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A garden rooted in relationships, learning, and the land

A new Indigenous garden is taking shape at Durham College’s (DC) Whitby Campus. More than a space to grow plants, it offers an opportunity to learn from the land, build relationships, and explore Indigenous approaches to sustainability.

The garden is part of the campus’ food forest — a growing approach rooted in Indigenous agricultural practices that bring together a variety of edible plants in layers that reflect the structure of a natural forest — and contributes to DC’s commitment to expand Indigenous-led initiatives, creating space for Indigenous knowledge, teachings, and perspectives.

Developed in partnership with The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), which supports hands-on learning and exploration in sustainable food production and agriculture, the project began with an Indigenous ground blessing in May.

“The Barrett Centre is a place where we can explore new approaches to growing food and caring for the land, and the Indigenous garden adds an important dimension to that work,” said Carey Yeoman, Strategic Initiatives Manager, Barrett Centre. “The ground blessing marked the beginning of our Indigenous Agroecology installation, which will encourage a broader way of thinking about food production and what a farm can offer as a learning environment. It demonstrates that there are many ways to work with the land and produce food while caring for the health of the soil.”

Growing knowledge through connection

At the heart of the garden are teachings about relationships and reciprocity.

Sweetgrass, known as the hair of Mother Earth, is among the medicines growing. Also used in braiding practices, sweetgrass represents the strength that comes from bringing individual strands together. On their own, the strands are not as strong; woven together, they become stronger. The teaching reflects the importance of relationships and community and connects with DC’s Braiding Learning Framework.

In keeping with Indigenous teachings, tobacco, known as the first medicine, is another important component in the garden. Tobacco is offered back to the Earth when plants or medicines are harvested as a gesture of gratitude, reinforcing the idea of living with the land rather than simply using it.

Learning across disciplines

Developed as a cross-collaborative project, the garden draws on the Anishinaabe’s Seven Grandfather Teachings, which encourage us to honour the knowledge shared by those who came before, learn from experience, and remain open to the experiences and teachings of others.

It is also creating opportunities for students across DC to bring their skills and perspectives together through hands-on learning.

Horticulture Technician and Horticulture – Food and Farming students put their knowledge into practice through planting and harvesting. Carpentry and Renovation students built the raised planters and benches, while Graphic Design students are contributing signage, illustrations, and interactive QR code elements that will help visitors learn more about the space. In the kitchen, Culinary Management students are exploring innovative ways to work with and harvest the crops.

“The garden is a space where community and learning come together, and where students can see how different areas of knowledge connect,” said Jennifer Fournier, Teaching and Learning Consultant – Indigenous Pedagogies, DC. “Bringing Indigenous teachings, agriculture, design, skilled trades, and culinary learning into one shared space creates meaningful opportunities to learn from one another and understand the value of working together.”

A naming ceremony will take place in the future to formally announce the garden’s Anishinaabe name, marking another step in its story and the relationships that continue to grow from it.

Durham College, City of Oshawa partnership puts student ideas into action

What could a future transit corridor look like in downtown Oshawa? How could mixed reality help firefighters prepare for leadership roles? And what stories can public art tell along one of the city’s bike trails?

These are some of the questions Durham College (DC) students have explored through the college’s partnership with the City of Oshawa’s TeachingCity initiative. Across a range of programs, DC students and faculty are working with City staff to bring new ideas, skills and perspectives to projects that benefit the community.

For students in DC’s Architectural Technology program, the challenge was to reimagine several properties along Oshawa’s designated future transit corridor. Working with the City’s Planning Services branch, students researched development policies and regulations, considered market demand and costs, and developed proposals focused on affordable housing, sustainability, pedestrian experience, and transit. They presented their work to City staff at an open house at City Hall, gaining insight into the many considerations involved in planning and developing land.

“The TeachingCity partnership exemplifies DC’s commitment to high-impact experiential learning,” says Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning, Research, Innovation and Training Services (RITS). “By working alongside City of Oshawa staff on projects that have a direct impact on the community, our students gain professional experience while contributing creativity, innovation, and fresh perspectives to challenges facing Oshawa. These projects show how collaboration between education and community partners can create meaningful benefits for everyone involved.”

The partnership is also bringing emerging technology to a challenge faced by Oshawa Fire Services. Through DC’s Mixed Reality Capture Studio, three Game – Art graduates will be hired to help develop a mixed reality training and assessment application. The application will simulate the assessment of a building during a fire call. Candidates preparing for firefighter leadership roles will practise identifying hazards and determining appropriate response strategies in a controlled environment.

In Oshawa’s public spaces, Fine Arts – Advanced students have contributed artwork to wayfinding signage along the Joseph Kolodzie Bike Trail. Six student works were selected and installed, with themes exploring active transportation, environmental sustainability, wildlife, and the relationship between urban and natural spaces.

DC students have also helped visitors experience the new Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park. Their curriculum-based project contributed to the park’s digital wayfinding experience, which includes information about the park’s history, ecology, amenities, and gardens, along with 360-degree viewing and an auditory tour guide.

For some 9-1-1 Emergency and Call Centre Communications students, the partnership provides a pathway into the field. DC students participating in Oshawa Fire Services’ Fire 911 Communications placements gain exposure to emergency telecommunications and the work of communications professionals. Nikki Bradshaw was among the first DC students to participate and later successfully applied for a position with the department. She is now training as part of Oshawa’s Fire Communications team.

Together, these projects show how the TeachingCity partnership connects DC with the community to address local challenges, advance experiential learning and help shape Oshawa’s future.

Durham College recognizes Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with second annual Mini Powwow

On Wednesday, September 30, the Durham College (DC) community gathered to recognize Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The second annual Mini Powwow, hosted by DC’s First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC), honoured the Survivors of the residential school system, their families and communities, and the children who never returned home.

“Today, we come together in the spirit of remembrance, reflection, and reconciliation. This is a day to honour Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, while acknowledging the lasting impacts of these institutions. It is also a day to listen, to learn, and to carry these teachings forward in our everyday lives,” said Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director, Indigenous Initiatives.

Sharing their wisdom at the morning event were Elder Dorothy Taylor of Curve Lake First Nation, who opened the proceedings with a prayer, and Susan Byrne, president of the Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle, who shared reflections and teachings.

The Powwow also featured a sacred fire lighting ceremony by Firekeeper and three-time DC alumnus Ronald Leaman, as well as drumming, dancing and teachings by the High Tide Singers and Head Dancer Brooke Wheeler, Peyton Jones and Rachel Taunton, FPIC’s Indigenous Communities Outreach Coordinator, who was instrumental in the creation of this new DC tradition.

The event was held in the Naanaagide’endamowin “The Art of Thinking” Courtyard at the Oshawa campus, as well as inside the FPIC space in the Centre for Collaborative Education. The afternoon’s activities included drop-in crafts, fireside chats and vendors, and a traditional Plant Teachings workshop hosted by Matthew Levac.

Also in support of the day, the Durham College Student Association hosted a button-making event earlier in the week, where students were invited to create a button, reflect on the significance of the day, and show their commitment to truth, reconciliation, and the message that Every Child Matters.

“For post-secondary institutions, including DC, reconciliation carries a particular responsibility. We play an important role in advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action by creating spaces where Indigenous knowledge, histories, and perspectives are respected and valued; in addressing systemic barriers; and in supporting meaningful change,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President.

“Our commitment to this work is reflected in our Strategic Vision and demonstrated in our daily actions that bring Indigenous ways of knowing into teaching and learning, amplify Indigenous voices and stories, deepen relationships with Indigenous communities, and create opportunities for employees and students to further their understanding of Indigenous histories and experiences.”

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

Durham College partners on Memory Forest project at Whitby Campus

Durham College (DC), Trees for Life, and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario are working together on a Memory Forest project at DC’s Whitby campus, with support from the Barrett Family Foundation.

A ceremony was held at the site on September 16 to mark the start of project with the planting of a single tree. Over the coming months, a section of the Whitby campus grounds will be developed as an accessible green space for people living with dementia, their caregivers, and other community members.

Plans for the space include native tree planting, accessible pathways, high-contrast wayfinding, tactile features, sensory plantings, and gathering areas. Trees for Life is contributing knowledge of native tree planting and urban greening as the site is developed, while the Alzheimer Society of Ontario is providing expertise related to dementia inclusion.

The Memory Forest will also involve DC learners in the care and development of the site. DC will lead the design of nature-based programming, while learners can contribute to stewardship activities and gain hands-on experience.

“The Memory Forest is a great example of how partnerships can create opportunities for DC and the broader community,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “We’re pleased to be working with Trees for Life and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario on this project and to provide a space that is welcoming to people living with dementia and their caregivers.”

Development of the Memory Forest is expected to continue into 2027 as DC and its community partners work to establish the new space at the Whitby campus.

Bistro ’67 wins two Whitby Reader’s Choice awards

Bistro ’67 has been recognized as one of Whitby’s most popular dining establishments.

This summer, Durham College’s (DC) teaching-inspired restaurant won two Reader’s Choice Awards for Whitby; nabbing a Diamond in the ‘Best Bang for Your Buck’ category, and a Platinum in ‘Best Vegetarian Restaurant.’

The success of Bistro ’67 is a true team effort and a direct reflection of DC’s commitment to experiential learning and innovation, according to Lori Saint, General Manager of the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food.

Horticulture Food and Farming and Horticulture Technician students grow and harvest ingredients on campus. In the kitchen, Culinary Skills and Culinary Management students turn those ingredients into meals. Hospitality Skills and Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management students complete the experience by welcoming and serving guests.

“Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and it’s rewarding to know that our guests value both the dining experience and the opportunity to support student learning,” she said. “The restaurant is a collaborative learning environment where education and industry come together.”

When considering the Platinum award, she points to the students and staff who work the fields at the Whitby campus as well as the Barrett Centre for Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture’s Ajax farm for making Bistro ’67 a terrific choice for vegetarian diners.

“It speaks to one of the things that makes Bistro ’67 unique,” she said. “We love collaborating with the Barrett Centre team and are continually inspired by the incredible produce they grow. Having access to such fresh, seasonal ingredients allows our chefs and students to be creative, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see our guests embrace those dishes.”

By investing in sustainable food systems, hands-on training, and local partnerships, DC has created a truly unique dining experience that the community has embraced.

“Bistro ’67 allows students to develop valuable real-world skills while providing guests with fresh, seasonal cuisine,” said Saint. “This award is a recognition of that shared commitment to excellence across the college.”

International partnership with Durham College and the University of the Highlands and Islands advances renewable energy education and workforce development

Canada’s growing investment in renewable energy infrastructure is increasing demand for skilled professionals with the expertise to plan and deliver complex energy projects. To meet this need, Durham College (DC), in partnership with the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) in Scotland, is launching an online training module that provides learners the skills needed to manage renewable energy projects from planning through implementation.

Registration is now open for the Renewable Energy Project Management module, which is designed for both those entering the energy sector as well as working professionals. Delivered entirely online with flexible start dates, participants can begin at any time and progress at their own pace. Covering the full project lifecycle, participants will build practical skills in stakeholder engagement, budgeting, risk management, and project planning using industry-standard tools in less than 12 weeks. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a dual-branded Acknowledgement of Completion from both DC and UHI.

“Canada’s clean energy transition depends on more than new technology. It requires a workforce with the skills to turn ambitious projects into reality,” said Robin Young, Executive Director, Business and Workforce Development, Corporate Training Services at DC. “DC is uniquely positioned to bridge skill gaps with our specialized training facilities, industry-aligned curriculum, and deep ties to Canada’s energy sector needed to meet the growing demand for skilled talent.”

The module will be created by specialist colleagues at UHI Moray on behalf of UHI, reflecting the university partnership strengths, drawing on UHI Moray’s expertise in energy education. This collaborative approach ensures a globally informed curriculum that reflects current industry practices and the evolving needs of the energy sector across Canada and the United Kingdom.

“This exciting module draws on the strength of international collaboration in addressing the skills needed for the transition to a low-carbon economy,” shared Professor Su Bryan, Dean of Science, Health and Environment at UHI. “Our partnership with Durham College combines complementary expertise and industry insights to create flexible learning to support energy transition.  This programme will be delivered by our specialist colleagues at UHI Moray. It reflects the collective expertise and shared ambition of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) partnership to provide accessible, high-quality education with global relevance.”

The module marks the first initiative to emerge from DC’s partnership with UHI, bringing together international academic expertise with input from leading energy sector organizations, including Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Statkraft, and SSE Renewables Ltd.

“Demand for clean, reliable renewable power continues to grow, and so does the need for skilled professionals who can help deliver complex energy projects,” said Mike Woodcock, Vice President, Operations, Ontario Power Generation. “OPG’s renewable assets have supported Ontario’s energy needs for generations, and continued investment in upgrades, redevelopment and optimization is essential to meeting future demand. Modules like this play an important role in building the workforce needed to lead renewable energy projects and support the province’s energy future.”

Registration is now open, and learners can start as early as September 14, 2026. As a self-paced module with continuous intakes, participants can register at any time and choose their preferred start date.

More information is available on the Renewable Energy Management Module webpage and on the Skills for Jobs Canada website.

Local high school students cook up sustainable solutions at Durham College

This spring, local high school students from the Durham District School Board (DDSB) put their burgeoning culinary skills to the test at Durham College (DC), creating delicious dishes while learning how sustainable ingredients can reduce food costs, improve nutrition, and lessen environmental impact.

At DC’s W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, 30 students in Grades 10 to 12 from Eastdale CVI, Uxbridge Secondary School, Henry Street High School, and J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate took part in the inaugural Sustainability Challenge. The participants prepared soups, stews, and chili recipes containing at least 30 per cent beans and lentils (also referred to as pulses), while showcasing seasonal Ontario ingredients.

“The contest gave students an opportunity to experience sustainability in action,” said DC faculty member, David Hawey. “By combining plant-based ingredients with traditional proteins, students discovered they could create nutritious, affordable, and environmentally responsible meals without sacrificing flavour. Just as importantly, they experienced what it’s like to learn and work in a professional cooking environment.”

Before the event, Hawey and fellow DC faculty members Peter Lee and Ron Subden visited the students at their schools to discuss the importance of sustainable cooking practices.

The competitors were then able to build off that knowledge to produce recipes utilizing seasonal ingredients and pulses, while reducing food waste.

“Anytime we can work together with Durham College, it adds a lot of value for our students,” said Krista Parker, Dual Credit Facilitator with the DDSB. “Getting the college instructors into our classrooms and helping our students is a fantastic opportunity. We are grateful for all that DC does to support Durham District School Board students.”

While the young chefs were hard at work in the kitchen, 30 additional students attended as guests, touring the Whitby Campus while serving as official tasters during the People’s Choice portion of the competition.

For DC, the event was an opportunity to strengthen relationships with local high schools, showcase our state-of-the-art facilities and industry-driven programs to prospective students, and emphasize the importance of sustainability in food production.

“Sustainability is embedded in our culinary programs,” said Hawey. “It’s important to address food insecurity, rising prices, and responsible agricultural and food production techniques, all of which raise awareness of environmental and financial sustainability.”

Are you passionate about food? Learn more about DC’s culinary programs online.

Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association honours Durham College with Community Service Award

Durham College’s (DC) Athletics and Recreation department has received national recognition for its commitment to inclusive sport.

The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) named DC as the recipient of its Community Service Award for the 2025-26 season.

DC was recognized for the ‘Sport is for everyBODY!’ parasport initiative, a partnership with ParaSport Ontario, focused on creating inclusive and accessible sport and recreation opportunities for students and community members of all abilities.

Throughout the year, DC introduced students and community members to wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, sledge hockey and other adaptive sports. The college was also the host venue for major parasport events like the 2025 Wheelchair Basketball National Championships and national team training camps, as well as the Ontario Volleyball Association’s sitting volleyball camps.

“Community engagement has always been at the heart of what we do at Durham College, and everybody has contributed to this initiative: our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and community partners,” said Scott Dennis, Director of Athletics and Recreation at DC. “To be recognized nationally is incredibly meaningful. Sport is for everybody, and we want to get people involved in athletics in any way we can.”

The initiative also created hands-on learning opportunities for DC students, who worked alongside leaders from Parasport Ontario to deliver inclusive programming like goalball, boccia, and sitting volleyball.

The Athletics and Recreation team intends to build on the initiative in the future, with plans underway for a Parasport Summer Camp next year, as well as more athletic offerings.

To learn more about inclusive sports at DC, visit the Durham Lords website and social media.

Barrett Centre recognized as Community Agent of Change by Pickering College

The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture at Durham College (DC) has been recognized for its work in creating and supporting innovative solutions that empower the community to build and participate in resilient local food systems.

Earlier this year, Pickering College honoured the Centre with its Community Agent of Change award. The award is given annually to individuals and organizations who leave the world better than they found it and represent the Quaker values the school upholds.

“The Barrett Centre is honoured to receive this award, recognizing our team’s work to create lasting systemic impact,” said Brenna Bizley, Partnership Manager. “A core element of our work is related to food literacy and understanding how food grows, while also connecting with youth to help them become good stewards of the earth, their communities, and schools.”

The Barrett Centre has worked with Pickering College to deliver urban agriculture workshops to students, consult on the growth of the school’s Blue and Silver farm, and share expertise on best practices.

“Community engagements like this are a great opportunity to develop new programs and workshops for various age groups, demographics, and learning styles,” said Bizley. “Having engaged over 17,000 community members through educational initiatives and digital resources, we are building more resilient local food systems.”

Regional Chair’s Classic honours Roger Anderson, raises funds for DC students and mental health programs

The 2026 Regional Chair’s Classic in Memory of Roger Anderson united community leaders, generous sponsors, and golf enthusiasts in support of students and mental health initiatives across Durham Region.

The 28th annual tournament was held on Thursday, June 11 at Deer Creek Golf and Country Club in Ajax. Over 160 participants came together to help students at Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University and support patient-focused programs at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences.

This year’s tournament raised an impressive $220,000, bringing the event’s total fundraising efforts to over $8.3 million since its inception.

“We are deeply grateful for this award and the meaningful impact it has on our students year after year. By helping to ease financial burdens, this support empowers students to focus on their academic goals and achieve their full potential,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice-President, Advancement and Alumni Relations at DC.

At DC, the funds support domestic students in financial need and with good academic standing. Over 1000 students have benefitted from the Regional Chair Classic Award in Memory of Roger Anderson since its inception.

“I’m so proud of the impact this tournament has had over the years. Bringing people together in support of causes that make a real difference in our community truly reflects Roger Anderson’s legacy,” said Regional Chair John Henry. “I’m grateful for the generosity, compassion and community spirit I’ve seen here today as we support students and advance critical mental health initiatives.”

The cheque presentation featured Christina Sorbara, Tech with a Conscience Campaign Chair, Ontario Tech; John Chen, President and CEO, Ontario Shores; John Henry, Durham Regional Chair; Sarah and Warren Anderson (Roger Anderson’s family); Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.

Next year’s Regional Chair’s Classic is scheduled for June 10, 2027.