Durham College (DC) is proud to announce the appointment of Allison Hector-Alexander, director, Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion and Transitions (OSDIT), to the City of Oshawa’s first-ever Community Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) committee.

As a member of the 15-person committee, Allison will contribute to the development of a community-driven model for supporting the implementation of the City’s Diversity and Inclusion Plan. She will work alongside City staff to eliminate barriers within City programs, services and policies and support the creation of new programs or initiatives related to enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the community.

The Committee is also expected to liaise and work with the City’s Oshawa Accessibility Committee and Cultural Leadership Council.

As a DEI specialist with a social work background, operating from an anti-oppressive/anti-racist framework, Allison brings a wide breadth of experience and deep expertise gained through her work with youth at risk, street-involved youth, Ontario Works recipients, new immigrants, women survivors of abuse, faculty and students.

Allison’s appointment to the City’s committee speaks to her recognition across Durham Region as a leader in DEI education and action; she has been honoured by numerous organizations for her work and leadership, including her receipt of the 2019 Madiba Award, which recognizes a community leader of African ancestry in Durham Region who embodies Nelson Mandela’s values, vision and commitment to overcoming barriers.