2004 Alumni of Distinction

Al Duffy Business Administration — Operations Management, 1976 Al Duffy founded the Productivity Improvement Centre, known as The PIC Group in 1985. The PIC Group began as a three-day seminar and evolved into an organization that is recognized as a quality assurance leader, with locations in Oshawa and Madison Heights, Michigan and satellite operations in western Ontario and throughout the southern United States. As president and chief operating officer, Duffy is responsible for approximately 1,700 employees and has hired many Durham College graduates and placement students. He also uses his knowledge and leadership skills as a member of the Cathedral Bluffs Yacht Club in Scarborough, Ontario, which raises money for Ronald McDonald House through its annual Cruise for Kids event.

Andrew Popko Public Relations, 1987 Andrew Popko has built his career on creating firsts for aboriginal groups in the world of business, most currently as vice-president of Aboriginal Relations for Calgary-based EnCana Corporation. His work in the area of aboriginal relations led to the launch of several First Nations business ventures, helping First Nations and Metis communities improve their quality of life. In November 2003, the Tribal Chiefs Institute presented him with a Lifetime Achievement award for pioneering innovative, capacity-building programs within aboriginal communities. He was also appointed Honorary Chief of the Heart Lake First Nation in August 2003. A year later, Popko began working for the Privy