Durham College honours past president with naming of the Don Lovisa Building at its Whitby campus

Durham College (DC) celebrated the renaming of its Whitby campus main building to the Don Lovisa Building, in honour of its past president’s transformative leadership and impact on the college.

The renaming was announced during Lovisa’s retirement celebration in February, making it the third space in DC’s history to be named after a former president.

“I am profoundly grateful and deeply moved by the college’s decision to name the Whitby campus main building in my honour,” shared Lovisa. “It is a testament not only to my dedication and success but also the collective efforts of all those who have supported me throughout my tenure. It is my wish that those who have contributed to this moment will remember the excellent work we did together and take pride in their success as well.”

During Lovisa’s 16-year presidency, he oversaw millions of dollars in capital investments to drive growth of the college while maintaining a strong focus on employment skills for in-demand jobs.

“I had the privilege of working alongside Don for eight years, and during that time, I witnessed first-hand the type of bold leader Don was. His approach was grounded in a desire for relentless innovation in programming, operations and campus experience for our students, employees and visitors,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of Durham College. “We are proud to honour his accomplishments with the naming of the Don Lovisa Building.”

Dr. Gail Johnson Morris, Chair of DC’s Board of Governors, says the Don Lovisa Building serves as a symbolic gesture of appreciation for Lovisa’s dedication to advancing education while prioritizing community connections.

“Don’s leadership was instrumental in growing Durham College’s impact and established it as a beacon of generative innovation,” she said. “His dedication and vision inspired countless students, faculty, staff and stakeholders, both here at the college and in our surrounding communities.”