Durham College president receives prestigious award

Durham College (DC) president Don Lovisa has been recognized by the Ontario College Administrative Staff Association (OCASA) for his tremendous contributions to college education in the province.

Today, Lovisa was presented with the Doug Light Career Achievement Award, which is given to administrators in the Ontario college system who have significantly influenced college education throughout their careers and have helped shape colleges on a regional, provincial or national level.

As DC’s longtime president, Durham College has thrived under his leadership with the addition of state-of-the-art learning facilities like the OPG Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, Centre for Collaborative Education, Centre for Innovation and Research and PROTO and Electric Vehicle Lab.

But his commitment to improving post-secondary education extends beyond bricks and mortar. He has prioritized collaboration, hosting numerous sessions where employees from all areas of campus have come together to consider new approaches and new possibilities. By encouraging DC to collaborate and innovate, he has prepared the community to respond to new challenges, envision new projects and reimagine the future of post-secondary education.

He has advocated for the college system by championing funding reform; the recognition of college degrees as a critical part of the post-secondary credential framework in Ontario; and highlighting the wide gap in government funding for college students versus the university system. He also completed a two-year term as president of Colleges Ontario and has served on the Board of Colleges and Institutes Canada.

“Outstanding performance, as recognized by this award, goes beyond job expectations. It is about team involvement, achievements that exceed the norm, and recognition by our peers,” said Lovisa as he accepted the award. “I am grateful to have had the privilege of working with exceptional teams throughout my career – the collective efforts of the many colleagues, students, and community partners who have been integral to my journey – dedicated individuals who share a passion for education and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.”

After 38 years in the college system and 16 years of leading the way at DC, there’s no doubt that his impact will be a lasting one.

“Let us continue to strive for excellence, foster innovation, and inspire future generations to shape the future of postsecondary education.”