After over 15 years of Leading the Way, Durham College President Don Lovisa Announces Plan to Step Down by March 2024

For over 15 years, President Don Lovisa has been at the helm of Durham College. Today he announced to employees at a Town Hall meeting, that he will not renew his contract after March 2024.

Under Lovisa’s leadership, Durham College (DC) has thrived, evidenced by an impressive track record of success focused on students, employees and the community.

“As a leader, Don embodies Durham College’s mission: Together, we’re leading the way,” said Gary Rose, Chair of the Board of Governors. “His vision for the college has truly come to life through his innovative, forward-looking and collaborative approach. DC has grown exponentially throughout his tenure. He has not only met challenges with tenacity but welcomed opportunities that have positioned DC as a leader in post-secondary education and an invaluable asset in the community.”

Since Lovisa’s presidency began in 2008, DC has experienced significant enrolment growth, supported by the introduction of a number of new leading-edge programs driven by community and industry needs, including five new honours bachelor’s degrees.

On campus, Lovisa spearheaded over $300 million in capital investment projects focused on expansion and modernization of DC’s working and learning spaces, including the Student Services Building, Centre for Collaborative Education, Energy and Innovation Centre and the expansion of the Whitby Campus, including the Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food and the Centre for Organic Regeneration. Most recently, the Centre for Innovation and Research opened, which houses four of DC’s six applied research centres, all of which have opened during Lovisa’s time as president.

DC’s collaborative, innovative and hard-working culture is a testament to Lovisa’s energy, passion and priorities. It has led to recognition as one of the Greater Toronto Top Employers, Greenest Employer and one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges, securing DC’s reputation locally, nationally and internationally as a college of choice, a community partner and a leader.

Lovisa is a lifelong advocate for education, lending his voice and experience to several areas, including improved training in skilled trades and equity in international education. In addition, he has been Chair of Colleges Ontario and a member of the CICan Board of Directors, furthering DC’s presence in the education sector.

“It has been an honour and a pleasure to serve as president of Durham College and work alongside our talented leadership team, employees, the Board of Governors and industry and community partners. Being part of an organization that makes such positive and significant changes that impact our students and our community has been the highlight of my career,” said Lovisa. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to watching DC continue to lead the way in the future.”