Durham College celebrates 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients Posted on May 28, 2025 at 9:42 am. 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 Posted on May 23, 2025 at 9:27 am. 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 Posted on May 21, 2025 at 2:27 pm. 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 Posted on May 9, 2025 at 10:56 am. 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. DC grad Daylan Belsey places first in Animation at the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge Posted on May 9, 2025 at 10:36 am. Durham College (DC) animation grad Daylan Belsey recently won top spot in the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge, landing him a coveted internship at Ubisoft Toronto. More than 300 aspiring game developers from across the province participated in the annual event, submitting projects across nine categories. Participants in the Animation category, including Belsey, were challenged to display an understanding of body mechanics and acting through body language. Belsey’s winning submission expertly captured the category’s theme of shock both literally and through the emotion of his characters. A 2024 graduate of DC’s Animation – Digital Production program, he leveraged the skills and professional growth he acquired during his time as a student. “There are so many different places to take inspiration from with this sort of project,” said Belsey. “I actually submitted a piece in last year’s competition, too, but at the time I didn’t have an eye for some of the mistakes I was making and didn’t quite know how to strengthen the theme in my piece.” While participating in the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge is not a mandatory part of the program, it is encouraged and students are able to use their submission as a project in class. “Regardless of how the competition went, my side goal was to improve my workflow, acting and body mechanics, and to have a great demo reel piece – my expectations were blown out of the water when I placed first,” he said. “Everybody at the studio was so kind and I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from them.” Student’s in DC’s Animation – Digital Production program have access to state-of-the-art equipment including the Mixed Reality Capture Studio, as well as supportive, expert faculty. Belsey fondly remembered the pride and comradery he felt during the program’s final All-Years Screening where students debut their work to faculty and peers. He also highly values the essential soft skills he developed in the program such as collaboration and problem solving. “I was happy, although not surprised, to see Daylan win,” said Faculty Member Gary Chapple. “He was always one of the hardest working students, he thrived on feedback, was very dedicated to pushing himself – and is also just a super nice person.” Thousands of students return to Durham College for spring semester Posted on May 5, 2025 at 12:38 pm. Durham College (DC) welcomed over 3,500 students for the new Spring semester, this week. Our Faculties of Business and Information Technology and Health Sciences will deliver innovative, hands-on learning to our returning and first-year students. “It’s always so exciting to see our campus filled with students on the first day of classes,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Watching students take their first steps toward building their future careers—and knowing they’re on a path to make a real impact both locally and globally—is incredibly inspiring. Their excitement is contagious and reminds all of us at DC why we’re so passionate about creating a welcoming environment where every student can thrive and feel like they truly belong.” On May 2, Academic Welcome Day gave new students their first chance to meet classmates, connect with faculty members and get important information about their programs. “It made me feel more comfortable and ready for my classes,” said Lina Charles, a first-year Practical Nursing student. A number of fun activities are planned for the rest of May to help them excel both in and out of the classroom, from donut giveaways and crafting sessions to workshops on time management and academic integrity. The semester may have begun, but there’s still time to register for your own DC program. Limited space is available in our Computer Systems Technician, Computer Programming, Cloud Computing and Fitness and Health Promotion programs. Registration is open until May 16, so don’t delay! To learn more about DC, including the full range of programs that start in September, visit us at Program Information Nights May 13 (Oshawa campus) and 14 (Whitby campus). Durham College Young Women in Science, Technology and Trades Conference ignites passion and possibilities for Grade 7 and 8 girls Posted on April 30, 2025 at 1:37 pm. What do slime-making, building airplanes, and cooking up custom spring rolls all have in common? They were just a few of the hands-on workshops offered at Durham College’s (DC) Young Women in Science, Technology and Trades (YWSTT) Conference, where hundreds of Grade 7 and 8 girls explored exciting career possibilities in science, technology, and skilled trades. Held April 25 and 26 across DC’s Oshawa and Whitby campuses, the annual conference provided a dynamic day of exploration, experimentation, and empowerment. From assembling electromagnets in the robotics lab to testing patient monitors in health care workshops, young students were given a vibrant, roll-up-your-sleeves experience designed to ignite curiosity and confidence. “We’re excited to welcome the next generation of changemakers to our campus,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Today is all about discovery – sparking curiosity, building confidence, and imagining the possibilities. Science, technology, and skilled trades offer dynamic, hands-on careers that make a real impact in our communities. Our goal is to introduce these opportunities early in their academic journey and create a space where every student feels empowered to explore paths and imagine a future without limits.” Participants rotated through a wide variety of workshops, including building birdhouses, crafting hula hoops from PEX pipe, designing custom packaging, and even experimenting with water fireworks in a jar. Each session was led by DC faculty, students, or industry professionals who were eager to share their knowledge and passion. Industry partners were key to the conference experience, offering both inspiration and hands-on learning. Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company, opened each day with welcome remarks as the Conference Presenting Sponsor, setting an encouraging tone for participants. The two Keynote Presenting Sponsors – Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in Oshawa, and RESCON in Whitby – leveraged their expertise and reinforced the conference’s empowering message. Local employers, including Workshop Presenting Sponsors Elexicon Energy and Gerdau – Whitby Mill were also on hand to lead engaging sessions and provide students with valuable opportunities to learn directly from industry professionals. Keynote speakers Constanza Maass and Paige Heron inspired attendees with their stories of perseverance and success, encouraging young girls to pursue careers they may never have imagined. DC’s YWSTT Conference continues to grow each year, empowering the next generation of young women and girls to pursue paths in these exciting fields. Durham College and Lakeridge Health Foundation team up for NightShift 2025 emergency simulation event Posted on April 23, 2025 at 1:07 pm. Durham College’s (DC) state-of-the-art simulation labs and classrooms will transform into a fast-paced medical emergency zone as NightShift 2025 takes over on April 24. This unique fundraising event – the first and only medical simulation challenge for the public in North America – is hosted in partnership with Lakeridge Health Foundation (LHF). On site, DC lab technologists and faculty members will lead the immersive emergency health care simulation event where guests participate in high-intensity, surprise medical simulations learning vital skills while competing for prizes and bragging rights – all while supporting local health care. “This event shines a spotlight on the hands-on experiences DC offers in these life-saving industries,” said Dr. Rebecca Milburn, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. “It offers a glimpse of the valuable experiential learning our students receive every day, and a great example of how we’re working with partners like Lakeridge Health Foundation to support innovation in health education and our broader community.” In a truly collaborative effort, DC faculty and lab technicians offered their expertise in the simulation design, staff and faculty will be involved behind the scenes, and students will also have the opportunity to volunteer, enhancing their own learning through real-time involvement. The event will highlight the long-standing partnership between the college and Lakeridge Health, which provides DC students with valuable learning placements in fields like nursing, personal support work, and health care support. Learn more about NightShift 2025 – a night where learning, community, and adrenaline collide. Innovation meets impact: Durham College named one of Canada’s 2025 Greenest Employers for ninth year Posted on April 22, 2025 at 11:33 am. Durham College (DC) is proud to be named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers of 2025, earning the honour for the ninth consecutive year. This achievement highlights DC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and the innovative efforts students and employees are making to create a greener future on campus and beyond. Sustainability is a core value at DC, shaping how the college operates, educates and partners with the community. “Our goal is to lead by example – showing our students and employees what it means to act with environmental responsibility, so they are empowered to build a more sustainable future,” said Amanda Blenkhorn, Director of Ancillary Services and Chair of the college’s Green Impact Team. “I’m incredibly happy that we aim to promote environmental stewardship and continue to champion sustainability at every level.” From waste reduction initiatives to experiential learning opportunities for students, DC marked key milestones over the past year that support environmental progress on campus and in the community: Greener Learning Spaces The opening of the following innovative spaces reinforced DC’s commitment to sustainable learning: Opening the Vanhaverbeke Family EV Training Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that will prepare students for careers with electric vehicles and cleaner transportation and welcome the first cohort of students from the new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician program this fall. Diverting over 6.3 metric tonnes of food through the biodigester in The Centre for Organic Regeneration, supports a zero-waste culinary model and challenges students to be creative with all aspects of food. Promoting urban farming and sustainable food production at The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture’s Urban Farm in Ajax enhancing experience and education. Driving Collaboration and Innovation DC fosters a culture of environmental responsibility that extends beyond the classroom: In March, 2025, Enactus Durham College competed in the Central Regional Exposition, where the Second Sole project team earned the title of Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Central Regional Champions. They tackled the issue of single-use gloves waste by repurposing the material into useful products like hockey pucks and shoe soles. Building on this success, DC’s Green Impact Team is exploring ways to partner with Enactus Durham College and expand the project to areas across campus to reduce the college’s environmental footprint. The RBC Urban Agriculture Program provides funding to 10 DC student-led projects that support urban agriculture – any farming or food production done in an urban area. The Social Impact Hub supports additional student and staff-led community initiatives, focusing on applied research and experiential learning. These projects address complex social challenges, including climate change, through innovation and collaboration. Sustainable Campus Grounds DC’s Facilities team adopts greener practices across both campuses, including recent work of: Removing invasive poplars and repurposing them as giraffe food via a partnership with the Toronto Zoo. Planting three new pollinator gardens. Installing new bike racks and repair stations to support eco-friendly commuting. Launching a reusable container program for on-the-go meals on campus. By investing in sustainable infrastructure, empowering student initiatives and improving campus operations, DC is working toward a greener future – one innovation at a time. Durham College’s recognition is part of the 2025 Canada’s Greenest Employers competition, organized by the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. Read DC’s Greenest Employer profile online. Durham College welcomes 3,000+ to Spring Open House Posted on April 17, 2025 at 11:45 am. There was excitement in the air at Spring Open House as over 3,000 prospective students and their families immersed themselves in the programs, people, and possibilities that make Durham College (DC) a leader in post-secondary education. From hands-on demonstrations to campus tours and one-on-one time with expert faculty and service area reps, guests learned how DC is continually evolving to meet the needs of both students and industry. “This year’s Spring Open House was tremendous, and a true reflection of what Durham College stands for — innovation, opportunity, and a commitment to student success,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Our guests discovered the hands-on learning, supportive community, and industry-driven programs that define the DC experience. I’m so excited by the energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm we saw from future students and their families.” For Bella and Josh Patterson, Open House was truly a family affair. The siblings from Cobourg will begin their studies this fall in Game – Art and Animation – Digital Production, respectively. “The options that the program has, and the career options that come afterward, interested me most,” explained Bella. Josh, meanwhile, is looking forward to the hands-on learning opportunities and direct access to faculty members. “With the smaller classes, it seems like the teaching will be on a more personal level,” he said. A number of visitors confirmed their admission offers, while others were so impressed with DC that they applied to their program of choice on the spot. A number of current DC students took part in the event, sharing their experience and passion with the next generation. It was a unique opportunity for second-year Interactive Media Design student Patricia Datu, who was attending Open House for the first time. “This event is awesome,” she said. “The students are enthusiastic, going to the booths and asking questions. It’s really cool to see how engaged they are.” Datu complemented her own DC experience by completing a work study position as a Social Media Assistant and was busy at Open House capturing the event to share on DC’s social media channels. She encouraged all new students to get involved and make the most of their time here. If the energy on display Saturday is any indication, thousands of new students will be doing just that this fall. Missed Open House? No problem! Join us on May 13 and 14 at our Program Information Nights. « 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 … 79 »
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