Durham College (DC) students, employees and community members came together today for a Mini Powwow, in recognition of Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and to celebrate Indigenous culture, resilience and community.

The Powwow featured a teaching about Orange Shirt Day from Susan Byrne, Vice President, Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle; a sacred fire lighting ceremony by Ronald Leaman, Firekeeper and Director, Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle; and Jingle Dress teaching, drumming and dance demonstrations performed by Destiny, Rachel Taunton, and the High Tide Singers.

“Coming together in community is a powerful part of reconciliation,” said Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director, Indigenous Initiatives. “It’s about connecting, reflecting, and creating space to honour Indigenous cultures and resilience, while committing to the responsibility of truth.”

The event, held in the Naanaagide’endamowin “The Art of Thinking” Courtyard, at the Oshawa campus, was the culmination of a series of events and initiatives throughout the month designed for learning, reflection, and engagement and to encourage our community to consider how each of us can contribute to change.

“For many, today can feel heavy as we reflect on the injustices and lasting harms of the residential school system,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President, at the event. “But in that heaviness, there is also strength in Survivors, in their families, and in communities who continue to share their stories, culture, and wisdom.”

Today also serves as an important reminder of the work still ahead and the role each of us plays in fostering understanding and driving meaningful change, she continued.

“At Durham College, reconciliation is not just a goal,” Popp said. “It is part of who we are as a community. We are deepening connections, listening, learning, and creating opportunities that honour Indigenous voices and ways of knowing.”

Resources to support the DC community’s continued learning and reflecting on reconciliation are available:

• The DC Library has curated learning resources to deepen understanding, foster empathy, and take meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
• An online collection of stories highlights DC’s commitment to Indigenization.
• The Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation modules are free to everyone.

Today, the Durham College (DC) campuses are filled with the excitement that only the first day of a new academic year can bring.

Approximately 11,200 students have made DC their choice for an excellent post-secondary education this year, with more than half joining us for the very first time. These students will pursue credentials including graduate certificates, diplomas and degrees in 145-plus market-driven programs. That includes the first classes in our new Interior Decorating and Electric Drive Vehicle Technician programs; just two of our future-focused programs that are equipping students with the skills employers and our community are looking for.

Classes begin today, but we were already greeting students last week. A full slate of Academic Welcome events gave newcomers to DC a chance to connect with faculty, learn tips for success, and start building a strong foundation for their studies. Orientation events will continue throughout September, from a movie on the lawn to the famous Campus Cup and more.

This year, both of DC’s campuses feature refreshed spaces to benefit our campus community, including new pickup and drop-off zones to improve traffic flow and accessibility as well as accessibility upgrades in classrooms and community spaces.

To prepare and energize DC employees for the new year, we held our annual Academic Kickoff event on August 25. With a compelling keynote speaker and an informative panel discussion, we explored the importance of resilience and how it shapes us — individually and collectively — as we continue to support student success.

To our new and returning students, and to the dedicated faculty and employees who make it all possible, welcome to another year of growth and discovery at DC.

It’s not too late to be a part of the new year at DC! Visit www.durhamcollege.ca to explore our programs, campus events, and student life.

Durham College (DC) welcomed thousands of new students to the Oshawa and Whitby campuses this week for Academic Welcome, a cornerstone event that marks the beginning of the academic year and sets students up for success.

Faculty-specific events held throughout the week gave students their first opportunity to meet program teams, connect with peers and begin their journey with confidence. Each session featured a mix of faculty welcomes, community-building activities and prize draws, including a $2,000 tuition award provided by the Durham College Student Association (DCSA).

Beyond the formal welcome sessions, the week was also about connection and belonging. Students were encouraged to ask questions, share experiences and begin building a support network that will help guide them throughout their time at DC.

For many, it was also an opportunity to reflect on the journey ahead.

“I’m excited for everything, but especially about starting to learn the paramedic side of things,” said Jacob DeJong, a first-year student in the Paramedic program. “I’ve taken first aid and CPR courses, but now I’ll really see my future career coming into focus. I’m excited to watch it all come together.”

International students also shared their perspective on choosing DC.

“I’m not from Canada, I’ve never been here before,” said Bothina Mohamad, who recently arrived from Sudan to begin the Dental Assisting program. “I researched schools in Canada, and Durham College seemed really interesting. The campus looked nice, the application process was easy, and every time I emailed, they replied quickly. It felt very supportive.”

As students settle into their new routines, setting a strong foundation in the first days on campus is critical, said Christina Dixon, Manager, Student Development.

“Orientation is a key milestone in a student’s transition to college. It helps them build a sense of belonging, confidence and connection before classes even begin,” said Dixon. “Academic Welcome introduces students to program information and campus resources, fosters community and creates opportunities to meet the peers, staff and faculty who will support their success. By easing the uncertainty of starting college and building early engagement, Orientation lays the foundation for retention, well-being and long-term achievement.”

While Academic Welcome has officially concluded, opportunities to get involved continue throughout September with student life events including the Campus Cup, Whitby Block Party, Glowzone Headphone Disco and even a chance to watch a movie under the stars.

Learn more about orientation activities and resources.