More than 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students are set to attend Durham College (DC) and on-campus events, efforts and initiatives have already kicked off to welcome the college community.

Ringing in the new year

Orientation activities are underway for new DC students! There are a number of planned events, ways to get involved, helpful program information and services that provide opportunities to connect with other DC students and the campus community.

Employees kicked off the academic year with an annual event to generate excitement and set the stage for the year ahead. Keynote speaker Justin Reilly, CEO of Wavelo, shared his unique perspectives on integrating AI programs and machine learning technologies in our work and inspired faculty as they continue to lead the way in innovative teaching.

Creative campus spaces

There are some exciting updates to campus spaces. DC’s new PROTO and Electric Vehicle (EV) Lab officially opened this week and our brand new vertical hydroponic farm was just delivered with preparations underway for its use at the Barrett Centre Urban Farm in Ajax.

At the Oshawa campus, the Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR) opened and we revitalized the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard and other outdoor spaces. The L Wing got a major refresh with 18 new murals, designed and installed by DC Fine Arts students as a work-study project.

Responsive programs to meet industry needs

Over the last year, DC has enhanced program offerings to meet the industry and community needs and ensure graduates are career-ready and in-demand.

New programs this year include:

• Cloud Computing (graduate certificate)
• Early Childhood Education – Childcare Worker Stream (diploma)
• Fire Prevention and Technology (advanced diploma)
• Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health (degree)
• Honours Bachelor of Paralegal (degree)
• Recreation Therapy (diploma)

DC’s Professional and Part-time Learning also launched two new initiatives this year – Internationally Educated Nurses and Personal Support Worker (PSW) to Practical Nurse (PN) Bridge – to increase the number of qualified nursing professionals in the province.

Promoting health and wellness

To support health and wellness of our community, we launched the Wellness Directory, an online hub that provides direct access to all of the wellness supports and resources at DC and on-campus accessibility supports ensure a sense of inclusivity and belonging for all.

Students and employees have access to free fitness classes at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre. And tryouts are underway for Durham Lords varsity sports teams. Check out the full schedule. And you can come cheer on our athletes at the annual Campus Cup!

With the majority of classes set to begin on September 6, DC is looking forward to an exciting year ahead!