Representatives from businesses, government institutions and non-profit organizations across Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area gathered at the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food on April 3 for Durham College’s (DC) annual Placement Host Appreciation Evening.

Organized by students in DC’s Event Management (graduate certificate) program, the event was held to recognize the invaluable contribution placement and practicum hosts make to experiential learning when they open their doors to DC students. In fact, more than 600 organizations serve as hosts to more than 5,000 students each year.

Guests heard from Elizabeth Corner, director, Medical and Academic Affairs at Lakeridge Health, and Bob Verwey owner, Owasco Automotive Group, about their experiences hosting DC students.

Jennifer Jones, a third-year student enrolled in the college’s Human Resources – Business Administration program also spoke about her placement at the Durham Children’s Aid Society.