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

Announcing DC’s 2026 Alumni of Distinction

Every year, Durham College (DC) recognizes exceptional graduates through its Alumni of Distinction Awards, celebrating alumni who are making meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.

The 2026 Alumni of Distinction recipients – Carrie-Anne Atkins, Matthew Canning, Dr. Danna Paulson, and Rachael Wraith – will be celebrated at Convocation in June and join more than 120 outstanding graduates who have been recognized by DC with this prestigious award.

While each recipient has followed a unique career path, what they do share is a connection to DC and a commitment to serving their communities, advancing their industries, and mentoring future generations.

“My education allowed me to pursue a career where helping people is my North Star,” said Canning, a 2009 graduate of DC’s Practical Nursing program.

From leading impactful local initiatives to driving change on a global scale, DC alumni continue to make a difference while inspiring future generations of students.

“One of the college’s highest honours, our Alumni of Distinction Awards give us the opportunity to highlight some of the many incredible individuals who are a part of our rapidly growing alumni network,” said Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Carrie-Anne, Matthew, Danna and Rachael are inspiring examples for graduating students and I look forward to celebrating their accomplishments.”

  • Carrie-Anne Atkins, Public Relations, Class of 1998

    Carrie-Anne Atkins is a senior strategic communications and stakeholder relations professional at Ontario Power Generation, currently Senior Manager, Corporate Relations & Projects at the Wesleyville Site, where she builds trusted relationships and advances key initiatives. A recognized leader in Durham Region, she has served in numerous volunteer positions across civic, philanthropic, business, environmental, and community organizations, including as President of the Durham College Alumni Association, Board Director of the Parkwood National Historic Site, President of Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Chair of the Durham Community Foundation. She is a strong ambassador for DC, building partnerships between the nuclear industry and the college that have resulted in program development and enhanced learning opportunities for students. Nationally, Atkins contributes to leadership development and gender equity in the nuclear sector through Women in Nuclear Canada and collaborates with government, industry, and communities to shape public understanding of energy and infrastructure projects.

  • Matthew Canning, Practical Nursing, Class of 2009

    Matthew Canning is the Clinical Director of Ontario’s largest in-person PrEP clinic, where he leads a multidisciplinary team delivering comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment services. The clinic serves more than 5,000 patients annually and provides both HIV-focused and primary care to a largely uninsured population. He is deeply committed to equitable access to HIV prevention and treatment, and to advancing the role of Nurse Practitioners in achieving this goal. His work has contributed to system-level improvements, including collaboration with the FAST-HIV program to support rapid linkage to HIV prevention services from emergency departments, and to the evolution of Ontario’s VitaLink program aimed at reducing financial barriers to laboratory testing. In addition to clinical leadership, he has served on HIV research advisory boards focused on expanding care for women and gender-diverse populations, was a part of the scientific steering committee for Canada’s first injectable PrEP (CAB-LA) guidance, and is a contributing author to the Canadian Family Practice Guidelines (2nd edition).

  • Dr. Danna Paulson, Dental Hygiene, Class of 2010

    Dr. Danna Paulson is a tenure-track Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Beginning her career in Ontario and then internationally in the Cayman Islands, she gained extensive experience in general, pediatric, and orthodontic dentistry before relocating to Minnesota to explore opportunities in teaching and research. A nationally recognized mentor, she demonstrates a dedication to lifelong learning and contributions to education, research, and leadership within her profession. In her role as Chair of Dental Hygiene Admissions at the University of Minnesota, she has contributed to a holistic review process that considers applicants’ broader experiences, strengths, and potential for success alongside academic achievement. Her scholarly work focuses on oral health-related quality of life and patient-centered outcomes research across diverse populations. In addition to her academic accomplishments, she has directly helped improve oral health access by organizing, attending, and expanding student involvement in community fluoride varnish clinics serving underserved adults and children in partnership with churches and schools, participating in Give Kids a Smile events and school-based oral health education programs, and volunteering in National Health Week initiatives.

  • Rachael Wraith, Public Relations, Class of 2007

    Rachael Wraith is an accomplished leader with nearly 20 years of experience in strategic communications, public engagement, and reputation management. As Associate Vice President at Global Public Affairs, Canada’s leading government relations and strategic communications firm, she provides senior counsel to national and international clients across various economic sectors. Prior to Global, she spent a decade in the public service and acted as a Public Information Officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in her career, she worked for an environmental NGO on key files in conservation, sustainability, water quality, and climate change. These efforts earned her recognition as one of Canada’s Top 25 Environmentalists under 25. A champion for DC and real-world experience, she has remained connected to the college by sharing her knowledge and inspiring future communications professionals as a Program Advisory Committee Chair, guest speaker, and mentor.

Convocation 2026 takes place from Monday, June 15 to Thursday, June 18 at the Tribute Communities Centre.

Largest gift in Durham College’s history supports the future of sustainable urban agriculture

Durham College (DC) has received multimillion-dollar, long-term funding from the Barrett Family Foundation, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college’s 59-year history.

This transformational donation will amplify the impact of the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), a community-based living lab where DC students and community members gain hands-on learning experiences through urban agriculture programming and operations. Learning opportunities will be enhanced through new programs, expanded scholarships and bursaries, and open educational resources. The purchase of new equipment and technologies will ensure graduates are career-ready, with the knowledge and skills to advance sustainable practices in the agriculture industry.

“We are deeply grateful for the Barrett Family Foundation’s continued investment in Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “This support reflects the power of our partnership — creating future-focused learning environments for students while strengthening connections between education and the evolving needs of communities and industries. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the future of sustainable urban agriculture in Durham Region and beyond.”

Since opening in 2023, the Barrett Centre has cultivated thriving partnerships rooted in a commitment to developing strong, locally sourced food supplies and educating future generations about nutrition and the importance of diverse food systems. To date, more than 37,000 community members have participated in workshops and activations, and over 9,000 pounds of food have been donated to local food banks and partners.

The Barrett Centre aims to be a benchmark institution helping to shape the future of sustainable food systems. This includes driving systems change across Canada and globally, empowering communities to replicate and scale the successful farming operations already established at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm and the college’s Whitby campus.

“Durham College is a leader in urban agriculture education,” said the Barrett Family Foundation. “Our financial contribution reflects our shared belief that sustainable urban agriculture is a key factor to building more resilient, food secure communities while also creating rewarding career opportunities.”

The Barrett Centre currently features approximately two acres of productive market gardens and orchards, an apiary, season extending hoop houses, the Food Literacy Innovation Zone, and an accessible indoor hydroponic farm – the first of its kind at a Canadian post-secondary institution. From June to October, the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm is open to the public during its Farm Gate Sales, when community members are invited to tour the farm and purchase fresh, low-cost produce grown on-site. Visit the Barrett Centre website to learn more.

Spring Open House connects future students with opportunities at Durham College

For thousands of prospective students and their families, Saturday’s Spring Open House at Durham College (DC) was more than a campus visit. It was a chance to talk with DC experts, clarify program details, and explore the many pathways open to them.

Across both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, visitors explored programs, asked thoughtful questions, and connected directly with the people who will guide them through their time at DC. Many prospective students took the next step right at the event, submitting applications in DC’s Apply Now room, while others left with a clearer sense of their options.

From specialized labs to collaborative learning spaces, guided tours gave guests a close look at where learning happens. Program areas brought their spaces to life with demonstrations and conversations that highlighted how DC’s programs align with the needs of today’s workforce and lead to strong career outcomes.

“Spring Open House is an important opportunity for future students to see themselves at Durham College,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “It allows them to explore their interests, meet our employees and experience firsthand the focused, welcoming environment that defines DC. We are proud to help students take the next steps toward a rewarding career.”

Beyond the classroom, visitors also learned about the services that help students thrive, including financial aid, wellness resources and career development. With more than $5 million available in scholarships, bursaries and awards, many left with a better understanding of how DC can help make their education more accessible.

The event drew future students at every stage of the process, some had already accepted their offers, others were still weighing their options, and some were simply planning ahead.

“I know that I want to go to college after I graduate from high school and even though that is a year away, I came to find out all I can about the skilled trades programs that are available,” said Dylan Rouse, a Grade 11 student. “Everyone here has been really helpful and answered all of my questions. It was easy to get all of the information I needed.”

Current students also played a key role throughout the day, sharing their experiences and offering practical insight into life at DC. Their perspectives added authenticity and gave visitors a grounded sense of what to expect.

This year’s Open House also featured Discover DC Degrees, an information session highlighting the college’s portfolio of degree programs and pathways. Visitors learned how DC degrees prepare graduates for in-demand careers and opportunities for graduate studies, and connected one-on-one with program experts and Transfer and Pathways advisors for personalized guidance.

Anyone who missed the event can register for DC’s upcoming Program Info Nights on May 12 and 13. These focused sessions allow future students to meet faculty and employees, explore specific programs in more detail, and get answers about admissions, pathways and next steps.

For many, Saturday was just the beginning, and an exciting first step toward a future at DC.

Start the school year strong!

Are you a new student? Our Getting Started at DC content collection has everything you need to make your transition smooth and successful.

Durham College Pushes Boundaries in Beverage Innovation

The Centre for Craft Brewing Innovation at Durham College has officially rebranded as the Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation, a move that reflects its growing role in supporting a broader spectrum of beverage creators across Ontario and beyond.

For more than a decade, CCBI has been a trusted partner for small-batch craft brewers, offering technical expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and hands-on support. But as the craft beverage industry has evolved, so has the Centre’s mission.

“In addition to helping brewers, we are also working with kombucha makers, cideries, wine artisans, and entrepreneurs developing alcohol-free beverages,” said Chris Gillis, Manager of Applied Research Business Development at the CCBI. “Our new name reflects both the diversity of creators we serve as well as the expanded services we offer to support collaboration, creativity and growth in Ontario’s craft beverage sector.”

A Broader Vision for Craft Beverage Makers

The name change signals a deep commitment to inclusivity and innovation in the craft beverage space. Whether fermenting, steeping, pressing, or carbonating, producers of all kinds now have a clearer path to market through CCBI’s expanded services.

The Centre now offers tailored programs for:

  • Established businesses looking to optimize production and reduce costs.
  • New entrepreneurs developing innovative beverage concepts.
  • Farm-based producers seeking to scale while preserving their local identity.

Services within these programs include product development, recipe refinement, lab testing, prototyping, and productivity optimization.

Programs That Meet Producers Where They Are

To better serve the diverse needs of the industry, CCBI has introduced three flagship programs:

  • Productivity Booster Program: Helps existing businesses streamline operations, reduce waste, and improve margins.
  • Product Innovator Program: Supports new product development with coaching, trend insights, and pilot testing.
  • Farm Beverage Innovator Program: Tailored for farm-based producers, offering guidance on scaling, compliance, and seasonal formulation.

Each program is designed to help producers avoid trial-and-error and make smarter, more strategic decisions from day one.

Innovation from Concept to Can

One of the Centre’s standout offerings is its Product Prototyping Service, which allows creators to test and refine their beverages in small batches using professional-grade equipment. This helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures consistency before scaling up.

“Whether it’s a new kombucha, beer, hard cider, or seltzer, we help turn ideas into customer-ready products,” said Gillis. “Our goal is to eliminate the guesswork and help producers launch with confidence.”

Quality and Compliance, Without the Guesswork

CCBI also offers Lab Testing Services that provide small producers with access to the same analytical tools used by major brands. From alcohol content and pH levels to microbial stability and shelf life, these tests ensure products meet regulatory standards and deliver consistent quality.

“Guessing doesn’t cut it when it comes to quality,” Gillis emphasized. “Our lab services give producers peace of mind — and a better experience for their customers.”

Said Gillis: “Whether you’re making kombucha in your kitchen or running a full-scale brewery, or cidery, you’ve got a partner in the CCBI.”

To learn more about our services or to partner with us, email CCBI@durhamcollege.ca.

 

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.

Future-Focused: DC Launching Strategic Planning Process

Durham College (DC) is kicking off a strategic planning process to develop its next Strategic Plan, which will launch in spring 2025.

For the past five years, DC’s work has been guided by its current Strategic Plan, which focused our commitment to serve our students, employees and communities. Now, as the plan concludes next March, preparations to develop DC’s next Strategic Plan are underway.

This planning process is an opportunity to shape the future of DC and is a collaborative effort requiring input from students, employees, alumni, donors and community partners.

“Together, we will consider how student and industry needs have changed, how we as an organization have evolved and how the landscape of higher education has shifted,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President. “The result will be a roadmap for tangible goals and objectives that will inform decision-making and resource allocation and will guide our efforts leading DC to even greater heights.”

A number of teams will be involved in bringing the new Strategic Plan to fruition. The Strategic Plan Steering Committee, consisting of Executive Leadership Team members, will ultimately oversee the project. A Strategic Plan Working Group with broad cross-college representation will lead the planning process, including facilitating consultation activities. They will work closely with two other groups: an external partner – The Potential Group – who will provide guidance on strategic planning methodology, as well as a Strategic Plan Resource Team who will provide institutional support.

This work will take place over the next several months and include four phases:

  • Phase 1 (July to September) – scoping, planning and setting initial direction, including a comprehensive environmental scan.
  • Phase 2 (October to December) – engaging our community and gathering insights through focused consultations, interviews and surveys.
  • Phase 3 (January to March) – refining the feedback through interactive, small-group sessions with key contributors, including students, employees, alumni, donors and community partners. 
  • Phase 4 (April to May) – developing the final Strategic Plan, which will be launched at our all-employee event in May.

      More information will be shared in the coming months, including the plan for upcoming consultations and the opportunities for key contributors to share their voices in this process.

      “This is a pivotal time for Durham College as we set the direction for our future,” said Dr. Popp. “I am excited to collaborate with our DC community as we move forward in building a sustainable, future-proof, equity-driven, people-focused and community-connected college.”

      Funding boost to Durham College’s AI Hub expands capacity

      Durham College (DC) is expanding the capacity of its centre of research excellence in artificial intelligence (AI) – the AI Hub – to provide tangible and transformative solutions to real-life business challenges, thanks to a $172,000 grant.

      The funding, announced by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), will support the purchase of two high-performance servers specifically optimized for Generative AI, performance graphics and analytics. These state-of-the-art servers will facilitate large data processing, significantly reducing the time required for data analysis and processing and allowing for increased support of the AI Hub’s diverse external clients across various industries.

      Over the past five years, DC’s AI Hub has partnered with more than 100 multi-sector organizations – with 70 per cent from the private sector – to deliver high-quality research and development and innovation services aligned with their needs.

      “The emergence of AI tools has significantly impacted the industry landscape, introducing new capabilities and reshaping business models across various sectors,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research. “This grant will allow DC to advance its ability to support businesses with innovative services that grow the economy and develop talent, further underscoring the AI Hub as a one-of-a-kind facility in Ontario.”

      In addition, the new tools provide DC students an opportunity for ongoing experiential learning. The AI Hub has a strong track record of engaging students in applied research and more than 250 students have been hired and trained as student research assistants. By using the advanced technology available, students gain hands-on experience, knowledge and enhanced skills to secure meaningful employment post-graduation. To date, 22 students have been directly hired by AI Hub partners, a testament to the skills gained through their on-campus learning.

      DC students claim 10 medals at Skills Ontario 2024 competition

      Durham College (DC) students competed against students from across the province to demonstrate their abilities in their fields at the three-day 2024 Skills Ontario Competition in Toronto.

      Thousands of high school and college students participated in this event, including more than 20 DC students who represented a wide range of disciplines, from coding and photography to auto service and restaurant service. In each category, students brought all of their skills and experience from DC to the different challenges set before them.

      In addition to DC taking home more than twice as many medals as last year – jumping from four medals in 2023 to 10 in 2024 – one student, Alexander Harley who was awarded gold in Auto Service Technology, will be moving on to Skills Canada Nationals Competition in Quebec.

      Sydney Rack won a bronze medal in the Horticultural/Landscape category and said winning was a blur. “I honestly didn’t even grasp that we placed until later that night,” Rack said. “It’s definitely strange because we all hope to win but I don’t know how many of us expected it.”

      Photography silver-medal winner, Brooke Warner, attributed her learning at Durham College to her win. “I definitely think there were a lot of different aspects of the competition and my ability to think on my feet and the things I learned from my product class helped me succeed and I felt very prepared for it.”

      Students are now looking towards their futures and how this award and training for the competition will help them in their future careers.

      “Events like Skills Ontario are incredible opportunities for our students to move beyond the classroom and put their knowledge and skills to the test in a fun and competitive environment,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic. “I am proud of all of the competitors and appreciate the time and support our faculty and staff put into ensuring our programs are preparing students for success in their fields.”

      The full list of DC winners includes:
      • Alexander Hartley – Gold, Auto Service Technology
      • Hanukshan Murugesu Pillai – Gold, Restaurant Service
      • Nicholas Simard -Gold, Metal Fabricator – Fitting (Welding)
      • Ryan Boldy – Gold, Coding
      • Brooke Warner – Silver, Photography
      • John France – Silver, Coding
      • Megan Terry – Silver, Heating Systems Technician
      • Sophia Lourenco – Silver, Aesthetics
      • Destry Young – Bronze, Auto Service Technology
      • Sydney Rack and Payton Archer – Bronze, Horticultural / Landscape (Team of 2)

      Durham College events aim to inspire and empower Black youth

      Durham College (DC) welcomed more than 800 Black students from the Durham District School Board (DDSB) in April for two days of engagement, empowerment and exploration.

      The Cypher: Black Male Empowerment Conference, returned for its fourth year, and the Empower Her conference for Black females, was held at DC for the first time. The two events gave students in Grades 7 to 10 the opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs, community leaders and organizations through interactive workshops, engaging discussions and networking sessions to help inspire and educate them about post-secondary options.

      “We are proud to welcome these young Black students to Durham College to help them connect to their inherent value, build key relationships, and expose them to a wide range of post-secondary opportunities particularly within the field of STEM as part of our RISE Resilient programming,” said Dr. Sadie K. Goddard-Durant, Director, Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at DC.

      Deminion, a Grade 7 student who attended The Cypher conference, said the workshops were fun and innovative. “We had to work together, have perseverance, and always have trust in your brothers,” he said.

      At the Empower Her conference, student Lyric said she enjoyed the keynote speaker, Quisha Wint, a musician, singer and artist. She said the opening session made her feel good about herself. “They mentioned how much we were queens. It was very inspiring.”

      The event aligns with the DDSB’s vision of students experiencing joyful experiences which lead to self-determination, self-liberation and for them to achieve anything they desire, said Kokhulani Yasodaran, Anti-Oppression Facilitator at the DDSB.

      “We know that the systemic barriers these students and their families face due primarily to anti-Black racism and sexism adversely impact their access to postsecondary education, and ultimately their abilities to reach their full potential as leaders, problem solvers and innovators in society,” added Goddard-Durant. “By providing a safe space to explore their educational and career pathways we are exposing them to what future is possible for them to achieve.”