamp of approval undoubtedly gets their attention when considering applicants.

“Being able to pursue their CSCMP designation is a definite leg up for a student. It’s a well-recognized designation in the world of supply chain management,” explained Nancy Martin, associate dean, Faculty of Business.

DC graduates from Supply Chain and Operations – Business, Supply Chain and Operations Management – Business Administration, and Supply Chain Management – Global will be exempted from a variety of the CSCMP program components, as long as they maintain a 60% average.

Providing students with a head start on their career journey is just one of the ways DC is leading the way, according to Kevin Baker, executive dean of the Faculty of Business.

“In almost every one of our programs, we’re connected with an external association which represents people working in that field,” he said, pointing to examples like the Microsoft Office Specialist certifications that are embedded into a number of business programs.

“These are designations that employers recognize, and together with the knowledge and skills students gain in their program, this accreditation will help them stand out in today’s competitive job market as career-ready graduates.”

Learn more about a recent Supply Chain Management – Global graduate, Rejoy James, online.

Durham College (DC) is proud to announce a partnership with Blue Door aimed at impacting social change by empowering those facing barriers to autonomous and full-time employment within the skilled trades. Thanks to funding from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, this collaboration provides participants with access to a program called Construct, where they receive professional and personal development opportunities to transition them to independent and profitable employment in the construction industry.

“DC is thrilled to collaborate with Blue Door on this three-week training program and we’re very proud of what the participants accomplish throughout their training,” said Rebecca Milburn, principal of DC’s Whitby campus and executive dean of the Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship. “At DC, we’re preparing the next generation of skilled trades workers to help support the needs of our growing communities. Our expert faculty prepare the participants for the high-demand workforce with hands-on learning and intensive support so they can successfully enter the skilled trades industry.”

Expert faculty from DC’s Building Construction and Carpentry and Renovation programs are providing training to 20 participants this summer in the college’s state-of-the-art carpentry shop.  In addition to the participants building several construction projects, they will also receive Health & Safety Training, First Aid & CPR, and Working at Heights training certificates. While participants discover the world of carpentry in the Construct program, they also receive immense support and guidance from DC faculty while making connections with unions and employers.

“This partnership with Durham College allows for participants in the Construct program living in Durham Region to receive skills-based and experiential training from faculty at the college,” said Rudi Genovese, director, Social Enterprise at Construct. “The certifications and training gained will set up our participants to obtain meaningful job opportunities that will start building their career in the trades. By connecting participants with Durham College, Construct is able to support them in building strong relationships and career paths in their community.”

This carpentry pilot training program is expected to continue in the future and create a ripple effect within Durham Region to help empower the most vulnerable with profitable and rewarding careers. Visit DC online to kickstart your career in the skilled trades today or explore the Blue Door Construct program for training details.

To help connect those considering Durham College (DC) with current students, DC has launched a new Student Ambassador program. More than a dozen students from various Faculties and programs are now available to answer questions, share their unique perspectives and describe their student-life experiences to help prospective students make a more informed decision about Durham College.

“The Student Ambassador program will help incoming students and those considering DC make peer-to-peer connections, an invaluable offering that provides authentic insights, experiences, and opinions from some of the college’s best students,’” says Debbie Johnston, associate vice-president, Academic, Enrolment and International Education. “We’re thrilled to see this new program unfold and to share everything DC has to offer in a new and impactful way.”

Student ambassadors are prepared to discuss a wide range of topics including DC’s campus and learning environments, opportunities to get involved while at college, support services available to students, academic workload and so much more.

“I would have loved the opportunity to connect with a current student going through the college experience when I was applying to Durham College, which is why I decided to be a student ambassador,” says Kathryn Fullerton, a first-year student in DC’s Faculty of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship. “I hope to be able to answer peoples’ questions, ease their minds, and make the experience as stress-free as possible.”

The program is accessible through the DC website and provides a safe space to share authentic questions and experiences. New DC applicants who would like to connect with an ambassador simply need to create an account, message the ambassador of their choice and they will receive a response within 48 hours.

The new program will not only provide information and fresh insights to prospective students, but it will also help them build new connections with peers to boost their sense of belonging and become more confident about choosing DC for their post-secondary education.

Would you like to connect with an ambassador? 15 students are ready to hear from you today.

Today marks the release of Durham College’s (DC) 2022-2023 Annual Report, Leading the Way.

The report is filled with examples of the past year’s notable initiatives, programs and events that demonstrate how, at DC, we’re leading the way.

It also includes several videos of our students who share their perspectives on the welcoming and supportive community we have worked hard to establish.

“Every day, our employees, students, Board of Governors, alumni, and industry and community partners bring our mission to life,” said Don Lovisa, president, Durham College. “I am so proud of our achievements this year and look ahead with energy and enthusiasm.”

Please explore the report and find out why the future is bright at DC.

Two Durham College (DC) students are packing their suitcases after qualifying for this month’s Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) World Championship in Orlando, Florida.

Ryanna Law (Accounting – Business) and Blake Dawson (Marketing – Business Administration) competed in the MOS Canadian Championship in June. Students who excel in their MOS exams (which are embedded into a number of DC’s Faculty of Business programs) can compete in the virtual event to showcase their skills and knowledge.

Both DC students were tasked with using Word or Excel to create a new document or presentation. That was followed by a quiz on the finer points of their respective program.

“I was a little bit nervous because I wasn’t fully sure what to expect going into it,” explained Law. “It just seemed like something fun to do.”

Dawson had a similar approach to the competition.

“It wasn’t too stressful for me, since I didn’t really think I would win anything from it and entered with low expectations,” he said.

Both were pleasantly surprised. Law finished first in the PowerPoint 2019 category while Dawson was second in Word 2019. All first-place finishers earned a trip to the upcoming World Championship, July 30 – August 2. The winner of the Word category bowed out, paving the way for Dawson to join the trip.

“It’s an extremely cool opportunity that I didn’t think I’d be able to have, so I’m extremely thankful and excited,” said Law.

The success of the DC pair came as no surprise to their professors.

“As a professor, you can predict those who will excel in the course. Ryanna was one such student who exhibited dedication and commitment to the class,” said Jacqueline Russell, who taught Law in Business Computer Applications 1.

Muhammad Rashid taught Blake in the same course.

“I am proud and highly excited to hear of Blake’s success in the Canadian Championship,” he said.

Students who excel in their MOS exams have an edge in the job market, with recruiters and prospective employers looking for students who have an aptitude for Microsoft Office. That’s why DC prioritizes it, according to Jennifer Souch, a professor in the Faculty of Business.

“MOS certifications are highly valuable and offer numerous benefits. Recognized globally, they showcase essential skills and improve job prospects,” she said. “MOS certifications give students a competitive edge, enabling efficient communication, data analysis, and presentation creation. Ultimately, they enhance professional development, leading the way for success in the job market.”

But first, Law and Dawson will proudly represent DC in Florida later this month.

Durham College (DC) is proud to partner with Johnson Controls to help meet the growing need for skilled technology workers in Ontario by providing Electromechanical Engineering Technology students with financial support as well as mentorship opportunities.

DC has been approved for a grant from Johnson Controls that will provide:

• Annual entrance bursaries valued at $2,000 each to five students who demonstrate financial need and belong to an equity-deserving group entering their first semester of studies in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology program.
• Opportunities for students to be mentored and connect on and off campus with Johnson Controls employees to gain additional insight into their future careers.
• New equipment that will support DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology curriculum and the establishment of a new building automation lab.
• Opportunities to share the benefits of this program with new prospective students.

The college will receive $95,000 this year, plus $5,000 in equipment, with the total $100,000 commitment renewable for three more years.

“We are grateful for this partnership with Johnson Controls and its generous support to further strengthen our Electromechancial Engineering Technology program and its students,” said Don Lovisa, Durham College president. “With this gift, we will continue to lead the way by developing knowledgeable and experienced graduates who are able to step into rewarding technical careers that can make a difference in our communities.”

Local Johnson Controls employees – many of whom are graduates from DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology program – will work with the college to mentor students in this automation program. Through relationship building with industry professionals, students will gain insight into their future career paths. “Not only are we investing in the next generation of workforce leaders, but the mentoring associated with this initiative reminds our employees why we do what we do,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “We’re looking at our future and through partnership with these colleges we’re all contributing to a better-supported trades industry.”

DC’s three-year Electromechanical Engineering Technology program combines electronics design, mechanical technologies and industrial automation. Students receive access to our world-class Integrated Manufacturing Centre, where they can engage with real-world controllers, robotics and more. This hands-on experience prepares them for successful careers as they gain the skills needed to design and troubleshoot automated systems used in various technical industries.

Since 2021, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program has distributed $1 million annually across 10 community colleges in North America, focusing on vocational programs to inspire the next generation of workers. Grant recipients have the opportunity to receive a renewed grant for up to three years, creating long-term opportunities for program development. Each college has the option to receive the grants in full monetary value or to receive partial monetary funds along with technical equipment donated by Johnson Controls. Durham College is the only Canadian institution to receive funding this year and just the second in the program’s history.

 First-year students beginning DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology program in September 2023 can apply for the Johnson Controls entrance bursary online.