Durham College celebrates largest fall graduating cohort in school’s history

More than 2,200 graduates were invited to cross the stage this week at Durham College’s (DC) Fall Convocation, making it the largest fall graduating cohort in DC’s history. Skilled, career-ready graduates, ready to thrive in in-demand industries received their credential, including:

    “Convocation is an incredible event that serves as a time to celebrate our graduates’ achievements and the commencement of their next chapter,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “Whether they’re choosing to continue their studies, enter the workforce, or start their own business, the education they received is transformative and positively impacts their lives, their families, and our community.”

    Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

    • Adam Ruppel, 2024 Alumni of Distinction award recipient, President of Chico Racing, and Co-founder of Drive Festival
    • Rachael Wraith, DC Alumna, Associate Vice President of Strategic Communications at Global Public Affairs

    During the afternoon ceremony on October 29, the college also recognized Don Lovisa, past DC President, with the honorary designation of President Emeritus in recognition of his many years of outstanding service to DC students, employees, and the community.

    For more information about Fall Convocation, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/convocation.


    DC engineering grads can leverage their learning with new Queen’s University Diploma-to-Degree Pathway

    Durham College’s (DC) engineering technology graduates can get a head start on their degree thanks to a new pathway agreement with Queen’s University.

    Students who graduate from DC with one of our advanced diplomas in Engineering Technology can now transfer into an upper year of the civil, mining, mechanical, or chemical degree programs offered by Smith Engineering at Queen’s.

    “We are thrilled about the strong partnership between DC and Queen’s University. This is a testament to our commitment to providing students with the best possible educational experience,” said Kara Woods, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology. “By integrating practical learning from DC with the rigorous academic framework at Queen’s, we are empowering students to transition smoothly from diploma to degree.”

    One such student is Mitch Connelly, a 2021 graduate of DC’s Civil Engineering Technology program who is part of the pathway’s inaugural cohort that began their studies in September. After years of working in the engineering field, he decided to return to school to upgrade his skills, and his timing was perfect.

    “It’s a lot cheaper than doing a full undergraduate degree straight from high school, and college is also more practical. I think employers recognize that,” he said of the pathway. “It’s better to go this route. You get a better education and more connections.”

    Mitch’s post-DC success and his pursuit of a degree at Queen’s serve as an example to today’s students, according to Civil Engineering Technology program coordinator Myla Minelli.

    “Mitch exemplifies the dedication, hard work, and determination that we strive to instill in all our students,” she said.

    More DC students are set to take advantage of the new pathway, with seven beginning the required online preparatory courses this fall before attending a full semester of foundational classes next summer. They will then enter their respective programs at Queen’s in September of 2025.

    The Smith Engineering Bridge pathway is funded by the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT).