As part of Durham College’s commitment to provide financial aid to students in need, the college hosted a donor reception at the Oshawa campus’s Student Services building on March 26.

Student recipients were able to meet their donors face-to-face and thank them for their assistance during their college journey. In the 2012-2013 academic year, more than $1.6 million was donated to Durham College-endowed bursaries which allows students to pay for essential items like laptops, textbooks and school supplies or for daily expenses like food or clothing.

Durham College President Don Lovisa spoke at the event and emphasized the importance of college donors and what these awards mean to the students.

“Long-term investments in our students by our endowment fund donors, are what helps lead to quality employment and stronger neighbourhoods across Durham Region, Ontario and Canada,” said Lovisa. 

An example of this type of partnership is the contributions of Ontario Power Generation (OPG). In 2010, OPG partnered with the college and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) for a five-year agreement. As part of the OPG agreement, Durham College will receive $2.95 million for capital improvements, education programs, equipment, training, scholarships and bursaries. 

Students interested in applying for a donor award can do so through MyCampus. For more information on the Durham College Awards program and a listing of awards, please visit the Donor Awards page.