November 17 marked another milestone day for Durham College when it honoured the success of more than 350 graduates at its annual fall convocation ceremony held at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre at the Oshawa campus.

The event saw graduates and their families and friends join Durham College President Don Lovisa; members of the college’s leadership team and board of governors; faculty and staff; and guest speaker Dan Quinn, a 1984 Sports Administration program graduate who is also a 2011 Durham College Alumnus of Distinction Award winner, as they gathered to watch students from the schools of Business, IT & Management; Continuing Education; Health & Community Services; Interdisciplinary Studies & Employment Services; Justice & Emergency Services; Media, Art & Design; Science & Engineering Technology; and Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology receive their credentials. 

“As you step into the next chapter and begin what I am sure will be a long list of accomplishments in the years ahead, be confident in the distinct advantage your Durham College credential will give you in the workplace,” said Lovisa. “I encourage you to use that advantage proudly in your career search – employers will take notice.”

Currently managing director of NFL – Canada, Quinn has travelled Ontario establishing multiple sports clubs for physically disabled children and adults; established the Canadian Sport Awards program to recognize the accomplishments of Canada’s leading amateur athletes; raised funds to support amateur sports in Canada; and restructured the broadcast landscape to bring more National Football League football to Canadian fans.

His address included advice for graduates on dreaming big, adding values to the lives of others and how to be successful.

Addressing the crowd he said “the most important thing that I learned here that I can share with you is that you don’t come to Durham College to learn to do something, you come to Durham College to learn to be somebody.”

The annual ceremony has brought the college’s total number of alumni to close to 56,000 strong.

“In a few short minutes, you will walk out that door and you will join me as a graduate of the greatest college in this country, “ added Quinn. “ Congratulations.  This is your time!”