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Durham College students recognized with national chemistry awards

Durham College (DC) is celebrating the achievements of nine students from the Faculty of Science and Engineering who have been recognized by the Canadian Institute for Chemistry (CIC) Toronto Chapter for their academic excellence, perseverance and commitment to the chemical sciences.

The students received CIC Silver Medals and Book Awards during the 2026 Student Awards Ceremony. The awards recognize outstanding achievement among students enrolled in chemistry-related programs across Ontario.

The CIC Silver Medal is awarded to the student with the highest cumulative grade point average entering their final year of study. The honour recognizes sustained academic excellence, strong technical knowledge and practical skills, and dedication to the field of chemistry.

This year’s Silver Medal recipients from DC are:

The CIC Book Award recognizes the most improved student entering their final year and celebrates perseverance, growth, and commitment to learning.

DC’s 2026 Book Award recipients are:

“These awards recognize not only academic achievement, but also the determination, growth and passion our students bring to their studies every day,” said Kara Woods, Associate Dean, Faculty of Science and Engineering. “We are proud to see their accomplishments recognized by the Canadian Institute for Chemistry and grateful for the opportunities these industry connections create for our students as they prepare for careers in science and technology.”

The Canadian Institute for Chemistry represents thousands of professional chemists, chemical engineers and technologists across Canada. Recognition through the CIC awards highlights the high standard of learning and student achievement within Durham College’s science and engineering programs.

By fostering strong connections with industry organizations and supporting student success, DC continues to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to contribute to Canada’s science and technology sectors.

DC congratulates all award recipients on this honour and wishes them continued success as they complete their studies and pursue rewarding careers in science and industry.

Science students recognized by the Chemical Institute of Canada

Durham College students (DC) in the Biotechnology – Advanced and Chemical Engineering Technology programs have been celebrated by the Chemical Institute of Canada (CIC) for their academic excellence and dedication.

Each year, the CIC – a prominent Canadian organization committed to the advancement of chemical sciences – honours top graduates from chemistry-related programs across the country. This year, four DC students were recognized, cementing our reputation for preparing the next generation of biotechnology professionals to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving workforce.

Mauricio Escalante and Haneen Awadallah received the prestigious Silver Medal Award, presented to the graduating student with the highest cumulative GPA in their program.

“Mauricio’s consistent academic excellence and commitment to learning distinguished him throughout his time at DC,” said Christine Hand, Biotechnology – Advanced Program Coordinator.

“Haneen’s dedication to her studies was evident from the moment she entered the classroom in her first year. Her drive to excel propelled her to achieve the highest GPA as she approached her graduating year, and this will serve her well as she transitions to the industry after graduating with honors this spring,” noted Laura Benninger, Program Coordinator of the Chemical Engineering Technology program.

The Book Award, which honours the most improved graduating student, was awarded to Alexander Rinella and Naji Bennett.

“Alexander’s significant growth and perseverance stood out to faculty and reflected his strong dedication to personal and academic development,” said Hand.

“Naji consistently challenged himself during his time at Durham College, and his desire for continuous improvement was recognized by the faculty. These traits will be essential for his future as a chemical engineer,” said Benninger.

The students received cash prizes and were recognized at a special awards ceremony hosted by the Toronto Chapter of the CIC, alongside other top graduates from the Greater Toronto Area.

“These awards mark a proud moment for the Durham College community,” said Hand. “We congratulate the students and look forward to seeing the impact they’ll make as they embark on their careers in science and innovation.”

At DC, students get experiential learning opportunities in cutting-edge laboratories with industry-grade equipment. To follow in their footsteps, learn more about the Biotechnology – Advanced and Chemical Engineering Technology programs today.

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).