Durham College celebrates donors investing in student success

Durham College’s (DC) community partners and donors make a tremendous difference in students’ lives by helping DC to continue to develop modern learning spaces, offer dynamic hands-on experiences and remove barriers to access through bursaries and scholarships.

On April 18, DC President Dr. Elaine Popp thanked the college’s partners at the annual President’s Breakfast where attendees had the opportunity to see some of the talent and creativity on campus through a student showcase.

“Your generosity allows students to learn, grow and thrive at DC as they gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a rapidly changing world,” Dr. Popp told attendees. “Your support affirms our work and validates our reputation as a leader in post-secondary education and we are proud to align with your vision and goals for the future of our community.”

Donor support means students get hands on-training in cutting-edge spaces like the recently opened Vahaverbeke Family EV Training Centre, the Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, and The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture, a hub of excellence in urban agriculture, research and teaching.

Linda Flynn, Associate Vice-President, Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, works closely with DC’s donor community and she expressed her appreciation.

“The President’s Breakfast is an opportunity for us to celebrate you, our donors, and to express our deep gratitude for your continued commitment to Durham College and our students,” said Flynn. “Your contributions have a significant impact on our students’ lives through the opportunities they are able to access, experiences they participate in and ultimately the lives they are able to lead.”

DCSA Chairwoman and CEO Megan Bent highlighted the importance of support for student awards including scholarships and bursaries.

“These awards are more than just financial support; they are opportunities for students to pursue their dreams and aspirations without the burden of financial constraints,” she said. “By you investing in our programs, you are investing in the future of our society.”

DC Paralegal Program graduate Drew Samuels is a donor as well as the Vice President of the college’s Alumni Association and a part-time faculty member. Samuels explained that he wanted to direct his time, donations and efforts towards supporting the best student experience possible.

“I want all students, domestic and international, to have the most fulfilling and enriching experience during their studies,” he said. “I hope my contributions become infectious for the next group of students who will then become alumni who will then become active donors.”

Find out more about why giving matters at DC and our donors who support student excellence.