With more than 73,000 graduates and countless community and business supporters, Durham College (DC) makes it a priority to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the college and well beyond.  With that in mind, the college announced today that nominations for its 2016 Alumni of Distinction Awards and 2016 Honorary Credential recipient are now open.

“One of the best ways we can inspire students and employees at DC is to shine a light on the many DC community members who are succeeding in their careers, giving back to their communities and paving the way for future generations,” said Don Lovisa, president of Durham College. “We want to recognize their success and thank them for their contributions — the Alumni of Distinction Awards and Honorary Credential allow us to do just that.”

The Alumni of Distinction Awards honour the significant contributions DC graduates make to society while achieving career success. The Honorary Credential recognizes a community or business partner who has made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of DC, Durham Region and well beyond. Both are given at the college’s annual spring convocation ceremonies in June.

A wide range of professionals have received the Alumni of Distinction Award including entrepreneurs, health-care leaders, journalists, multimedia designers, engineers, technicians and skilled trades professionals. Nominations are now being accepted until Friday, March 11 through the DC Alumni office.

“I’ve made it a personal priority to reconnect with as many alumni as possible this past year and their stories of both personal and professional success have been incredible.” said Lovisa. “There are so many who deserve to be nominated for an Alumni of Distinction Award and I hope to see that reflected in the number of nominations we receive this year.”

Nominations for the Honorary Credential are made by DC employees with members of the public invited to submit possible nominations to Paul Bishop, executive director and registrar, Strategic Enrolment Services, DC, at paul.bishop@durhamcollege.ca by Tuesday, March 15.

“DC is lucky to have so many passionate supporters and we take immense pride in the way our graduates and community partners continue to help us build a strong college that is committed to student success,” added Lovisa. “We look forward to recognizing these individuals in June.”