Info for
Quick links
Download our Mobile app
Icon for Apple. App Store Icon for Android. Google Play

Experienced, senior leaders re-elected as Chair and Vice Chair of Durham College Board of Governors  

The Durham College (DC) Board of Governors (BOG) is pleased to announce that Lisa Allen and Peter Pryce were re-elected as Chair and Vice Chair of the Board for the 2025-2026 Board year.

During their last year as Chair and Vice Chair, Lisa and Peter led the Board through the Presidential transition, navigated federal and provincial policies that resulted in financial and enrolment challenges, and approved a new Strategic Vision for DC which provides a framework to guide decisions, align priorities, and drive meaningful outcomes.

Allen, a senior enterprise risk professional and a Chartered Professional Accountant with a Bachelor of Accounting degree from Brock University, has served as a member of the BOG for five years.

“I remain deeply honoured to serve as Chair of the Board at Durham College,” she said. “Over the past year, I’ve grown even more proud of DC’s legacy of fostering innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education. As we look ahead, I’m excited to continue building on that strong foundation to help the college meet the evolving needs of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.”

Pryce, a Senior Operations Manager for a large natural gas utility contractor, brings his experience planning and executing major infrastructure projects across Ontario to his role as Vice-Chair.

“It has been a privilege to support Durham College over the past year, and I’m honoured to continue in this role,” he said. “My commitment to giving back to the community, and especially to helping young people pursue careers in the skilled trades, remains as strong as ever. I look forward to working alongside the entire Board of Governors and the incredible DC team to help move the college forward.”

The Board is committed to meeting its fiduciary responsibilities and established mandate through collaborative leadership, openness, and transparency. The Board looks forward to Lisa and Peter’s continued leadership.

To learn more about the roles and duties of officers, read the Board policy.

Durham College receives funding from ONCAT to support post-secondary student mobility

Durham College (DC) is expanding opportunities for students to access, navigate and complete post-secondary education with the support of funding from the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT). Two new projects – one focused on advancing transfer credit tools and another strengthening pathway opportunities in health education – will help students receive recognition for previously completed learning.

“This funding from ONCAT supports our commitment to making education more accessible, flexible, and responsive to student needs,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “By improving credit transfer processes and creating streamlined pathways between programs, we’re helping students make informed decisions, reduce duplication, and reach their academic and career goals sooner.”

The first initiative – Building Pathways: Kinesiology to Massage Therapy – is in partnership with Ontario Tech University and builds pathway opportunities between the two institutions’ Kinesiology to Massage Therapy programs. By developing new course materials, the pathway will reduce the time required to complete a second program — helping learners enter the labour market sooner.

The second initiative – Transfer Credit Database Expansion – expands the functionality of a transfer credit database. By beginning a process to shift transfer credit assessments from post-admission to pre-admission, the project aims to provide students with clearer information about post-secondary options.

“ONCAT’s funding for institutional projects will reduce barriers and smooth transitions for learners,” said Dr. Adrienne Galway, President and CEO, ONCAT. “We prioritize innovative initiatives with the potential to scale or be adopted across institutions, that help learners successfully navigate their academic journey and receive appropriate recognition for previous academic and work experience. Our mission is to ensure that learners complete their post-secondary credentials and transition successfully into the workforce.”

From April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, ONCAT awarded $2.04 million in funding for 29 institutional projects, including the two at DC.

“Our province’s post-secondary education programs are building Ontario’s workforce of today and tomorrow,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security of the funding announcement. “Our government is proud to support ONCAT and their critical efforts to reduce barriers for students looking to get the training they need to begin successful careers that meet our province’s labour market needs.”

Science students recognized by the Chemical Institute of Canada

Durham College students (DC) in the Biotechnology – Advanced and Chemical Engineering Technology programs have been celebrated by the Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC) for their academic excellence and dedication.

Each year, the CIC – a prominent Canadian organization committed to the advancement of chemical sciences – honours top graduates from chemistry-related programs across the country. This year, four DC students were recognized, cementing our reputation for preparing the next generation of biotechnology professionals to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving workforce.

Mauricio Escalante and Haneen Awadallah received the prestigious Silver Medal Award, presented to the graduating student with the highest cumulative GPA in their program.

“Mauricio’s consistent academic excellence and commitment to learning distinguished him throughout his time at DC,” said Christine Hand, Biotechnology – Advanced Program Coordinator.

“Haneen’s dedication to her studies was evident from the moment she entered the classroom in her first year. Her drive to excel propelled her to achieve the highest GPA as she approached her graduating year, and this will serve her well as she transitions to the industry after graduating with honors this spring,” noted Laura Benninger, Program Coordinator of the Chemical Engineering Technology program.

The Book Award, which honours the most improved graduating student, was awarded to Alexander Rinella and Naji Bennett.

“Alexander’s significant growth and perseverance stood out to faculty and reflected his strong dedication to personal and academic development,” said Hand.

“Naji consistently challenged himself during his time at Durham College, and his desire for continuous improvement was recognized by the faculty. These traits will be essential for his future as a chemical engineer,” said Benninger.

The students received cash prizes and were recognized at a special awards ceremony hosted by the Toronto Chapter of the CIC, alongside other top graduates from the Greater Toronto Area.

“These awards mark a proud moment for the Durham College community,” said Hand. “We congratulate the students and look forward to seeing the impact they’ll make as they embark on their careers in science and innovation.”

At DC, students get experiential learning opportunities in cutting-edge laboratories with industry-grade equipment. To follow in their footsteps, learn more about the Biotechnology – Advanced and Chemical Engineering Technology programs today.

Recognizing Pride Month at Durham College

As Pride Month begins, Durham College (DC) reaffirms its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive campus for all members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.

All month, the Progress Pride Intersex Inclusive Flag will fly at both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, symbolizing DC’s ongoing dedication to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

“Pride Month is a time to honour and celebrate the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community and renew our collective commitment to acceptance, solidarity, and inclusion for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “I am proud of the inclusive and respectful spaces we’ve created together at Durham College. We are focused on reviewing our policies and practices to address inequities, deepen knowledge, and strengthen capacity to better support the needs of students and employees.”

Throughout June, DC is offering a range of opportunities for education and engagement. The DC Library has curated a range of Pride Month resources to support deeper learning and understanding, while the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is sharing supports for 2SLGBTQQIA+ students and employees, along with guidance for allies.

“Everyone belongs at DC,” said Dr. Popp. “We commit to making DC a place where everyone feels safe, respected, and seen; not just this month, but every day.”

Honouring National Indigenous History Month at Durham College

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to recognize and honour the histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

At Durham College (DC), Indigeneity plays a vital role in shaping education. The college is committed to advancing decolonization and fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

“As a leader in education, we are taking meaningful steps to honour Indigenous knowledge through our programs, services, and campus spaces,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “Guided by the First Peoples Indigenous Centre and the Indigenous Advisory Circle, we continue to build an inclusive, welcoming environment for all.”

This shared commitment is reflected in DC’s Indigenization Statement, and reinforced through the college’s Strategic Vision, which outlines its intention to expand Indigenous-led programs and initiatives. These efforts support both students and employees in championing Indigenous rights and furthering reconciliation.

This month, members of the DC community are invited to engage with resources and opportunities that foster deeper understanding and encourage collective action, including:

  • Lunch and Learn film screenings hosted by the First Peoples Indigenous Centre.
  • DC’s Indigenous content collection highlighting stories, resources, supports, and opportunities available on campus.
  • Curated Indigenous Library resources on Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, heritage, rights and histories.
  • Online learning modules focused on Indigenous histories and reconciliation.
  • Reflective campus spaces like the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard and Weeping Willow Tree at the Oshawa campus that honour the children lost to residential, day, and industrial schools.

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey. DC invites everyone to take part in meaningful learning, reflection, and dialogue — this month and beyond.

Durham College hosts events to empower and inspire Black students

This spring, Durham College (DC) welcomed hundreds of elementary students from the Durham District School Board (DDSB) to campus for two inspiring events; The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference and Empower Her, dedicated to Black female students.

Each event served as an invaluable opportunity for young Black students from Grades 6 to 8 to celebrate their identity and culture while getting a glimpse of what the future might hold. They spent their time at DC immersed in workshops and engaging with entrepreneurs, community leaders, and organizations, enjoying thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities and moments of connection.

“It was wonderful to welcome these young Kings and Queens to our campus,” said Dr. Sadie Goddard-Durant, Director of DC’s Office of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. “Through our collaboration with DDSB, we sought to enable them to curate a safe space for young students to reflect on how they embody Black Excellence, and a how post-secondary education might factor into that. We’d love to see them again at DC!”

  • The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference

    “The Cypher is really about creating opportunities for young Black males to see themselves represented in a variety of different ways,” explained Sean McCormack, event Co-Chair.

    Each year, the event empowers young Black males to be leaders and allows their skills and passions to shine, according to Cypher Co-Chair Lynda Dortelus.

    “I want them to see themselves as rising kings,” she said. “It doesn't matter what you do in life, you will rise up and you will overcome whatever barriers that are coming your way because you're capable, and because there are Black kings out there that have done the same.”

    That powerful message was embraced by students like Shemar Burke from Oshawa’s Sunset Heights Public School and Elijah Carrington from Bellwood Public School in Whitby. By the end of the eventful day, they were both thinking about their futures in post-secondary education.

    “I don't really know about colleges, but now that I've had a look around, I will consider DC. It was really fun here,” said Shemar.

    “It feels like college is a place where you can relax and have freedom,” added Elijah.

  • Empower Her Conference

    The success of the Cypher event naturally led to interest in a similar event for young Black girls. Empower Her launched in 2019, and this was the event’s second year at DC.

    The goal of the event is to help Black girls recognize their strength, identity, and potential. This year’s theme, ‘Queens Rising,’ emphasized the inherent power and dignity of each participant. The conference promotes high expectations, goal setting, and self-awareness, equipping attendees with tools to navigate their academic and personal futures with confidence and purpose.

    “This is an event that is meant to inspire young girls to think about how they can use their voice, their lived experiences, and dream big in order to create a bright future,” said Kerron Slack, Vice-Principal at Maamawi iyaawag Public School in Oshawa.

    The participating students met a wide range of successful professionals, from doctors and lawyers to hairdressers, dancers, choreographers and singers.

    “It allows you to really connect with your sisters, which is other Black females, and create some lasting relationships as well.”

    Those opportunities were embraced by all of the students, including Saige Brown and Olivia Persaud from Fallingbrook Public School in Whitby.

    “In the jewelry making workshop, we were talking to this girl who is a Black entrepreneur,” said Saige. “She started making jewelry, and she goes to different trade shows. It was very nice to see someone close to our age doing something that we could possibly do.”

    “I would recommend this event because you get to meet new people and do fun activities,” added Olivia.

Photos of the events were generously provided by Natural Image Photography.

Durham College celebrates 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients

This year, Durham College (DC) welcomes five individuals to the long list of outstanding graduates who have been recognized as the college’s Alumni of Distinction.

The 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients Jeremy Burns, Aaron Dale, Chris Cull, Shawn Small and Paula Sojo, will be celebrated at DC’s Spring Convocation.

“We are so proud to celebrate this group of inspiring DC graduates,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Each of them has found success in a career path using their own experiences to guide and assist others.”

  • Jeremy Burns

    Penelogy and Youth, 2005
    Law and Security Administration, 2004

    Aaron dale

    Police Foundations, 2005

    As Canadian Armed Forces veterans, Burns and Dale have a personal understanding of the gaps in support for military veterans. Together, they co-founded the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP), a pioneering initiative designed to support Canadian military veterans in their transition to civilian life and improve public safety. The program is now part of mandatory training for Toronto police officers and more than 18,000 people have participated in the training in Canada. MVWP has been adapted internationally and is in the process of implementation in Australia, Ukraine, and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). Burns graduated from the Penology and Youth program in 2005 and the Law and Security Administration program in 2004, while Dale graduated from Police Foundations in 2005. Both have served as Toronto Police Service officers for the past six years.

  • CHRIS CULL

    Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technician, 2007

    A 2007 graduate of Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technician, Cull’s inspiring achievements in health sciences are rooted in his personal transformation from opioid addiction to recovery and advocacy. Collaborating with DC’s Social Impact Hub, he created his 2023-2024 docuseries, Surviving Addiction, which highlights the humanity behind addiction and how it affects individuals and those surrounding them. A motivational speaker, filmmaker, and policy consultant, he has advised numerous institutions, including but not limited to, the Ontario Health Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, the Government of Canada, and the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs. In addition, he is a member of the World Health Organization's Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Mental Health, Neurological and Substance Use Conditions.

  • SHAWN SMALL

    Sports Administration, 1998

    Founder and President of RISE Integrated Sports + Entertainment, Small has built an agency that champions diversity, inclusion, and innovation in sports partnerships. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded major sponsorship initiatives for organizations, including Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, Northern Super League, and the Canadian Elite Basketball League. An industry leader, he regularly shares his insights as an event speaker, panellist, and awards judge. Beyond driving measurable success for sports organizations, Small is dedicated to mentorship, helping to guide the next generation of sports leaders. He has also made an impact on DC students, previously teaching in the program that shaped his own professional journey in 1998, Sports Administration, and serving as a member of the Program Advisory Committee.

  • PAULA SOJO

    Photography, 2025
    Video Production, 2024

    At the age of 18, Paula Sojo was diagnosed with a severe case of Crohn’s disease, resulting in 17 surgeries and a permanent ostomy. Determined to help others, she teamed up with her brother to found Ostome Fashion, a thriving business that provides fashionable and empowering options to all ostomy users. With help from family, friends, and mentors, she has not only changed her life but also promoted representation and acceptance and empowered her community. Sojo is a 2024 graduate of the Video Production program and will cross the Convocation stage for a second time this spring as a 2025 graduate of DC’s Photography program.

Thousands of graduates will celebrate their achievements next month at DC’s Spring Convocation, which takes place from Monday, June 16 to Thursday, June 19 at the Tribute Communities Centre.

Durham College Helps Ontario Businesses Grow and Thrive

Durham College (DC) is continuing to help Ontario companies unlock the full value of their innovations, thanks to renewed funding for its Intellectual Property (IP) Support Program. In partnership with Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON), Conestoga College and Sheridan College, DC is playing a key role in supporting local businesses with strategies that protect, promote and commercialize their ideas.

Led by DC’s Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE), the IP Support Program provides expert guidance to small- and medium-sized enterprises across Ontario. Businesses receive personalized consultations, training and legal funding support to help them develop robust IP strategies and navigate the complexities of patents, trademarks, licensing and connect them with funding opportunities.

“In today’s innovation economy, IP is one of the most valuable assets a company can hold,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research. “Through this program, Durham College is proud to work alongside our partners to support businesses as they build sustainable growth strategies rooted in the protection of their intellectual property. These services are essential to helping companies thrive, scale and compete globally.”

The program’s impact over the past year highlights its value:

  • 28 companies received IP consultation and strategy support and mentoring
  • 12 companies accessed advanced IP services, including patent landscaping and trademark searches
  • 9 businesses received legal funding support, resulting in 3 patent filings, 19 trademark filings and 3 licensing agreements
  • Over 100 students received IP training through DC-led workshops
  • 30 participants took part in the IP Case Study Challenge

Companies like Magnify Access have experienced the value firsthand.

“We absolutely value what ORSIE has provided to us as we grow our company,” said Magnify Access. “This support has helped propel our IP endeavours, allowing us to secure the time, energy, and resources we have invested in creating our digital solutions.”

Beyond the IP program, Durham College supports businesses through applied research, custom workforce training, and talent development services. Its five research centres and Corporate Training Services division help businesses stay competitive and future ready.

Businesses interested in exploring IP services or other supports are encouraged to connect with ORSIE at DC_ORSIE@durhamcollege.ca or visit Intellectual Property Strategy, Development, and Support Program.

 

Durham College Launches New Strategic Vision

Durham College (DC) has launched its new Strategic Vision – a forward-thinking roadmap that focuses on preparing career-ready graduates, meeting industry’s changing needs, and enriching our local and global communities.

Shaped through extensive engagement with students, employees, governors, alumni, retirees, donors, industry partners, and community stakeholders, the Strategic Vision sets a clear direction for the future that will guide how the college will grow and adapt over the next five years.

“The world is evolving and there has never been a more important time for clarity of purpose,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of DC. “This new Strategic Vision is both an anchor and a compass. It grounds us in what matters most — our students, our employees, and our communities — and guides our efforts as a future-focused, sustainable, people-centred, and community-connected college.”

The Strategic Vision reflects DC’s commitment to inclusion, innovation, and impact, outlining where the college can make the greatest difference — in education, the workforce, and society. It will serve as a guide for planning and decision-making across all areas of the college, from academic programming and student services to research, partnerships, infrastructure, and community engagement.

“DC has always been a place of progress — committed to preparing students for success while strengthening our community and workforce,” said Lisa Allen, Chair of the Board of Governors. “This Strategic Vision challenges us to think differently, act with intention, and build upon our strengths. It keeps students at the centre, empowers our employees, and prioritizes strong relationships to expand opportunity and impact.”

To learn more about the Strategic Vision and what it means for DC, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/strategicvision.

DC alumni, speakers shine at TEDxOshawa

Durham College (DC) was well represented at the second annual TEDxOshawa event in May.

The co-founders and organizers of the event are both DC alumni. Faris Mahoon Siddiqui is a 2024 graduate of the Firefighter – Pre-Service Education and Training program, while Chad Andress recently completed the Electrical Engineering Technician program.

Together, they’ve created a stage for the changemakers of Durham Region to share their expertise. This year, that group included four members of the DC community.

“I’m DC proud,” said Siddiqui. “I love Durham College, and I wanted to give back to the school.”

Three of our DC faculty members – Corey Gill, Arjun Kashetty and Stan Zalewski – as well as Director of Corporate Training Services Robin Young, happily accepted the invitation and presented to the sold-out crowd at the event.

Siddiqui, who now works in industrial safety and rescue, sees the event as more than just a showcase — it's a platform for forward-thinking, practical dialogue on a multitude of important subjects.

“We’ve never had something like this in Oshawa that happens year over year,” he said. “It’s really good sharing these ideas with the community. I think we’re here to stay.”

Read on for more about the four DC speakers who entertained and informed the crowd at TEDxOshawa.

  • Corey Gill – “AI: Your Unexpected Child”

    Students in DC’s Human Resources programs are well acquainted with Faculty Member and Program Coordinator Corey Gill.

    “My focus is on equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application skills that are essential for their future careers in HR and business,” he said.

    His presentation at TEDx was all about artificial intelligence (AI); its profound impact and the importance of guiding its development intentionally.

    “AI is becoming increasingly integrated into our daily lives, and we must shape its evolution to reflect ethical values, diversity, and fairness. By engaging with AI thoughtfully, we can ensure it becomes a force for positive change rather than perpetuating biases and misinformation.”

    Watch Corey's TEDx talk.

  • Arjun Kashetty – “The Power of Supply Chain and Buying Local”

    DC’s Supply Chain students benefit from Arjun Kashetty’s expertise in the important field, having held key roles at large retailers like Walmart, Sobeys and Home Depot. At TEDx, he leveraged that experience to explain the importance of buying local and how it impacts the supply chain industry.

    “Buying local will make our supply chains stronger and resilient,” he explained.

    “I want to educate and empower the next generation to build massive supply chain infrastructures.”

    Watch Arjun's TEDx talk.

  • Robin Young – “The Ripple Effect of Kindness: Why Kindness is an Essential Leadership Competency”

    As DC’s Director of Corporate Training Services, Robin Young helps people and organizations boost performance and integrate change through workforce development.

    At TEDx, his presentation explored how small, compassionate actions can create a powerful ripple effect in personal and professional environments.

    “I encourage leaders to pause, reflect and choose kindness in times of stress and negativity, in order to create positive and lasting change in workplaces and communities.”

  • Stan Zalewski – “From Tent Cities to Thriving Communities: Rethinking Urban Housing”

    As Program Coordinator of Architectural Technology at DC, Stan Zalewski has inspired students to address important issues like sustainable building and the housing crisis. At TEDx, he spoke to these issues as they relate to Durham Region, as well as the rest of Canada

    “I described initiatives in various countries including Canada, Finland, and Austria, showing successes and setbacks in the fight against homelessness,” he said.

    “Homelessness is a structural ill of society and making housing available to all is possible. The means are available if we want to apply them.”

    Watch Stan's TEDx talk.

This year’s presentations will soon be available for viewing on the TEDxOshawa website, and plans for next year’s event are already underway.