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Durham Lords heat up winter with four stellar seasons

The student-athletes at Durham College (DC) proved they’re among the best in Ontario this winter.

All four of DC’s winter teams – men’s and women’s volleyball and basketball — finished in the top 10 of their highly competitive Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) provincial rankings. The Durham Lords were the only OCAA program to accomplish that feat.

“It is rare to see a college be so strong in a number of sports,” said Ken Babcock, director of Athletics and Recreation. “It has become a tradition for DC to contend in virtually all of our sports on an annual basis. The tradition and reputation earned by our players and coaches are held in high regard by all. We attempt to deliver the best varsity program possible for all our teams.”

This year’s teams were certainly an example of that.

The women’s volleyball team finished second with a sparkling 17-1 record, while the men’s volleyball team finished tenth with a 10-8 record.

On the basketball court, the women were a force to be reckoned with, their 12-2 record nabbing them a third-place ranking. The men’s 14-4 record was good for a fifth-place ranking.

All told, DC’s four teams combined for an amazing 53-15 record in conference play.

All four teams battled hard in the playoffs. Both basketball teams and the men’s volleyball team put in competitive efforts before dropping out in the qualifying round. The women’s volleyball team capped their nearly perfect season with a silver medal, making it to the finals before falling just short of toppling the undefeated Humber Hawks.

That silver medal was added to an impressive collection, as DC ranks third on the OCAA’s all-time list of championship medal victories.

“I am so proud of my staff, my coaches and all of our amazing student-athletes that represent our college so well,” said Babcock.

Looking ahead, he expects the 2023-24 season to be just as successful, with strong returning rosters in most athletic programs complimenting a highly successful recruiting drive.

Though he’s leaving his post as athletic director in June, he’ll still be cheering on the Lords next fall and winter as they continue to lead the way in collegiate athletics.

“I am excited as always to watch our teams and athletes compete in person.”

Future firefighters and fitness professionals teaming up at Durham College for hands-on learning experience

Students in Durham College (DC)’s Firefighter – Pre-Service Education and Training (PFET) and Fitness and Health Promotion (FHP) programs are participating in a unique, collaborative learning opportunity created in response to Canada’s fitness and first responder needs.

In this interdisciplinary opportunity, firefighting students will perform real-life fire simulations while fitness and health promotion students simultaneously measure their vital physiological responses to improve health, safety and performance. This project has been funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Innovation Work-Integrated Learning program and Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada’s Innovation Hub.

“There is an emerging need for fitness and health promotion professionals with technical training specific to the assessment of first responders,” said Dr. Michael Williams-Bell, professor, Faculty of Health Sciences and lead on the initiative. “Many fire departments within Ontario and Canada require incoming recruits to have a basic level of knowledge and skills, so training conducted through projects like this is crucial as we continue to lead the way for the next generation of firefighters.”

The project, in collaboration with Oshawa Fire Services and Ontario Tech University, has three phases:

  • Phase one: V02 Max Clinics led by FHP students who measure PFET students’ maximum oxygen consumption and analyze overall cardiovascular endurance.
  • Phase two: PFET extreme environment workshop that includes exercises like search and rescue in high heat and CPR in a simulated moving ambulance.
  • Phase three: Live fire training at the OFS burn tower facility where FHP students monitor the firefighters’ physiology and provide post-evolution analysis.

With the funding, FHP students will also expand the varsity athlete training clinics and work with coaches and sport science research experts to gain hands-on experience using new data analysis techniques.

“This unique collaboration will support the learning outcomes of the FHP and PFET programs and provide our students with first-hand industry experience that will increase their employability,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, dean, Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “We’re incredibly grateful for CEWIL Canada’s commitment to elevating the student experience at Durham College.”

Totalling $195,000, this marks the largest non-bursary award DC’s Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) has received from CEWIL Canada to date.

 

Durham College grad returns to Bistro ’67 for pop-up dining event following Top Chef Canada win

Trevane “Tre” Sanderson, winner of Top Chef Canada Season 10 and 2015 grad of Durham College’s (DC) Culinary Management program, returned to Bistro ’67 for a unique dining experience on Thursday, February 23.

Part of a two-night pop-up event sponsored by RBC, the sold-out “An Evening with Tre Sanderson, Winner of Top Chef Canada” events offered more than 140 guests the chance to enjoy a delicious four-course meal made up of many of Tre’s most-celebrated dishes from the competition, as well as the opportunity to meet the Top Chef himself.

Inspired by his Jamaican background and fueled by his passion to elevate Caribbean cuisine, Tre worked alongside current culinary students, sharing his skills and experiences and inspiring them with his success story.

“It wasn’t long ago I was in the same situation as them, fresh and green, ambitious, eager to learn and not scared to challenge themselves,” said Tre. “Once you’re in a comfort zone, you’re not being challenged so being able to work with these young chefs and see them asking questions is humbling.”

Funds from the RBC sponsorship will also support the Tre Sanderson Culinary Management bursary, which will help future culinary students pursue their paths at DC.

“We’re incredibly proud to have played a role in Tre’s journey and grateful for his dedication to giving back to the next generation of young culinary professionals,” said Kelly O’Brien, associate dean, Faculty of Hospitality & Horticultural Science. “And with the support of our title sponsor, RBC, we were able to host an incredible event that not only showcases Tre’s talents but also how Durham College’s programs can lead the way to a bright and inspiring future.”

Bistro ’67 opened its doors once again on Friday, February 24 for the second event. The food, service, ambience and décor all received rave reviews, and another sold-out crowd enjoyed a sumptuous meal designed by Canada’s Top Chef with precision and passion.

“This menu is the dream,” he said. “It’s my dream, to elevate Caribbean cuisine.”

Durham College reaches $10 million goal for Building for Skills Campaign

Community support helps open new facility to advance training of skilled trades students

The final $10 million has been raised to complete Durham College’s (DC) Building for Skills Campaign which increases the training capacity on the Whitby campus and transforms the way DC delivers industrial and construction-focused professional and skilled trades training and education.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity and support of our Durham College donor community, we have fully funded – and opened – the state-of-the-art Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology,” said Linda Flynn, associate vice president, Development and Alumni Affairs and executive director, Durham College Foundation. “This achievement would not have been possible without the help of our dedicated community and partners, whose support is an investment in our collective success and our students’ futures.”

The remarkable facility boasts modern technologies and innovative learning spaces and allows DC to increase training capacity for post-secondary and apprenticeship education, provide students with specialized skills training and set graduates up for careers that help address Canada’s skilled trades talent gap.

“With a growing demand for workers with specialized skills across numerous trades and sectors, this expansion and what it means for the future of our workforce couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Don Lovisa, president, Durham College. “We are leading the way by offering dynamic hands-on learning and developing knowledgeable and experienced, skilled graduates who will step into rewarding careers that can make a difference in our local communities.”

 

Fine Arts students showcase their work at Durham Region headquarters

Durham Region’s headquarters has an inspiring new look thanks to our Durham College (DC) Fine Arts students.

A new public art installation representing the themes of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility was unveiled on Wednesday, February 15. With these themes in mind, DC’s talented artists crafted a selection of bold and colorful paintings, which are now on display at 605 Rossland Road East in Whitby.

“Public art meaningfully connects people with built environment, strengthens our sense of culture and creates a more beautiful community to enjoy every day,” said John Henry, regional chair and chief executive officer of Durham Region. “This new installation does all of that while celebrating the diversity of our region. It’s a visual reminder of our values, and it will help ensure everyone feels welcome and included here.”

Durham Region and DC partnered on this public art project with the goals of connecting people and places, creating beautiful spaces, and supporting the local creative community.

Fine Arts students in their final year participated in the project as part of their Community Collaboration – Service Learning course, in which they work with community groups and explore critical social and community issues.

“We were proud to partner with the Regional Municipality of Durham on this project, which gave our Fine Arts students an opportunity to apply their classroom learning in the real-world,” said Linda Flynn, DC’s associate vice president of Development and Alumni Affairs.

“I am deeply proud of their work which will be enjoyed by community members for years to come.”  

Donor excellence and student success celebrated at Durham College’s first President’s Breakfast

Durham College (DC) recognized the generous support of the community while showcasing student success at the first annual President’s Breakfast on February 9.

More than 65 individuals, community partners and corporate donors attended the event at the Whitby campus’ W. Galen Weston Centre which celebrated their commitment to learning and gave them the chance to hear directly from students.

Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter, Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy and members from the college’s Board of Governors and the Durham College Foundation Board also attended the event.

“Our donors’ investments are making a difference in the lives of our students every day,” said Don Lovisa, president, Durham College. “From financial contributions through scholarships, bursaries and capital projects, to the experience and expertise they offer in field placements and Program Advisory Committees, their generosity and support play an integral role in helping the college and our students lead the way.”

Four students also spoke and shared the ways that donor support has impacted their DC journey and how it has empowered them to embrace the future.

“I am incredibly grateful to study in the brand-new Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology,” said Heather Reid, a student in the Mechanical Technician – Elevating Devices program. “The ability to learn from industry professionals and work hands-on with leading-edge technology that I will encounter in the future gives me the confidence to know I will be prepared on graduation day to rise to the challenge and make a difference in my industry.”

Many donors in attendance were recent supporters of the college’s Building for Skills Campaign, which led to the opening of the college’s new Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology. A welcomed addition to the Whitby campus, the new facility has allowed the college to expand its capacity for skilled trades programs by 750 students to address the labour shortage in Canada.

Durham College Skilled Trades Students Leading the Way with Schulich Builders Scholarship Program

Durham College is proud to partner with The Schulich Foundation which announced a game-changing program, Schulich Builders, a scholarship program dedicated to students pursuing a career in the skilled trades. In its first year of operation, more than $3 million is committed to combat labour shortages and highlight the importance of skilled trades in Canada, with $300,000 going directly to Durham College students.

“We are grateful for this partnership with the Schulich Foundation and generous supports for students in skilled trades programs,” said Don Lovisa, President of Durham College. “With these scholarships, we will continue to lead the way by developing knowledgeable and experienced skilled trades graduates who are able to step into rewarding careers that can make a difference in our local communities.”

In addition to financial support, Schulich Builders also provides leadership training and mentorship to set up graduates for success.

“We are proud to promote the skilled trades and support students pursuing this rewarding career path,” said Judy Schulich, Executive Vice-President of The Schulich Foundation. “Canadians rely heavily on the trades to build and maintain infrastructure critical for prosperous communities.  Our challenge today is not having enough of these talented people to meet the demand.”

Applications for Durham College students open on March 1 for students starting in September 2023.

Program Details:
Launched in 2023, Schulich Builders will cover tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trade program at one of ten participating colleges in Ontario, including Durham College. Priority will be given to students nominated by their high school. Students may apply directly through Durham College.

Durham College will award 10 scholarships per year:

  • five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and
  • five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs.

For more information, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/schulichbuilders.

Job Fair connects students and alumni with employers

Close to 2,000 Durham College (DC) students and alumni connected with 135 employers at two recent on-campus job fairs to explore local opportunities for full- and part-time work, summer jobs and contract roles.

DC and Ontario Tech University held a joint event at the Oshawa campus on Thursday, February 2. On Wednesday, February 8, DC held its own event at the Whitby campus.

“The Job Fair is an important event that connects our qualified students and alumni with local employers and industry leaders who will guide them to the next step in their careers,” said Don Lovisa, DC president, at the Oshawa event. “We are fortunate to have so many innovative businesses operating in Durham Region, supporting our students and families and making meaningful contributions to our communities every day.”

With DC’s proven track record of producing job-ready graduates, employers know they are likely to find ideal candidates at the annual Job Fair.

“We take pride in knowing that our programs are developed in response to meet employer and industry needs,” said Lovisa. “It’s always nice to learn of the high satisfaction rates, year after year, from employers who have hired a DC student or alumni and welcomed them as part of their team.”

Feedback from employers was very positive, and some students even received job offers on the spot.

The students were well prepared to meet prospective employers after last month’s Gear Up to Get Hired events, where they attended drop-in sessions and webinars to learn how to approach the modern job hunt, from creating a personal pitch to preparing for an interview. They also learned some tips and tricks about networking and how to create an eye-catching resumé.

With successful events like the Job Fair, DC continues to lead the way by preparing students for their future careers.

DC honours Black History Month

February 1 marks the beginning of Black History Month in Canada. This is an important time to acknowledge the contributions Black Canadians have made to our history and culture. Durham College (DC) is proud to honour those pioneers and change makers and celebrate their role in shaping our communities.

Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the intersectional identities and histories of Black people across the Black/African diaspora and their contributions around the world. The DC community is encouraged to acknowledge and challenge inequities that perpetuate anti-Black racism and to celebrate those who continue to take action against it.  

DC pledges to listen, learn and take actionable steps to ensure equitable and inclusive access for all, and our anti-Black racism statement is an acknowledgment of the systemic and institutionalized racism that serves to limit the opportunities and potential of members of the Black community. DC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus for all students and employees, regardless of race, today and every day. 

To recognize the month, DC will raise the Pan-African Flag – a symbol of Black liberation and solidarity for members of the Black/African diaspora. Additionally, throughout the month, the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is hosting a series of educational and community-building activities to foster a culture of inclusion and excellence for students and employees that support this year’s theme, “From Legacy to Future.”

Events

Black History in Canada and Legacies of Enslavement

Learn more about the rich experiences and expansive history of peoples of African descent in Canada for over 400 years. Participants will have the opportunity to think critically about the various experiences and contributions of Black people in Canada.

 This presentation will focus on:

  • Black and Indigenous enslavement in Canada.      
  • Legacies of enslavement with a focus on anti-Black racism.     
  • Experiences and achievements of significant individuals and groups that contributed to diverse aspects of Canadian society.

When: Thursday, February 9, from noon to 1 p.m.
Where: Virtual
Presented by: Channon A. Oyeniran, historian and consultant lecturer for Black History in Canada.
Register here 

Exploring the Intersection: Understanding Anti-Black Islamophobia

Explore the interlocking impact of anti-Blackness and Islamophobia on Black Muslim communities and Black Muslim students. Practical resources and recommendations will be shared to support efforts to promote equity and inclusion.

When: Thursday, February 16, from noon to 1:15 p.m.
Platform: Virtual
Presented by: National Council of Canadian Muslims
Register here

Rep Your Flag: Socacize Movement Class

DC’s Black-identifying community and allies are invited to celebrate Black joy in an energetic socacize fitness class that combines Caribbean and African dance techniques with effective fitness moves. Participants can expect to experience an exciting fusion of music and get their heart rates up. Suitable for all skill levels.

When: Tuesday, February 21, from noon to 1 p.m.
Where: Global Classroom, CFCE 145
Register here

Additional events to recognize Black History Month are being hosted by the Durham College Student Association. Check them out here.

Durham College recognized for ninth time as one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges

Durham College (DC) is leading the way in applied research and has been named one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges by Research Infosource Inc. for the ninth time.

The college secured first place among medium-sized colleges in the percentage of social sciences funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) over a three-year period, and second place among medium-sized colleges for the number of paid student researchers. 

DC’s Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE), facilitates applied research initiatives at the college and helps solve industry and social challenges with innovation and collaboration. Notable research accomplishments for this year include:

  • Winning bronze at the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics (WFCP) World Congress for DC’s Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation, elevating the college’s ongoing commitment to applied research and cybersecurity on the international stage.
  • Securing $4.2 million of shared research funding dedicated to COVID-19 recovery that helped boost the economy post-pandemic while working collaboratively with industry partners.
  • Hosting an interactive gaming event at the Mixed Reality Capture (MRC) studio to celebrate applied research success and student talent.

“I have immense pride in the exceptional researchers and research administrators here at DC that have helped us achieve this honour once again,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, dean, ORSIE. “This national recognition validates and propels our work as we continue to enhance our services, deepen our connections with the community, forge new partnerships with other colleges, and prioritize the student experience with real-world learning opportunities.”

All five of the college’s research centres – The MRC Studio, AI Hub, Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation, Centre for Craft Brewing Innovation, and Social Impact Hub – continue to grow and strengthen their relationships with industry partners and organizations. By engaging industry experts, faculty, students, and the community in research projects, DC continues to be a leading post-secondary institution that prioritizes collaboration, innovation and research.