Science students recognized by the Chemical Institute of Canada Posted on June 5, 2025 at 3:27 pm. 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. Interior Decorating, Immigration Case Management among four new programs launched by Durham College Posted on October 25, 2024 at 11:23 am. Four new programs are launching at Durham College (DC) in fall 2025 to meet industry and community needs and ensure graduates are career-ready and in-demand. Applications are now open for the Electric Drive Vehicle Technician diploma program, Environmental Technician diploma program, Immigration Case Management graduate certificate and Interior Decorating diploma program. “At Durham College, our role is to ensure that we are preparing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to fill evolving and in-demand careers,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Consulting with industry professionals and leaders is an important part of our rigorous program development process so we’re confident these new programs align with the expertise employers are seeking.” Demand in the immigration field, for example, has increased in recent years as Canada has welcomed millions of newcomers. DC is meeting the demand for legal support skills in the highly specialized area of immigration, refugee and citizenship law by launching the Immigration Case Management program – one of only two available at a public college in Canada. “Law firms are craving legal assistance,” said Ana Bernal, program coordinator for Immigration Case Management. “Immigration law firms, community centre and centres for that help newcomers are looking for people with specialized knowledge because employers are finding it difficult to train new employees in this complex field.” Explore all the new programs at DC: Electric Drive Vehicle Technician (EDVT) – This four-semester diploma program is one of only two in Ontario and meets the demand for technicians to service electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s focused on both traditional mechanical expertise and specialized EV knowledge with students training at DC’s state-of-the-art Vanhaverbeke Family EV Training Centre. Environmental Technician (EVTN) – Through this four-semester diploma program, students will train to play a key role in helping conserve Canada’s ecosystem and protecting the health of communities from environmental contaminants. They will learn to evaluate, monitor and control potential risks to the environment and public health and assist in environmental protection and sustainability efforts. Immigration Case Management (IMCM) – This two-semester graduate certificate empowers students with specialized knowledge and skills required to support people engaged in the immigration, refugee and citizenship process. Students acquire specialized legal skills aimed at supporting law practitioners, government agencies and community centres with immigration-related case load. Interior Decorating (INDR) – Students in this four-semester diploma program will explore the design process, space planning and decoration of both residential and commercial environments. They will learn to work with clients and tackle creative challenges to enhance quality of life through the curation of functional, accessible and beautiful environments. Connect with our Start at DC team today to explore these new programs and all of DC’s 145+ career-ready programs.
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