Current News

Visit the Durham College News and Media webpage for the current developments.

Join us this weekend as DC hosts the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​Durham College (DC) is proud to host the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 at our Oshawa campus.

More than 30 high school teams from across Ontario will compete with industrial-sized, 120 lb robots they have designed, built and programmed. Teams will put their creations to the test in an action-packed game played on a themed field as part of this year's REBUILT™ competition.

With guidance from engineering mentors and industry professionals, students apply their knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a competitive setting. Along the way, they build collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the competition floor.

DC is excited to support an event that inspires young innovators to explore future pathways in STEM and the skilled trades. Hosting this competition reflects our commitment to applied learning and preparing students for in-demand, rewarding careers.

The event is free and open to the public.

When

Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sunday, March 15 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Where

Oshawa campus, Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, Gyms 3, 4 and 5

Parking

Free parking available in Founders Lot 2

CTL Compass - Express ❄️ March 2026 - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​​This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca. 

The CTL Compass Express is a digital newsletter, shared exclusively on ICE, from the Centre for Teaching & Learning​. Similar to the CTL Compass, the Express is tailored for DC faculty members and academic staff but is delivered as a just-in-time resource throughout the academic year!

Students in the lab with a faculty member examining a skeleton of an animal.​

2024_CTL_CompassFull_FC500.png

Winter Semester ❄️ March 2026

In this issue

ICE HIGHLIGHTS

Coursedog Login Update

ALL ABOUT TEACHING & LEARNING

Calling all FT Faculty Members 📣 Registration is Open for Fall CTC!

The AI Files / Word Power: Talk, Type, TrAInsform! Part 1 - Dictate

WHAT'S NEW?

Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ Feedback

UPCOMING CTL-HOSTED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS

Still haven’t hoped on the AI train? Here is an opportunity to get onboard!

Creating a Faculty Introduction Video with Adobe Express Templates​

DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements​

External Professional Development Opportunities

💻 All about Teaching & Learning

Calling all FT Faculty Members 📣 Registration is Open for Fall CTC!

Registration is now open for full-time faculty members wishing to take the fourth course in the College Teaching Certificate: EDUC 1103: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning.

EDUC 1103: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning​

When: Fridays, during the Fall Semester

Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Delivery mode: In Person + 1 hour asynchronous weekly

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning - EDUC1103

Explore how identity, bias, positionality, systemic structures, and belonging shape learning experiences, while weaving inclusive, trauma-informed, and relational practices into your teaching. Critically examine current issues in equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB), and consider their impact on teaching, learning, and assessment. Deepen your understanding of how learner supports, and assessment strategies can enhance success for students with accommodations. This journey invites you to reflect on your own biases, position, and teaching practices, reframe your role in creating safer spaces, and braid together inclusive pedagogies that honour all learners. Rooted in wholistic approaches and guided by the principles of reciprocity, relationships, respect, and responsibility, discover how to cultivate learning environments where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Interested? Register now.

❗️ If you wish to register, please speak with your AD/ED for approval.

The AI Files - S2 E3 - Word Power: Talk, Type, TrAInsform! Part 1 - Dictate

Join Corey Gill as he explores how Microsoft Word’s applied AI tools can transform the way you create, capture, and refine your ideas. In this episode, we dive into two features that can boost your productivity and support accessibility in your workflow: Dictate and Transcribe. Discover how to turn your voice into polished text, how to upload audio for instant transcription, and how these tools can streamline lesson planning, documentation, note‑taking, or student support. With Word’s AI‑powered capabilities, you can work faster, reduce friction, and bring more clarity and efficiency to your everyday tasks; all while keeping your workflow simple and accessible for everyone. Part 1 of this episode focuses on the Dictate feature:

📌 Check back next month for Part 2 of this episode on the Transcribe feature!

🆕 What's New

Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ Feedback

Thank you for joining Winter Academic PD Day on March 5th. The 2026-2030 Academic Plan was launched by Dr. Jean Choi and we engaged in a workshop about building an inclusive classroom community.

💡 If you joined us during Winter Academic PD Day we would love to hear your thoughts about the day. Please complete the feedback survey with your thoughts.

🎓 Upcoming CTL-Hosted Professional Development Sessions

Still haven’t hop​ped on the AI train? Here is an opportunity to get onboard!

March 19, 9 to 10 a.m.

Microsoft Teams

Braiding Knowledge Ring: Creating Connection

Discover how Microsoft Copilot can make your daily work easier, faster, and more creative; no prior AI experience required. This introductory session walks educators through what AI is, how Copilot works across Microsoft 365, and where to access it in the tools you already use. Learn how to offload routine tasks, improve productivity, and build durable AI skills that support your teaching. We’ll also explore helpful Copilot features like chat history, renaming conversations, and creating personalized agents when you’re ready for more.

Whether you’re curious, cautious, or simply busy, this 50 minute hands-on introduction will give you the foundation you need to confidently begin using AI in your day to day work.

Creating a Faculty Introduction Video with Adobe Express Templates

March 24, 10 to 11 a.m.

Microsoft Teams

Braiding Knowledge Rings: Creating Connection and Fostering Inclusivity

Come learn how to use Adobe Express templates to make an introduction video for your classes. We will explore template options, customize visuals and messaging, and learn simple techniques for recording voice narration and webcam video to help students connect with them from day one.

DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements

March 20, 10 to 11 a.m.

Microsoft Teams

Braiding Knowledge Rings: Creating Connection and Fostering Inclusivity

Have you used our DC Connect template but never explored using the existing interactive elements to better organize your content? When using the interactive elements, have you wished there was a way to customize them without knowing html code? Then please join us for a workshop focusing on how incorporate these interactive elements into your content; and how to use an Interactive Quiz Tool that can be added directly to your content pages as formative assessment.

Note: The content explored in this session extends naturally from Using DC Connect Templates and Using DC Connect Templates Drop-In sessions. It is strongly recommended that learners attend either of those sessions prior to registering for this session!

External Professional Development Sessions

Portfolios with Purpose

April 16, 1 to 2 p.m.

Zoom

Julie Sullivan, B.Admin, CTDP, FCIP (Senior Learning Technology Facilitator, Part-time Professor, Loyalist College)

Braiding Knowledge Rings: Knowledge Creation and Authentic Experiences

This webinar explores the power of portfolios in higher education—for both students and faculty. We will examine strategies for embedding portfolio development into course curriculum to support reflection, skills articulation, and career readiness. Next we will explore how faculty can curate a compelling teaching portfolio that showcases their philosophy, practice, and impact. Leave with practical frameworks, examples, and implementation tips to begin building or refining portfolios with purpose.

Note: for those taking the Braiding Knowledge Micro-credential, this session can be included as PD within one of the rings in the Braiding Learning framework, we suggest Knowledge Creation and Authentic Experiences, but if you feel it fits better in a different ring, please use your reflection to let us know why. This would count as an Indigenous workshop for that ring. You will have to provide confirmation of your attendance. Not in the micro-credential? Learn more by visiting: Faculty Micro-Credential Programs - CTL.

Interested? No registration required.

https://algonquincollege.zoom.us/j/93685489161?pwd=F2JAtdI5qAhszIhsE4w3zeEybzv0v6.1

Meeting ID: 936 8548 9161

Password: 897463

Our Journey of Reconciliation in Academia

April 16, 1 to 2 p.m.

Zoom

Leigh Simpson-Ahwanaquot (Seneca, Manager, Reconciliation and Indigenous Services); Megan Ewing (Seneca, Manager, Academic Program Development, Program Quality)

Braiding Knowledge Rings: Reflective Practice and Mindful Curriculum

Leigh and Megan will share stories about the work they did together on the integration of Reconciliation Learning Outcomes with a recent new program development.

Note: for those taking the Braiding Knowledge Micro-credential, this session can be included as PD within one of the rings in the Braiding Learning framework, we suggest Reflective Practice and Mindful Curriculum, but if you feel it fits better in a different ring, please use your reflection to let us know why. This would count as an Indigenous workshop for that ring. You will have to provide confirmation of your attendance. Not in the micro-credential? Learn more by visiting: Faculty Micro-Credential Programs - CTL.

Interested? No registration required.

https://algonquincollege.zoom.us/j/94885018053?pwd=auib6GRFBI3EeXbZaNziOdHis5VAWa.1

Meeting ID: 948 8501 8053

Password: 230180

📌 Looking for more personalized support? We’re here to help!

We encourage you to book a meeting with a member of our team through Microsoft Bookings.

📣 Stay tuned for the April issue of the CTL Compass next month!

​

Lunch-hour Wellness Session March 23: Learn a structured doodling process that's good for your health (and strengthens emotional intelligence) - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​Sent on behalf of Human Resources

Join an upcoming wellness session -

LINES THAT SOOTHE: A STRUCTURED DOODLING PROCESS THAT'S GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

Bring your lunch and join us for a virtual art session that explores how neurographic art, also known as 'structured doodling', can be used for relaxation, mindfulness, focus, and emotional processing. This session will teach you a process that can be replicated on your own, with family members, students, or teams, as an emotional regulation strategy (a core aspect of emotional intelligence).

​Using free‑flowing lines, rounded shapes, and mindful colouring, we will engage in a simple drawing technique designed to help regulate the nervous system and support emotional wellbeing.

You will receive guided instruction to start, followed by time to work independently while enjoying a shared creative space with colleagues. No artistic experience is needed—just a willingness to experiment and unwind.

​As this is a virtual workshop, you will need to have your own materials on hand. At minimum, please have a pen and blank paper. For more defined lines and added colour, a black marker or gel pen, along with markers or pencil crayons, are recommended.

Monday, March 23rd, from 12 – 1 p.m.

Facilitator: Leigh-Ann Harper

Location: Virtual

Click here to register​

Notice of Service Disruption - Galleria Tim Horton's - Announcements, March 17, 2026

Please be advised that the Galleria Tim Horton's will need to close at 12pm on Friday, March 13, 2026.  We apologize for any incovenience.  Please note that all other Tim Horton's locations will not be affected by this disruption and will maintain their regular hours.

Dine On Campus at Durham Ontario Tech

Upcoming opportunities to connect and stay informed - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

​As I have shared, a key priority for me is ensuring we maintain open, consistent communication across the college so that our teams have the information they need to feel supported, informed, and connected to the work ahead.  Creating meaningful ways to share updates, listen to your perspectives, and engage in dialogue is an important part of that commitment.

To support this, I invite you to take part in three upcoming opportunities to connect and stay informed. While each serves a different purpose, all are designed to support transparency, strengthen understanding of our priorities, and acknowledge our colleagues' contributions.

Town Halls

In my recent financial and operational update, I referenced upcoming Town Halls. These sessions are designed to help employees stay informed. Members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) will share updates to foster transparency and answer questions you may have about our current and future state.

You're invited to submit a question in advance to be addressed during the session. There will also be time for a live Q&A, allowing you to engage directly during the Town Halls.

Monday, April 13

2 to 3 p.m.

CIR 102, Centre for Research and Innovation

Oshawa Campus

​Friday, April 17

1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Lecture Hall B101, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food

Whitby Campus

Register now for a Town Hall

Coffee Chats

These informal, small-group chats give employees a forum to share their ideas, ask questions, or simply engage in meaningful dialogue. Space is limited to allow for more personal conversation. If I don't often get the chance to hear from you, I especially encourage you to join.

​Wednesday, April 29

2 to 3 p.m.

G213, Gordon Willey Building

Oshawa Campus

​Thursday, April 30

11 a.m. to noon

Room 123, Admin Boardroom, Don Lovisa Building

Whitby Campus

Register now for a Coffee Chat

Lean into Green: DC Update and Employee Celebration

One of our annual signature events, where we come together as a DC community to be inspired and celebrate. On Wednesday, May 20, members of the leadership team will share highlights of the past year, and together we will recognize employees receiving their full-time service milestones, celebrate the winners of the Employee and Team Awards of Excellence, and enjoy a BBQ lunch. More details and a registration Evite will follow in the coming weeks.

I look forward to seeing you at these events and to focusing our continued, collective efforts on supporting one another and our students' success.

Notice of Service Disruption – Fire hydrant replacement in Oshawa, March 14 - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems, Facilities Management.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Hydrant Replacement

Facilities will be replacing a hydrant in the bus loop at the Oshawa campus. See attached photo. The bus loop will not be impacted, and the work area will be fenced off.

When: Saturday March 14, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Impact: Contractors will be working in the noted location in yellow, including excavation. Pedestrians are asked to use caution around the work area.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

Update on DC’s Military-Connected College Initiative - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is being sent on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education.

In December 2025, Durham College (DC) launched the Military-Connected College (MCC) initiative to better engage and assist learners whose lives have been shaped by military service. These individuals bring valuable leadership, experience, and perspective to our classrooms, enriching the DC community. The focus of the MCC initiative is to strengthen pathways from service to study to employment, while ensuring military-connected learners feel welcomed, supported, and recognized at DC.

Over the last three months, the initiative has evolved from concept into an active, coordinated effort across the college. The cross-functional steering committee is aligning enrolment, academic, and student support teams to reduce barriers for military-connected learners throughout their journey. This includes recruitment, admissions, credit recognition, campus belonging, and program progression.

Some key initiatives the committee is focused on are outlined below.

Upcoming workshops for all employees

To provide employees with a deeper understanding of the initiative and how this can influence their work, two workshop sessions are planned for April. A foundational Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) 101 session will be offered online, and an interactive CAF 102 session will be delivered in person to foster organic discussion and information sharing. These sessions are important for building a shared understanding across the college and better equip employees to support the unique experiences and transitions that many military-connected learners navigate.

Additional details on these sessions and how to register will be shared later this week.

Agreements, pathways and student support

Work is underway to establish several external agreements that strengthen access, referral pathways, and student support. The focus is on ensuring these partnerships move beyond statements of intent and translate into clear, consistent processes for credit recognition and timely learner support. These elements are essential for adult learners and those with prior military service.​

Enhancing student experience and community

Initial steps are also underway to establish a student club for military-connected learners. The focus is on building a sustainable community with continuity and succession planning, ensuring it can grow beyond any single champion. Peer-to-peer connections grounded in shared experience are an important support for learners navigating service transitions, family responsibilities, and academic life.

We look forward to providing further updates as work progresses. 

Last week to donate to the Dress for Success clothing drive - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

A new addition to the Career Launch event series, Dress for Success is an initiative designed to support students as they prepare for job interviews, co‑op placements, and professional opportunities. Many students face challenges accessing appropriate business attire, and your generosity can help students step into interview season with confidence

As we begin a new year, it's the perfect time to refresh and clean out your closet. If you have gently used, like-new business attire, we would greatly appreciate your donations. All items must be freshly laundered before donating.

Donations can be dropped off at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations March 16-20 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

We are seeking:

Dress pants

Dress shirts

Blouses

Blazers

Skirts

Dresses

Belts

Shoes

Cardigans

At the end of the drive, any items not selected by students will be donated to IGNITE Durham, ensuring that all contributions continue to support our community. Together, we can support both career readiness and sustainable fashion.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Spring Savings at Talize for Employees and Students  - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​From March 30 to April 30, 2026, Talize (Oshawa and Whitby locations) will be offering Durham College employees and students 30% off with a valid DC ID. Students also get 10% off every day, all year round.​

Commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. 

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on March 21. Commemoration of the day is guided by the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (which was in turn ratified by the UN General Assembly in 1965). Racial discrimination is the practice of treating people differently or unjustly because of their race, ethnic origin, skin colour, language, or religion. 

Why March 21? On that day in 1960, the Pan-Africa​n Congress launched an anti-pass campaign, protesting the 'pass laws' in apartheid South Africa. This was a staunchly non-violent protest – on the first day, over 4000 Black people marched unarmed to the police station in Sharpeville, without their passes. They planned to ask to be arrested in a courageous act of mass civil disobedience. The march ended in gunfire being opened against the peaceful protestors. 69 people were murdered and over 180 were injured.  

On this day, we remember the people of Sharpeville, and the millions of other people who take action in the ongoing, global fight for civil rights, human rights, dignity, and equity. The day reminds us of the importance of ongoing education and action against racial discrimination—and indeed, all forms of discrimination. You can do this by familiarizing yourself with DC's Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and Community Resources like Victim Services of Durham Region's new Hate Reporting Resource.  

Check out the Social Justice Collection at the Durham College/On Tech library as well as Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy to educate yourself about the history and ongoing manifestations of racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in Canada. Speak out against racism and discrimination when and where you encounter it and encourage anti-racism in all areas of your life, big and small. We keep each other safe! 

Celebrate St Patrick's Day with the Campus Store! - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Sale at the Campus Store! 🍀

The Campus Store is celebrating the colour green with pride  this St. Patrick’s Day!

On March 17, 2026, enjoy 20% OFF all DC-branded green merchandise and show your support for the college while celebrating the day in style. From hoodies to tees and accessories, it’s the perfect time to wear your green and support the college.

Visit us at both Campus Store locations on March 17 and join the celebration.

Stock up on your favourite green DC gear and don’t miss this one-day offer! 🍀

Notice of Service Disruption – Exterior maintenance, Oshawa Campus: March 15-30 - Announcements, March 17, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems.

Please be aware that exterior maintenance is taking place around the Gordon Willey building. Work will be completed using a man lift, and impacted areas will be blocked off with caution tape and safety signage.

Location:

Exterior of the Gordon Willey building – A-wing, B-wing, C-wing, D-wing, and L-wing.

When:

March 15 to 30

As work progresses around the building, some entrances may be temporarily restricted. Access will be reopened once the work in each area is completed.

Please see the impact details by location below, and in the attached graphic.

Location A: Maintenance on L-wing windows.

Location B: Maintenance on C-wing windows.

Location C: The area west of the Marketplace seating entrance doors will be closed.

Location D: The B-wing Marketplace stairwell will be closed.

Location E: The B-wing entrance to the pit, located behind the security desk, will be closed.

Location F: The Presidents Stairwell entrance will be closed.

Location G: Maintenance on A-wing windows.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

This Week in International Education - Second Program Application Event - Announcements, March 11, 2026

[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

We're excited to share that our second program event for current international students is happening on March 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in The PIT! This event is a wonderful opportunity for international students to connect, engage, and submit their applications free of charge! We're looking forward to another energetic and meaningful afternoon and are hopeful it will continue to strengthen students' sense of belonging within the Durham College community.

Durham College employees are warmly welcome to stop by, say hello, and join in the excitement if their schedules allow. For further information, please feel free to contact Mack Hunter at mack.hunter@durhamcollege.ca.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. ​

Support our students: Donate to the Dress for Success clothing drive - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

A new addition to the Career Launch event series, Dress for Success is an initiative designed to support students as they prepare for job interviews, co‑op placements, and professional opportunities. Many students face challenges accessing appropriate business attire, and your generosity can help students step into interview season with confidence

As we begin a new year, it's the perfect time to refresh and clean out your closet. If you have gently used, like-new business attire, we would greatly appreciate your donations. All items must be freshly laundered before donating.

We are seeking:

Dress pants

Dress shirts

Blouses

Blazers

Skirts

Dresses

Belts

Shoes

Cardigans

Donations can be dropped off at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, from March 9-13 and March 16-20 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

At the end of the drive, any items not selected by students will be donated to IGNITE Durham, ensuring that all contributions continue to support our community.

Together, we can support both career readiness and sustainable fashion.

Thank you in advance for your support!​

Yearend Message - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​The following message is being sent on behalf of Barbara MacCheyne, vice-president corporate services and chief financial officer.

To assist the finance department in properly recording revenue and expenditure transactions for this fiscal year and to ensure that we have an efficient closing of the books on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, please take note of the following deadlines and related procedures.

Procurement 

Purchase orders

To ensure that expenses for goods that are physically received or services incurred by Tuesday, March 31st are captured as a fiscal 2025-26 expenditure, the following guidelines must be followed:​

Any purchase requisitions required after Friday, February 27 for the 2025-26 fiscal year must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, VP of Corporate Services & CFO.  The expected delivery date of the goods must be indicated on the requisition to ensure that the PO is properly recorded in the correct fiscal year.  No purchase orders will be issued after Friday, March 6 for fiscal 2025-26.  Proper accounting procedures require that items purchased during the current fiscal year but received after March 31, 2026 be charged to the next fiscal year.  Thus, these purchases will be recorded as an expense when the goods and services are received in fiscal 2026-27.  

​ 

FAST users need to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report via the FAST Webreq module.  This process will assist staff in identifying their Outstanding Purchase Orders, invoices paid and remaining balance on those Orders. For instructions on how to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report, please refer to ICE:  My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions

 Please execute your report on Friday, February 20, 2026. If any of your outstanding Purchase Orders can be closed, please email Doris Tapp at doris.tapp@durhamcollege.ca no later than the end of business day Friday, February 27, 2026 and reference the Purchase Order number and reason for closing (ex. paid already, invoice already sent to AP, vendor no longer supplying goods).

NOTE: If submitting an invoice to Accounts Payable that is final payment, please indicate this on the invoice so that the Purchase Order can be closed out.

NOTE: If your order will be received after March 31, 2026, please email Donny Gough at donny.gough@durhamcollege.ca and inquire about how to issue an advance Purchase Order for fiscal 2026-27.  This is only permitted if budget exists for fiscal year 2026-27.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding purchase orders, please email Kevin Jones at  kevin.jones@durhamcollege.ca.

Accounting

Accounts payable – vendor invoices

To ensure that all expenses are booked against the correct fiscal period, please forward all properly approved and correctly coded invoices to Accounts Payable for processing as soon as possible and no later than Thursday, April 2.  Please indicate the purchase order number on the invoice where applicable to ensure purchase orders are closed out properly.  If an invoice has not been received but there is sufficient support to accrue an expense to the current fiscal year, please provide the supporting documentation by Thursday, April 2.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding payment of invoices, please contact accountsPayable@durhamcollege.ca.

Corporate MasterCard statements

To ensure the proper recording of purchases made on your corporate MasterCard, we ask that you complete your MasterCard Reconciliation in the FAST PCARD module by the 23rd of each month.  Copies of the reconciled statement, approved by the appropriate level, and attached with supporting receipts must be submitted by the following due dates:

February credit card reconciliations must be submitted to Accounts Payable by Monday, February 23, and

March credit card reconciliations must be submitted to Accounts Payable by Monday, March 23.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding corporate MasterCard expenditures, please email Gabriela Rantisi at gabriela.rantisi@durhamcollege.ca.

Expense reports

The expense report for reimbursement of expenses incurred to March 31, 2026 must be submitted to Accounts Payable –no later than Thursday, April 2 for processing.  All expense reports are submitted to reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca. Please ensure that all supporting receipts and travel/business forms are provided and that the expense report form (located on ICE; Forms: Finance; Expense Report) is properly approved and coded.  Claims for expenses incurred after March 31 must be reported on a separate expense form.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding expense report reimbursements, please email Gabriela Rantisi at:  reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca.

Travel advances

Please ensure all travel advances for travel completed by March 31 are reconciled and submitted to Accounts Payable, attention Gabriela Rantisi no later than Wednesday, April 1.

Petty cash reimbursements

Departments that have a petty cash float must forward the receipts and reconciliation to Allan MacDonald in the Student Services Building no later than the end of business on Wednesday, April 1.

Note that all floats must be replenished to their full authorized value for year-end.  Should you require a replenishment of a particular float or if you are closing out a float, email Allan MacDonald no later than Friday, March 6, 2026 to schedule a mutually agreed upon time to pick up/deliver.

Finally, float close-outs should be brought into the Student Services Building no later than 3:00pm on Wednesday, March 25 to ensure it is recorded in fiscal year 2025-26.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact Norah Warmuth at   norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.

Invoicing external customers (Accounts Receivable)

The final date and time that we will be able to process invoices through Banner is Monday, March 30 at 3:00 p.m.  To ensure that all revenue earned to March 31 is captured in the proper fiscal period in Banner, please forward the invoicing details for services rendered or fees to be charged to external customers to the Accounts Receivable department – AccountsReceivable-Trade@durhamcollege.ca  by Wednesday, March 25.  All invoicing details submitted after Wednesday, March 25 and before Wednesday, April 1 for services rendered to March 31 will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26 and invoiced in Banner in fiscal 2026-27.

If you have any questions regarding Accounts Receivable, please email Deborah Duff at   Deborah.duff@durhamcollege.ca.

If you have any questions regarding any of the accounting deadlines above, please email Norah Warmuth, manager, Accounting at norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.

Payroll

Payroll timesheets

For all part-time and contract employees, please ensure timesheets are approved and submitted to payroll by Tuesday, March 10 for both the PT/Contract faculty and support staff for March 20 pay date.

For all full-time support staff employees, please forward all outstanding overtime or other payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 11 for processing on the March 19 pay date.

For all full-time administrative employees and faculty, please forward all outstanding payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 18 for processing on the March 27 pay date.

If there should be March timesheets or payroll adjustments that miss this cutoff, please forward to payroll by Wednesday, April 1 and these will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26.

If you have any questions concerning timesheets, please contact Jenny Razak, manager, payroll at jenny.razak@durhamcollege.ca.

Summary of key cut-off dates for 2024-25 year-end processing

Monday, February 23 – Employee February MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable

Friday, February 27 – New purchase requisitions must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, CFO

Friday, February 27 – Open Purchase Order Report due to Purchasing

Tuesday, March 10 – Payroll adjustments for part-time / contract faculty and support staff due to Payroll

Wednesday, March 11 – Payroll adjustments for full-time support employees due to payroll

Wednesday, March 18 - Payroll adjustments for full-time administrative and faculty due to Payroll

Monday, March 23 – Employee March MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable

Wednesday, March 25 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for invoicing in Banner

Tuesday, March 31 – Final day for goods or services to be completed/received for recording into 2025-26

Wednesday, April 1 – Travel advances for travel expenses in fiscal 2025-26 due to Accounts Payable for processing

Wednesday, April 1 – Outstanding payroll adjustments for period ended March 31 due to payroll for year-end accrual

Wednesday, April 1 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for customer invoicing year-end accrual

Wednesday, April 1 – Petty cash reconciliations due

Thursday, April 2 – Expense reports due to Accounts Payable

Thursday, April 2 – Vendor invoices due to Accounts Payable and any expenses that can be accrued for

Your continued efforts in ensuring a proper fiscal year closing and maintaining fiscal accountability are greatly appreciated. 

 Thank you.

Follow-up to Financial and Operational Update #4 - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

Following last week's update outlining our 2025-26 enrolment outlook and the projected decrease in revenue, Durham College (DC) has made the very difficult decision to adjust our workforce to align with our financial and enrolment realities.

To help offset revenue loss and support the college's long-term sustainability, 21 support staff and administrative positions have been eliminated. In addition, 66 vacant positions have been eliminated or will remain unfilled. As with all decisions regarding our employees, these were not made lightly and reflect the careful, responsible planning required to ensure the college can continue to deliver on its core priorities.

Administrative employees affected by the workforce reductions have been informed, and the notification process for impacted support staff is now underway.  We recognize the uncertainty and concern these decisions may create and appreciate your care and professionalism in supporting one another.

The Employment Stability Committee process, as outlined in the Support Staff Collective Agreement and undertaken in collaboration with union leadership, is now underway to carefully review all available options. Where possible, affected employees will be offered reassignment based on job requirements and skill alignment.

This confidential process may take several weeks to complete, and we are committed to approaching it with care, fairness, and respect for those involved. Human Resources will provide a campus-wide update once the process is complete.

It is important to note that while the new provincial funding model is expected to provide much-needed financial relief, it is still early in the process, and we do not yet have clarity on its full impact on DC. What we do know is that our current enrolment realities require immediate attention. This means continuing to prioritize enrolment growth and retention across the college. Attracting and supporting students is a shared responsibility and requires coordinated effort from all teams to ensure we are positioned for stability and long-term success.

We fully recognize the significant impact these changes have on our people and our operations. We remain committed to supporting employees and sustaining the strong workplace culture that defines DC. Our goal has always been to minimize impacts wherever possible, and we are hopeful that, with funding reforms underway, we can move toward greater stability in the near future.

To ensure open dialogue, Town Hall meetings have been scheduled for Monday, April 13, at 2 p.m. in Oshawa and Friday, April 17, at 1:30 p.m. in Whitby. An Evite will be sent out in the coming days.

Please also remember that, in addition to reaching out to your supervisor for guidance and support, confidential counselling is available through our Employee and Family Assistance Program at homeweb.ca.

Thank you for your continued professionalism, dedication, and commitment to our students and to one another. This is a challenging time for our campus community. By staying focused on our shared purpose and supporting each other through this transition, we will position DC to emerge stronger and more sustainable for the future.

Reminder: Encourage graduating students to attend Countdown to Grad - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

All 2026 graduating students are invited to attend Countdown to Grad. This is where they can register to graduate and learn all they need to know about resources available to them after Convocation.

Event Details:

Wednesday, March 11, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.

Whitby campus, Don Lovisa Building, atrium

Thursday, March 12, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.

Oshawa campus, Student Services Building (SSB), atrium

Faculty with classes during this time, we hope you will encourage your students to attend if scheduling permits. Attending the event should take approximately 30 minutes and will set students up for success as they prepare for Convocation.

Students can view full event details and register on the Convocation microsite.

Registration has been extended to March 9.​

The Campus Store Website Has Officially Relaunched! - Announcements, March 11, 2026

We're excited to share that the Campus Store website has been completely rebuilt with YOU in mind.

Shopping is now:

✔ Easier to navigate​

✔ More engaging to browse

✔ Faster to check out with guest checkout available (no account required!)

Whether you're picking up DC gear, gifts, supplies, or browsing between meetings, the new experience is smoother and more convenient than ever.

Visit the website https://durham.bookware3000.ca/​ today and check out all our new arrivals!

Thank you for continuing to support your Campus Store.

Sharing our new Academic Plan - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic & Students. 

I am pleased to share Durham College's (DC) new Academic Plan which sets our direction for the next four years. Aligned with the college's Strategic Vision, it reflects our shared purpose of transforming lives, building careers, and enriching communities.​​

The Academic Plan's three pillars outline how we will advance teaching and learning, research and community engagement, and student success. It speaks to the full scope of our work: the quality of our programs, the services and supports that help students succeed, and the opportunities and partnerships that expand our impact.

This work is made possible by every employee. Whether you engage directly with students or support the systems that enable their success, your contributions matter. Through closer collaboration between the Academic and Student Affairs portfolios, we are creating a more coordinated and inclusive environment that helps students achieve their goals.

I encourage you to read the Academic Plan and reflect on how its priorities connect to your role. Together, we will ensure exceptional learning experiences for our students, rewarding opportunities with engaged partners, and a more prosperous future for our graduates and the communities we serve. 

Recognizing International Women’s Day at Durham College - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI). 

March 8 is International Women's Day (IWD)! Join us in celebrating the many women, girls, and two-spirit people who have contributed to Canada's culture, economy, and political and intellectual landscape. IWD offers opportunities to both celebrate the innumerable achievements gained by women and girls, while acknowledging the ongoing lived realities of the systemic oppression of women, girls, two-spirit folks, and non-cis people broadly. 

According to the United Nations, women globally currently have only 64% of the legal rights that men hold worldwide. It was less than 100 years ago, in 1929, that Canada's highest court of appeal decided to include women in the legal definition of “persons". In 1985, United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women wanted to know what kind of concrete measures were taken in Canada for the elimination of discrimination against Indigenous women since they represented then “one of the most disenfranchised groups of Canada's population, were still suffering from official discrimination". The ongoing violence against Indigenous girls, women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Canada, as detailed in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, is unconscionable and requires ongoing solidarity and collective action. 

There are various ways you can further inform yourself about the history of women's struggles and celebrate the accomplishments of women and girls in Canada and beyond. One such method is in raising your awareness of resources available to women on campus, including those available on the OEDI website. Learn more about  our rights and responsibilities to create a campus community free of discrimination and harassment, as outlined in the Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, and about the Ontario Human Rights Code. Victim Services of Durham Region has also launched a Durham Region Hate Reporting Resource for people who have experienced hate or discrimination in the region.    

You can also celebrate IWD by joining the Region of Durham for an International Women's Day Event on Tuesday, March 3 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax (registration required). You can explore the struggle and power of Canadian women in the Women in Canadian History Timeline curated by the government of Canada and learn more about the United Nations' theme for IWD 2026, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls."  

Women continue to experience gender inequity and oppression in all areas of society, including education, and this can impact mental health. For resources to access help or to support others, please visit the Durham College Wellness Directory. Supports are also available through Durham Mental Health Services, Ontario Shores and The Women's Multicultural Resource & Counselling Centre of Durham. 

Cybersecurity awareness: building a secure DC culture - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of IT Information Security (InfoSec).

At Durham College (DC), we are committed to providing a safe and open learning environment for our students and employees. Protecting that environment includes safeguarding the college's digital systems and information.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has noted an increase in cyber threats targeting public institutions. Staying alert and following good security practices helps strengthen DC's digital environment.

By remaining vigilant, employees help safeguard the information and systems that support our students, colleagues, and the college.

How you can help

Cyber threat actors often use social engineering to gain access to systems. We ask that you follow these three simple but vital practices:

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) vigilance: MFA is one of our strongest security protections. If you receive an MFA prompt or notification on your phone that you did not personally initiate, do not approve it. An unexpected request may mean someone has already obtained your password and is trying to access your account.

Think Before You Click: Be cautious with emails you aren't expecting, even if they appear to come from a known source. If a message includes an attachment or link that seems unusual or creates a sense of urgency, verify it through another method, such as a phone call or a new message, before clicking.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual, such as unexpected login attempts or suspicious emails, please contact the IT Service Desk immediately. Early reporting helps protect the college.

Our collective security

Cybersecurity is not only about technology. It also depends on the habits we practise every day. By taking these simple steps, employees help ensure our technology continues to support teaching and learning without disruption.

Thank you for helping keep our campus community secure. 

Recognizing you on Employee Appreciation Day - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This mes​sage is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

Earlier this week, I shared the unfortunate news that we have had to make workforce reductions at Durham College (DC) due to our financial constraints, and to realign our work with our enrolment realities. So today, on National Employee Appreciation Day, it feels particularly important to pause and recognize each of you for the valuable role you play in making DC the special organization it is.

The culture we have created here is what truly sets us apart. I consistently hear stories that reflect your integrity, expertise, and genuine care for our students and employees. Our strong reputation is evidence of your dedication and your belief in our ability to transform lives, build careers, and enrich communities.

I have been at DC for more than a decade now, and I still remember the feeling I had when I first came to campus. Employees and students willingly went out of their way to be considerate and inclusive, whether it was holding a door open, saying hello in the hallways, or asking if you needed help. Those simple gestures were kind, warm, and welcoming.

Over the years, I have come to see that those everyday moments add up to an environment where people feel seen, supported, and that they truly matter. Here, we come together genuinely and thoughtfully, valuing collaboration and community to nurture a culture grounded in respect.

Thank you for all that you do, every day, to ensure our college remains a place where we all belong and can thrive.

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION – WHITBY CAMPUS – DOORS WILL BE INACCESSIBLE - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.

What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction

Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.

When:  Saturday March 7, 2026 to Monday March 9, 2026

Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible.  Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.

The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):

Don Lovisa Main Entrance

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building.

Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

​DC Talks: Innovation and Resilience in Healthcare - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​Join us on March 25 for the next DC Talks event, featuring a panel of four Durham College (DC) graduates who are shaping the future of care across diverse and vital areas of the health sector.

This hybrid event will explore how innovation, lived experience, and community-driven approaches are strengthening healthcare systems locally and globally.

Panellists: Beth Brannon (Registered Nursing), Matthew Canning (Practical Nursing), Tamara Dus (Registered Nursing), J.D. Heffern (Advanced Paramedic)

Read their full bios on the Global Class page.

Event details:

Wednesday, March 25, 10:30 a.m. to noon

Rotary Global Classroom, Centre for Collaborative Education (view interactive map), Oshawa campus

Tune in online through the Rotary Global Classroom page or attend in person at the Global Classroom in the Centre for Collaborative Education at DC's Oshawa campus. Visit Eventbrite for more details and to register.

The DC Talks is hosted by the Durham College Alumni Association and aims to inspire current students, facilitate networking among alumni, and highlight success stories. 

Notice of Service Disruption – HVAC Repair, A-Wing - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems, Facilities Management.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: HVAC Repair – A-Wing

This weekend, Facilities will be completing repairs on the main A-Wing air handler unit.

When: Friday March 6, 2 p.m. – Sunday, March 8, 6 p.m.

Impact: No heating in the following areas until repairs are complete:

President's Office

Dental Lab, Second Floor

A-Wing, First Floor

Celebrating International Women’s Day - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This message is shared on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Durham College (DC) celebrates International Women's Day on Sunday, March 8, joining a global movement that began in 1911 to advance women's rights and gender equality. This day is both a celebration and a call to action – a moment to recognize the remarkable achievements of women while drawing continued attention to issues such as discrimination, barriers to education, pay inequities, underrepresentation in leadership, and unequal access to opportunities.

The United Nations' theme for this year's Day of Recognition – Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls. – challenges us to not only affirm our commitment to equality, but to actively pursue it. When women and girls are excluded the impact is far-reaching. As education activist Malala Yousafzai reminds us: “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back."

From my own experiences pursuing education and research in the sciences, I witnessed firsthand that the strongest, most impactful outcomes came from diverse teams – individuals of different gender identities and cultural backgrounds bringing their own unique perspectives to solve complex problems together.

As an educational institution, DC is uniquely positioned to drive change by ensuring women have access, support, and opportunities to thrive. For example, through our programs and pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and skilled trades, we are opening doors and expanding possibilities. Initiatives like our Young Women in Science, Technology and Trades day introduce elementary-aged students to career pathways early, helping them see themselves in fields where women have been historically underrepresented.

Our college community is strengthened every day by the women who study, teach, mentor, and lead here. Their contributions shape our culture, expand our thinking, and inspire those around them. Today, we celebrate their achievements, their resilience, and the countless ways they elevate our campus. We honour the trailblazers who paved the way, the innovators who are redefining what's possible, and the students who are boldly stepping into their futures. DC is better because of them — and because of the communities of support that champion their success.

On International Women's Day, let's reaffirm our commitment to removing barriers, broadening access and fostering an environment where every woman belongs.

Welcome Kayleen Mertz, Manager, Emergency Management, Office of Campus Safety - Announcements, March 11, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.

I am pleased to share Kayleen Mertz joined Durham College (DC) on February 17, as the Manager, Emergency Management, in the Office of Campus Safety.

Kayleen brings an extensive background in emergency management, including as the Emergency Management Duty Officer for the Treasury Board Secretariat and most recently as the Senior Safety Regulatory Officer for Metrolinx. Her expertise and experience will support and strengthen our efforts to enhance campus readiness and resilience, advance our emergency preparedness initiatives, and support our community.

Kayleen is a proud graduate of DC's Police Foundations program, and holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology, Criminology and Justice from Ontario Tech University. She also has completed courses in fire safety, fire sprinkler design, and mental health.

We are thrilled to welcome Kayleen back to DC where she has a strong connection to our campus and a deep appreciation for the work we do. Please join me in welcoming Kayleen to Durham College.

Planned test of emergency alert system, March 11 - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of the Office of Campus Safety.

Durham College will conduct a planned test of the Alertus Mass Notification System on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. The test will last less than five minutes and will ensure the proper functioning of Durham College's Emergency Mass Notification Tool (EMNT), which is used during active incidents that could impact the safety of individuals on campus.

During the brief test, employees may experience the following:

Yellow Alertus beacons and marquees flashing and beeping, with an on-screen message

Verbal announcements through campus speakers

Desktop takeover alerts on computers with Alertus installed

Push notifications on mobile devices for those registered with the AlertAware app

No action is required. This is strictly a hardware and software test. No evacuation, lockdown, or other response is needed.

Being prepared starts with staying informed. If you have not already downloaded and registered the AlertAware mobile app, please do so. The app delivers real-time emergency notifications directly to your mobile device.

Employees are also encouraged to review DC's emergency procedures. Taking these steps helps protect you and everyone on campus.

Register now to participate in Spring Open House – Saturday, March 28 - Announcements, March 11, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Evan Arsenault, Event Coordinator, Communications and Marketing.

Durham College's Spring Open House is taking place Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses. We are inviting employees to take part in helping bring the DC experience to life for prospective students and their families.

Spring Open House is one of our most important recruitment events of the year. It offers guests the opportunity to explore our campuses, connect with program teams, learn about student services and picture themselves beginning their academic journey at DC. The energy and engagement they encounter often shapes their decision.

Why your participation matters:

Help guests feel welcome and informed as they explore the 145+ DC programs.

Share your insights into campus life, facilities, support services, and the opportunities that make DC a compelling choice.

Promote program highlights or experiences that inspire prospective students.

Participant roles include:

Welcoming guests and answering questions

Tour guide support

General event assistance

Apply Now room support

If you are not already representing your Faculty or department, we would greatly appreciate your participation at the event. You play an important role in helping future students feel confident, informed and excited about joining our DC community.

All participants are required to register by Wednesday, March 11.

Thank you for contributing your time. We look forward to showcasing Durham College together.

2025-26 Financial and Operational Update #4 - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​Th​is message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

On February 12, I shared an update about the government's announcement of a new, long-term funding model that will bring an additional $6.4 billion over four years to publicly assisted colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, starting in 2026-27. This long-awaited news recognizes our post-secondary system's critical role in delivering high-quality education and building Ontario's future workforce. 

Colleges met with the ministry last week to receive a technical briefing outlining the key changes to the new funding model. It was communicated that final binding allocations will be approved and executed for institutions to review and implement in Summer 2026, as part of the Strategic Mandate Agreement process. We are encouraged that this new funding will help ease some of the financial pressure we are facing. At the same time, it is important to balance optimism with a clear understanding of our broader fiscal realities.

Our Winter Intake data confirms a larger-than-expected decline in international student enrolment. While our domestic student enrolment was strong at 9,971 students – 106.8 per cent of budget target, international enrolment of 1,640 students reached only 79.3 per cent of the budget target, falling short of expectations. As a result, post-secondary tuition revenue for the Winter 2026 semester is lower than anticipated.

While this new funding will provide some much-needed relief, given our enrolment realities and the government's expectation that the sector continue to find efficiencies despite this new funding, we must remain focused on our core vision and be intentional about the work we do. As part of this responsible planning process, we have begun a review that is expected to result in some workforce reductions.  

The post-secondary sector has faced an unprecedented funding crisis, creating an exceptionally challenging and stressful time for colleges, and we recognize the impact this is having within our own community. Ensuring our financial sustainability requires continued due diligence in prioritization, tough decisions, and care in how we move forward together.

My commitment remains to be transparent and to ensure employees have the support they need through this period. If you require assistance, please connect with your manager or our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) at homeweb.ca.

We will provide updates once we have more details to share on how the new funding will impact Durham College in the short and long term, and as decisions are made. Thank you for your continued professionalism, resilience, and dedication to our students and to one another during this challenging time.

This Week in International Education - International Student Mid-Semester Check-in - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

The International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE) team will be hosting a mid‑semester check‑in session for international students on Wednesday, March 4, from 1:00–3:00 PM at The Pit (Oshawa Campus).

During this informal drop‑in, students can connect individually with an ISSE team member to discuss topics such as immigration‑related questions, engagement opportunities, and available supports and resources. No appointment is required.

If you work with international students in your academic faculty or service area, please help share this opportunity and encourage students to attend. Your support helps ensure they access timely guidance and resources.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

Explore Grant 2026 – Funding opportunity for DC Faculty - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

The Social Impact Hub received an Institutional Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada designed to assist Canadian post-secondary institutions to develop and maintain a solid base of research and research-related activities in the social sciences and humanities.

With these funds, the Social Impact Hub is launching the first Explore Grant competition, offering micro-grants to support full-time faculty members embarking on projects that are one semester in length. Each project is eligible to receive funding for a student Research Assistant to provide an experiential learning opportunity for a Durham College student as well as minimal funds for additional resources required to complete the project. The faculty lead will receive eight hours SWF time to complete the project. 

Eligibility:

To be eligible, project activities must meet the following:

The research activity must be primarily in a social science or humanities discipline (aligned with the SSHRC legislated mandate) and;

The intended outcome of the research must primarily be to add to our understanding and knowledge of individuals, groups, and societies - what we think, how we live, and how we interact with each other and the world around us.

Funded activities must lead to/support a plan for external application for research funds, including the College and Community Social Innovation Fund.

Applicants must be full-time DC faculty members and must receive approval from their Executive Dean/Associate Dean prior to submitting an application.

Priority will be given to projects with a focus on Indigenous Research as defined by SSHRC, with the aim of funding at least one per round.

Projects are expected to be completed within one semester.

Funding parameters:

Explore Grants will fund direct costs of applied research projects:

Teaching replacement costs, if required

Part-time student research assistant hours (35-55 hrs; one semester; one student)

Other eligible costs may include:

travel required to collect data or collaborate with community partner,

equipment, software or supplies,

honoraria for research participants and/or persons with lived experience.

Timeline:

Deadline March 6 by 5 p.m.

Review process March 

Results April 13

Project start date Fall 2026 (REB applications may be submitted in spring) or Winter 2027

Application Process:

Deadline: Friday March 6 (must be received by 5 p.m.)

Submit applications by email to: socialimpacthub@durhamcollege.ca

The application form can be found here.​

Sharing news regarding the passing of June Castanha, Fitness Instructor, Department of Athletics and Recreation - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

I'm sorry to share with you that June “Zahra" Castanha, a fitness instructor in the Department of Athletics and Recreation, has passed away.

​Zahra joined Durham College (DC) in 2011, teaching fitness classes to students and employees. Her classes encouraged participants to engage creatively while learning about cultural identity, collaboration and self-expression. She was admired for her passion, generosity, and commitment to uplifting others through the arts.

A tribute to Zahra is available on the Simple Alternative website. To honour Zahra's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Zahra's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.

Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).​

Nominations Now Open - Administrative Staff Governor Election - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Chief Returning Officer, Durham College (DC) Board of Governors.  Please direct inquires to Melissa Pringle.

It's time to choose the administrative staff member who will join the DC Board of Governors and help guide the college over the next three years.

Here's what you need to know about the coming election and the position:

Who we are looking for

One (1) administrative staff member position on the DC Board of Governors.

*The current administrative staff governor, Kelly Doyle, will have completed her second three-year term on August 31 and therefore is not eligible for re-election.

Length of appointment Three-year term, starting September 1, 2026

Qualifications to participate

All permanent administrative employees are encouraged to put their names forward.

While the final selection will be made by election, the Board's Nominating Committee has identified several priority areas from the Board's Skills Matrix where additional expertise would be particularly valuable. These include:

Accounting and finance (CPA designation preferred)

Agriculture

Artificial intelligence and information technology

Defense and security

Energy

Community services

Human resources and labour relations

Time commitment Approximately 15 to 20 hours per month

Compensation This is a volunteer position

What's involved?

The administrative staff member on the DC Board of Governors will:

Represent the college for a three-year term, bringing the administrative staff perspective to decision-making

Help shape the future and strategic direction of the college.

Attend board and committee meetings.

Participate in professional development opportunities and special events.

Nomination period Friday, February 20 to March 12, at 1 p.m.

Campaign period Wednesday, March 18 to April 1

Voting period Monday, March 30 to April 1

For more information and to get the nomination form, visit this website.

Schedule & Keynote Spotlight / Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ March 5, 2026 - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to ctl@durhamcollege.ca.

Winter Academic PD Day

Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026

Time: 8:30 a.m.​

Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)

Website: durhamcollege.ca/ctl/pd/academic-pd/winter-2026

Location & Date Change Notes

While we are aware Academic PD Day has historically been held in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) during the fall reading week and the week before the start of the spring semester, we have moved the event to the Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR) on Thursday, March 5, 2026 for the winter.

Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!

Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall. ​

SCHEDULE OVERVIEW

8:30 a.m.​​​

​​Registration

​9 a.m.

​​Welcome & Opening Address

with Amanda Maknyik​

​9:05 a.m.

​​Land Acknowledgement

with Dr. Jean Choi

​9:10 a.m.

​​Announcing the 2026-30 Academic Plan

with Dr. Jean Choi​

​9:30 a.m.

​​Aligning the Academic Plan with the 2026-30 Teaching & Learning Plan

with Amanda Maknyik​

​9:40 a.m.

​​Break

​9:50 a.m. ​Keynote /

​​​Building Inclusive Classroom Communities

with Taraneh Vejdani​

KEYNOTE SPOTLIGHT

Photo of Taraneh Vejdani.

The CTL is excited to welcome Taraneh Vejdani to present the opening keynote during Winter Academic PD Day!

Building Inclusive Classroom Communities

This two-hour workshop is focused on building inclusive classrooms, while encouraging faculty to reflect on their personal bias, language use, and unintentional microaggressions. Through interactive activities, group dialogue, and personal storytelling, faculty will deepen their understanding of how identities and lived experiences shape our perspectives as leaders in the classroom. We will learn techniques for responding to microaggressions, navigating difficult conversations, using inclusive language, and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. The session emphasizes strategies for building an inclusive classroom, while encouraging self‑reflection to foster a collaborative sense of responsibility for creating braver learning environments. Taraneh Vejdani’s (she/her) approach to these topics is from the perspectives of love and learning and will leave faculty with some actionable items they can take and use in their classrooms to build safer spaces for learning. After the workshop, participants will complete a brief reflection evaluating their comfort and growth in applying equity‑focused practices and leave with practical next steps.​

About Taraneh Vejdani

Taraneh (she/her) has been an educator for youth and adults, particularly folks from marginalized communities, for the past decade. Her B.A. in International Development Studies, combined with her lived experience as a 1.5-generation immigrant, allows her to reflect on social justice and equity issues from both local and global perspectives. Her love for arts and media motivates her to create engaging and participatory educational spaces that promote self-reflection, collective learning, and a creative mindset to create a sense of belonging.”​

SAVE YOUR SPOT

Hurry! Registration closes March 4, 2026.

[ REGISTER NOW ]

Learn more

Visit the CTL website for additional details.​

NOW OPEN: CEWIL Canada's iHUB Call for Proposals - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning. If you have questions, please email  anna.degrauwe@durhamcollege.ca .

The Experiential Learning team in the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) supports hands-on and reflective work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities. Applications are now open for the Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) iHub grant funding for WIL experiences between May 1 and December 31, 2026.

The CEWIL iHub provides grant-based funding to WIL opportunities like applied research/industry projects, entrepreneurship, field placements and service-learning. By doing so, they support the advancement and innovation of WIL and ensure projects are delivered with appropriate quality and learning standards for students. Funding will be awarded to eligible applicants who meet the evaluation criteria. To learn more about the CEWIL iHub funding and application instructions, visit the iHub website here and the Application Guide here. 

As iHUB is designed to support innovation in work-integrated learning, particularly innovation that leverages technology and expanding access to WIL, all project proposals must address one or more of the following key outcomes:

Expand access to WIL opportunities, particularly for under-represented and underresourced students;

Remove barriers for students to participate in work-integrated learning;

Leverage technology to enhance programming or extend access, including the use of technology to support virtual or remote WIL experiences;

Innovate work-integrated learning through new partnerships and/or new models for curricular WIL.

Special consideration may be given if the project addresses one or more of the federal government's priorities.

The deadline of Wednesday, March 18, applies to projects that would operate from May to December 2026. A call for projects that would only operate from September to December 2026 is expected in May. Staff who intend to submit a proposal are asked to obtain approval from their executive/associate dean and notify the EL team at experientiallearning@durhamcollege.ca by Friday, March 6. We look forward to supporting all eligible applicants. 

Playoff Weekend: Lords Volleyball and Basketball - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​This is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

​Durham College varsity playoffs continue this weekend with both our women’s volleyball and men’s basketball teams competing on the provincial stage.

Women’s Volleyball – Final Four

The Lords are one of four teams remaining at the 2026 OCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship, hosted at Seneca Polytechnic’s King City campus.

Durham (14-2 regular season, second place in the East Division) will face the St. Clair Saints in the semifinal on Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m.

The team will then compete for a medal on Saturday, February 28:

Bronze Medal Match – 3:30 p.m.

Gold Medal Match – 6​​ p.m.

Saturday’s opponent will be either the Seneca Sting or Humber Hawks, depending on semifinal results.

Seneca will be live streaming this game on the OCAA's YouTube channel.

Men’s Basketball – Quarter-Final

The Lords men’s basketball team heads to Humber Polytechnic for the 2026 OCAA Men’s Basketball Championship quarter-finals.

Durham (14-4 regular season, three-way tie for first place in the East Division) will take on the Humber Hawks on Saturday, February 28 at 3 p.m. in a highly anticipated rematch of both the 2025 provincial championship and national championship games.

The winner advances to the OCAA Final Four.

Humber will be live streaming this game via the Humber Sports Network on YouTube.

Best of luck to both teams as they represent Durham College on the provincial stage. Go Lords!​

DC student-athletes recognized with all-star awards - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

The Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) announced the award winners for the 2025-26 volleyball and basketball seasons this week.

We would like to recognize various award winners from our four varsity volleyball and basketball teams.

​Men's Basketball

Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - CCAA All-Canadian

Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - OCAA East Division Player of the Year

Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - OCAA East Division Defensive Player of the Year

Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care)​ - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star

Durham Lords - OCAA East Division Best Defensive Team

Women's Basketball

Sarah-Jane Laplante (Police Foundations) - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star

Men's Volleyball

Jalen Arias (Fitness and Health Promotion) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star 

Women's Volleyball

Jessie Buck (Architectural Technology) - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star 

Elizabeth McFarland (Accounting - Business) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star

Brooke Young (Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star

Food Services Hours - Reading Week - March 2 - March 6, 2026 - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of Amanda Blenkhorn, Director, Ancillary Services.

The following Food Service locations will be open during Reading Week from Monday, March 2 to Friday, March 6, 2026:

Oshawa Campus

Tim Horton's B Wing

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Marketplace Cafe (San Marzano Pizza and Grab and Go Offerings Only)

Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: CLOSED

Tim Horton's SSB

Monday - Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Thursday - Friday:  CLOSED

South Village Dining Hall*

Monday - Friday:  7:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Whitby Campus

Tim Horton's Whitby

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

*À  la carte menu options are available for walk-up purchases at the South Village Dining Hall.​

Staff First! Sale at the Campus stores - Announcements, March 3, 2026

 STAFF FIRST LOOK: NEW ARRIVALS WEEK

Be the first to wear what’s new.

Next week (March 2nd to 6th) only, staff get:

✨ EXTRA 10% OFF all NEW apparel

🗓 Ends Friday, March 6

📍 Come visit the campus store for a special surprise!

Staff exclusive. Limited sizes. First come, first styled.

Durham Lords Varsity Auction is open until March 31 - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

The 2026 Durham Lords Varsity Auction is officially live and it’s your chance to support student-athletes while bidding on an incredible lineup of experiences, merchandise and exclusive prizes.

For decades, Durham College varsity athletics has built a tradition of excellence. Across our 13 varsity programs, the Lords have captured hundreds of provincial medals, as well as dozens of national championships and All-Canadian honours. That success is powered by the dedication of our student-athletes and by the support of our community.

Funds raised through the auction will directly benefit Durham Lords student-athletes by supporting:

Awards that reduce financial barriers

Unique training and development opportunities

Specialized equipment

Health and wellness resources

Proceeds will go toward varsity team fundraising accounts or the Ken Babcock Athletic Scholarship Fund, helping ensure our athletes have the resources they need to succeed in competition, in the classroom and beyond.

This year’s auction features something for everyone, including:

Exclusive “Train with the Lords” team experiences

Strength and conditioning sessions and sport-specific training

One-of-a-kind facility rentals at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre, Campus Fieldhouse, Campus Ice Centre and Esports Arena

Unique campus experiences

Fitness memberships, training packages and wellness sessions

Premium sports tickets and local experience packages

Gift cards to popular restaurants and retailers

Durham Lords Adidas apparel, retro gear and limited merchandise

Whether you're looking to represent the green and gold, enjoy a memorable experience with friends, or secure a great deal on premium items, every bid makes a difference.

Please visit MailScanner has detected a possible fraud attempt from "www.32auctions.com" claiming to be durhamlords.com/auction​. The auction closes March 31 at 7:00 p.m. Place your bids, support Durham Lords athletics, and help empower our student-athletes to maximize their potential.

Elizabeth McFarland, Rashane Smith named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Elizabet​h McFarland of the women's volleyball team and Rashane Smith of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending March 1, 2026.

McFarland, an Accounting - Business Transfer student, was named a championship all-star at the 2026 OCAA Women's Volleyball Championship over the weekend. McFarland earned player of the match honours in Friday's semifinal against St. Clair, recording eight kills, three solo blocks and a service ace for 12.0 points to go along with 10 digs. In Saturday's bronze medal match against Seneca, she registered another eight kills, one block and one service ace for 10.0 points, as well as four digs.

Smith, a Fitness & Health Promotion student, recorded a double-double in Saturday's quarter-final against Humber, leading the team with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Leading the team in a third category, Smith accounted for two of Durham's six steals on the day. This was his highest scoring performance of the season.

The 2025-26 women's volleyball and men's basketball seasons have come to an end.

Students can now book Entry Immunization Form (EIF) appointments online - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​The Campus Health Centre has announced that students can now book EIF appointments online.

Students can conveniently reserve their spot through our website here: Entry Immunizations Form (EIF) - Durham College. Students will also find all the guidance they need on our webpage to ensure their appointment goes smoothly and their form is completed correctly.

To make things even more convenient, the clinic has expanded our hours to include early morning EIF appointments (by appointment only), allowing students to complete their immunizations before morning classes. We have also added additional appointment availability so that students in your programs can fulfill their EIF requirements ahead of placement.

Please share this update with anyone working in programs requiring EIF services and encourage students to book their appointments well in advance of their Synergy due dates. Remember: completing an EIF typically requires 4–6 visits, depending on which immunizations are needed.

Parasport Try-It Week is here! - Announcements, March 3, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Come out and try wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and sledge hockey — all free and open to everyone. No experience needed, just bring your energy and curiosity!

This drop-in is a great chance to learn new skills, meet new people, and experience sport in an inclusive environment. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just trying something new, there’s a spot for you.

Wheelchair Basketball

Monday, March 9, 2026

CRWC Gym 3

3:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Sitting Volleyball

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

CRWC Gym 3

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Sledge Hockey

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 & Thursday March 12, 2026

Campus Ice Centre Pad 1

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Updates to the Purchasing Card policy and procedures - Announcements, March 3, 2026

​​​The following update is shared on behalf of Barb MacCheyne, Vice President, Corporate Services and CFO, and Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.

Durham College has updated sections 4 and 5 of the Purchasing Card Policy to strengthen governance and clarify requirements related to technology procurement.

A new section (4.2) has been added to the policy statements, specifying that that all technology-related purchases must comply with college technology governance requirements, including adherence to approved standards and any required IT review.

Additional procedural updates (5.6.1 to 5.6.4) clarify expectations for cardholders, including:

All technology-related purchases, regardless of funding source, must follow IT Services procurement and integration guidelines.

Purchasing cards must not be used for technology purchases that:

Exceed the IT review threshold (currently $500 per transaction);

Require new or changed integration with Banner or other enterprise systems;

Introduce new cloud or hosted services, off-site data storage, or access to confidential or student data. Where a technology tool collects, uses, retains or processes personal information, a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) is required.

Cardholders must confirm that technology items are either on the IT-approved standards list or have explicit IT Services approval, and must retain evidence of approval for audit purposes.

Technology-related purchases above defined thresholds must be reviewed and approved by IT Services before any commitment of funds.

These updates are intended to ensure alignment with institutional technology standards, reduce risk, and support sustainable, well-integrated technology investments across the college.

The updated Purchasing Card Policy is available on ICE.

This Week in International Education - Uzbekistan Student Workshop - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

On Monday, the International Recruitment (IR) team successfully hosted the Uzbekistan Student Workshop 2026. This new initiative represents a strategic collaboration with a single overseas agent to deliver an exclusive DC admissions event within one country. More than 100 prospective students attended the workshop, where they received valuable information and gained an early glimpse into what studying at Durham College could look like.

DC UZ Student Workshop 2026 (2).jpeg

DC UZ Student Workshop 2026 (6).jpeg

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

CTL Compass ❄️ February 2026 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​​This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca. 

The CTL Compass, a digital newsletter from the Centre for Teaching & Learning​, is here!

Faculty member supporting two students in a classroom.

CTL Compass

Winter Semester ❄️ February 2026

Winter Academic PD Day.

Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!

Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall.

Additionally, the call for proposals is now open. Learn more in the CTL Compass!

Event details

Winter Academic PD Day ❄️

Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026

Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)

In this issue

HIGHLIGHTS

Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ March 5, 2026​

Mid-term Grades Submission / March 3 at 12 p.m.​

Faculty Partial Secondments

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, SUPPORT & RESOURCES

Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) / Call for Proposals​

Upcoming Fall College Teaching Certificate (CTC) Courses / F2026​

What’s New in DC Connect & Coursedog​

Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities

FYIS

Upcoming Important Dates / Winter 2026

[ START READING ]

📣 Stay tuned for the March issue of the CTL Compass Express next month!

​

2025-26 Financial and Operational Update #3 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

T​his message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

As we continue planning for the upcoming fiscal cycle, I want to provide an update on our financial outlook and the steps we are taking to ensure Durham College's (DC) long-term stability.

At the fall Town Halls, we shared that we are forecasting a small surplus for 2025-26. This is largely due to unexpected short-term government funding, strong domestic enrolment, changes to vacation liability expenses, additional revenue generation, and some decreased expenses. Thank you for your efforts and contributions, which have made a notable difference. This surplus will directly support our financial sustainability by moving our reserve from negative to positive. We also noted at our Town Halls that our financial outcome would remain fluid – and it has.

Our financial outlook over the next few years, however, continues to be challenged by two key factors. First, despite system-wide advocacy, the current provincial funding model has not kept pace with operational realities. Although the government is reviewing the model, no immediate changes are expected, and funding pressures are expected to persist. Second, international enrolment continues to decline and is now anticipated to be significantly lower than originally projected for 2026-27, resulting in a larger forecasted deficit. Based on these factors, we must continue to operate under – and plan for – a multi-year period of financial constraint.

With this in mind, effective immediately, the following measures are being introduced:

Hiring decisions: While all roles at the college are important, we will pause hiring wherever possible. Only positions deemed critical to maintaining operations and supporting core services will be considered by the Executive Leadership Team for approval.

Discretionary spending: Budget holders are asked to review planned expenditures carefully and pause non-essential spending until further notice.

These actions are part of a broader strategy to manage our resources responsibly while we refine longer-term plans to address the projected multi-year deficits. Over the coming months, we will continue to review budgets across the college and identify opportunities to realign our work with our financial realities.

We will keep you informed as this work progresses. Your professionalism, care, and commitment to our students and the DC community remain invaluable as we navigate this challenging environment together.

Active Living Challenge sees record participation - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Thank you to everyone who participated in yet another successful Active Living Challenge. From January 5 to 30, you moved your body by walking, shovelling snow, working out, and so much more. With all this activity, our Durham College and Ontario Tech community submitted 1,595 online ALC ballots and set a new record for number of participants.

ALC Winners

Week 1

Michael Rosedo (Ontario Tech)

Nicole Niklaus-Rochon (Durham College)

Week 2

Eden Henderson (Ontario Tech)

Monica Jain (Durham College)

Week 3

Odain Walch (Ontario Tech)

Lori Wilson (Durham College)

Week 4

Jamie Thistle (Durham College)

Kevin Jones (Durham College)

Grand Prize – two Batch Fitness Hybrid Bikes

Claire Carscadden (Ontario Tech)

Natalie Zarins (Durham College)

We also hosted weekly fitness challenges like wall sit, bar hang, plank, and grip strength, which saw over 60 participants alone in week 4.

Photos of the winners will be posted to DC-OT Campus Recreation Instagram.

Thank you to all that participated. We look forward to continuing to be a part of your active living journey!

Athletics partners with DCSA for Culture on the Court - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

​Join the Durham Lords and the Durham College Student Association (DCSA) at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre for an exciting night of basketball on Friday, February 13 celebrating Black History Month through sport, culture and community.

Durham College’s women’s and men’s basketball teams will face the George Brown Huskies in a Friday night doubleheader in partnership with the DCSA. The night will feature live music, shirts, free food and giveaways! We will also be celebrating our graduating seniors prior to each game.​

The women's game begins at 6 p.m., with the men's game tipping off at 8 p.m.

If you can't make it out on Wednesday to see the debut of their black jerseys, the teams will be wearing them a second time at Friday's Culture on the Court matchup.

Supporting our community following tragedy in British Columbia - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news of a mass shooting at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia yesterday. Our thoughts are with the impacted students, employees, and families as they navigate the profound grief and trauma caused by this horrific act of violence. 

Incidents like this extend far beyond the immediate community and can be deeply unsettling for students and employees across the education sector, including here at Durham College. In moments like these, it is important that we reaffirm our commitment to creating safe, supportive, and welcoming spaces for all members of our community. We encourage everyone to check in with colleagues, classmates, and friends, and to seek support if needed. Small acts of care and connection can make a meaningful difference during difficult times.

Supports and resources are always available to members of the Durham College community. Anyone in need of support is encouraged to reach out.​

For Employees

Homewood Health is accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).

For Students

I.M. Well Student Assistance Program (24/7): 1-833-398-9040

Good2Talk Helpline (24/7): 1-866-925-5454

Durham College Student Association – Support Hub: DCSA.SupportHub@durhamcollege.ca or Support Hub

Campus Health and Wellness Centre: 905-721-3037, CHWC@durhamcollege.ca or CHWC

First Peoples Indigenous Centre: indigenous@durhamcollege.ca

Access and Support Centre: ASC@durhamcollege.ca

Additional campus and community resources are available online at Are You Ok? 

Board of Governors Spotlight: Lisa Allen - Announcements, February 24, 2026

The Durham College (DC) Board of Governors sets the course for our future. Comprised of 12 external board members, four internal board members and the college president, they guide us in our ongoing vision to transform lives, build careers and enrich communities.

Lisa Allen has served as an external Governor for the Durham College (DC) Board of Governors since 2020 and is currently the Chair of the Board. She brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, risk management, internal controls, and data analytics to DC.

Lisa spoke to us about her drive to give back to the community, how the strategic vision resonated with her, the DC program she'd love to enrol in, and what she would teach if given the opportunity.

What motivated you to get involved with the DC Board of Governors?

My motivation comes from being a long time Durham Region resident and a desire to continue giving back to the community in a meaningful way. Volunteerism has always been important to me, and over time I became increasingly aware of the College's far-reaching impact — both within our region and well beyond it.

Joining the Board felt like a natural extension of that commitment. While the institution is grounded in post-secondary education, its influence touches so many aspects of our community and contributes to conversations at the provincial, national, and even global levels.

Serving on the Board has allowed me to stay connected and engaged while supporting an institution that plays such a vital role in shaping the future of our community.

What inspires you most about DC, its employees or its students?

What inspires me most about DC is the strong and meaningful connection between students and employees. I recently attended an Academic Kickoff session where I saw a video that featured story after story from students who spoke about how an employee had made a real difference in their lives. Through guidance, encouragement, and support, those employees helped students recognize their own potential and achieve things they hadn't thought possible.

Those moments truly stayed with me. Students are the reason I do this work — their growth, their aspirations, and their futures. But it is the employees who make that transformation possible. Their dedication, the relationships they build with students, and the way they show up every day create an environment where students can truly thrive.

In many ways, students are the “why," and employees are the “how." It's that partnership — and the impact it creates — that inspires me most.

In 2025, the Board approved a new Strategic Vision for the college. What part of the Strategic Vision resonates with you the most, and why?

The part of the Strategic Vision that resonates most with me is the first goal — our future-focused commitment to being the first and best choice as a globally recognized leader in delivering the innovative, lifelong learning that students, communities, and industries need most.

What really stands out to me is the emphasis on looking ahead and setting ambitious goals. A long term, future oriented mindset is essential for any institution that wants to remain relevant and truly transformative. This goal speaks to a willingness to evolve, to innovate, and to continuously strive for excellence.

For me, it's about encouraging everyone — students, employees, and the institution as a whole — to aim higher and not limit their potential. That drive to think boldly and reach beyond what's expected is what makes this vision so meaningful.

If you had the opportunity to return to DC as a student, what program would you take?

I would take the Trade Fundamentals program. During the pandemic, I became a bit of a backyard mechanic and started doing my own oil and tire changes, which sparked my love for do-it-yourself projects.

What I enjoyed most was how practical and immediately useful those skills were. Building a stronger foundation across different trades would be both helpful and empowering, and it's something I would genuinely enjoy pursuing.

If you had to teach a 10-minute class on anything, what would it be?

I would love to teach a class on personal finance and budgeting, as it aligns closely with my own skill set. For me, it wouldn't just be about covering the fundamentals — it would be about helping people define what “enough" truly means for them.

So many individuals grapple with questions like: Can I retire? Am I choosing a career that will support the lifestyle I want? What does financial security look like for me? These are deeply personal questions, and I would want to equip people with the tools and confidence to answer them for themselves.

Message from the College Employer Council related to the CAAT Pension Plan - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.​

The College Employer Council (CEC) has provided a message related to the CAAT Pension Plan and they have asked that it be shared with all college employees. Please see the attached communication from the CEC.

Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ Save the Date and Call for Proposals - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to ctl@durhamcollege.ca.

Winter Academic PD Day

Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026

Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)

Website: durhamcollege.ca/ctl/pd/academic-pd/winter-2026

Location & Date Change Notes

While we are aware Academic PD Day has historically been held in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) during the fall reading week and the week before the start of the spring semester, we have moved the event to the Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR) on Thursday, March 5, 2026 for the winter.

Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!

Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall. ​

CALL FOR PROPOSALS

Do you foster an inclusive, brave space in your classroom?

We encourage you to submit sessions focused on your experiences with creating a more inclusive, diverse space and ways in which you are using Universal Design for Learning or Wholistic approaches in your classroom. However, we are also open to accepting sessions that highlight general teaching, learning and assessment practices at DC. Individual and/or joint (interdisciplinary and cross-departmental) session(s) will be considered.

When completing your proposal, you will be asked to submit a title, short session description and names of co-presenters (if applicable). The session description you provide will be used in CTL promotional materials for the event, including the CTL Compass and on CTL socials.

Be a part of Winter Academic PD Day!

Proposals will be accepted until February 16.​

[ SUBMIT A PROPOSAL ]

Learn more

Visit the CTL website for additional details.​

Explore Grant 2026 – Funding opportunity for DC Faculty - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

The Social Impact Hub received an Institutional Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada designed to assist Canadian post-secondary institutions to develop and maintain a solid base of research and research-related activities in the social sciences and humanities.

With these funds, the Social Impact Hub is launching the first Explore Grant competition offering micro-grants to support full-time faculty members embarking on projects that are one semester in length. Each project is eligible to receive funding for a student Research Assistant to provide an experiential learning opportunity for a Durham College student and as well as minimal funds for additional resources required to complete the project. The faculty lead will receive eight hours SWF time to complete the project. 

Eligibility:

To be eligible, project activities must meet the following:

The research activity must be primarily in a social science or humanities discipline (aligned with the SSHRC legislated mandate) and;

The intended outcome of the research must primarily be to add to our understanding and knowledge of individuals, groups, and societies - what we think, how we live, and how we interact with each other and the world around us.

Funded activities must lead to/support a plan for external application for research funds, including the College and Community Social Innovation Fund.

Applicants must be full-time DC faculty members and must receive approval from their Executive Dean/Associate Dean prior to submitting an application.

Priority will be given to projects with a focus on Indigenous Research as defined by SSHRC, with the aim of funding at least one per round.

Projects are expected to be completed within one semester.

Funding parameters:

Explore Grants will fund direct costs of applied research projects:

Teaching replacement costs, if required

Part-time student research assistant hours (35-55 hrs; one semester; one student)

Other eligible costs may include:

travel required to collect data or collaborate with community partner,

equipment, software or supplies,

honoraria for research participants and/or persons with lived experience.

Timeline:

Deadline March 6, 2026 by 5 p.m.

Review process March 2026

Results April 13, 2026

Project start date Fall 2026 (REB applications may be submitted in spring) or Winter 2027

Application Process:

Deadline: Friday March 6, 2026 (must be received by 5pm)

Submit applications by email to: socialimpacthub@durhamcollege.ca

The application form can be found here.​

You're Invited! The Barrett Centre Digital Lecture Series: Session #2 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

Join us for Session #2 of The Barrett Centre Winter Lecture Series,

Growing with Confidence: Financial Strategies for Scaling Urban Food Initiatives,

on Thursday, February 26th at 1:30pm.

This session features Anchor Speaker Jennifer Bedford from Durham College, who will explore how participatory storytelling can engage communities, strengthen urban agriculture projects and create actionable insights for municipal and industry partners.

Following her presentation, Jennifer will be joined by an expert panel that includes:

Domenique Mastronardi from Beck's Broth

Andrew Staniforth from RBC

Carrie Hage from Rideau Hall Foundation

This session will introduce participants to participatory storytelling and explore how this approach can be applied when communicating with funders. Participants will learn how crafting compelling narratives can help engage with funding networks and support connections to mission-aligned financing opportunities. The session will also highlight how storytelling builds practical skills for grant writing, proposal development, and reporting, helping to support sustainable and accountable growth.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-barrett-centre-winter-lecture-series-session-2-tickets-1981783231995?aff=oddtdtcreator

Significant provincial investment in the post-secondary sector announced today - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Elaine Popp, President. 

Dear colleagues,

This morning, the provincial government announced a major investment of $6.4 billion over four years to provide new funding for colleges, universities and Indigenous institutions.

This announcement is welcome news following many months of sustained advocacy by Ontario post-secondary institutions, urging the government to stabilize and modernize funding and reconsider its seven-year tuition freeze. Today's commitment signals that the government has heard the concerns raised and is investing to address the sector's structural funding gap, supporting financial sustainability. Colleges are being recognized for the critical role they play in preparing the workforce on which Ontario's economy depends.

We are grateful for the province's significant investment; it is an important and positive step forward. The individual allocations of the funding for each institution, including Durham College (DC), have not yet been shared. Once we receive the critical details around this announcement, we'll be in a better position to assess the direct impact on DC.

In the meantime, I am encouraged by this news for our sector. I will keep you informed as more details become available.

Please read the full release from the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. 

Advancing Indigenization and Reconciliation Across Durham College - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of the Durham College Indigenization Council.

Durham College (DC) continues to strengthen its commitment to Indigenization, integrating Indigenous perspectives across the College and fostering a supportive environment for Indigenous students. This work is guided by Colleges and Institutes Canada's Indigenous Education Protocol, which underscores the importance of structures and approaches required to address Indigenous peoples' learning needs and support the self-determination and socio-economic development of Indigenous communities.

Over the past year, teams across DC took meaningful steps to honour Indigenous cultures, support Indigenous students, and contribute to the broader goals of reconciliation and decolonization in education.

Key highlights from the year include:

Suswaaning Endaajig - First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC)

Focused on four key areas: cultural education and teachings, campus-wide events and engagement, education and awareness across campus, and cross-campus partnerships. Activities included Elder-led teachings and Sharing Circles on Residential Schools and reconciliation. They hosted campus-wide events, partnered with the Centre for Teaching and Learning on faculty development, collaborated with community partners to provide Traditional Healing services, and amplified Indigenous authors and resources online.

Embedding Indigenous perspectives in teaching and learning

Introduced the Braiding Learning Framework, designed to integrate and harmonize various pedagogical practices, fostering an inclusive, engaging, and empowering learning environment for all.

Celebrating Indigenous creativity and ways of knowing

Installed an Indigenous student artist's painting of the 13 Moons in prominent locations on the Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

Amplified Indigenous stories through social media and our digital content collection.

Advancing Indigenous-led and Indigenous-informed research

Hosted training on the First Nations Principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) through the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Featured a presentation on Indigenous community-based research as part of the Voices of Impact speaker series.

T4 2025 - Released in ADP Work Force Now - Announcements, February 24, 2026

T4's for 2025 are available for all employees via ADP Work Force Now online platform. Please ensure you have registered with Work Force Now to access T4's and Pay Statements click the following link and enter User ID and Password : https://workforcenow.adp.com 

Once logged in, select Myself, Pay, Pay & Tax Statements from the menu bar.

Your T4 will appear at the top right of the screen under the section titled, Tax Statements.

Click on View Statement. Security Checkpoint will prompt you to select how to receive your security code.

Enter the verification code provided by Security Checkpoint and click on Submit Code.

Your T4 will appear. You can now save and/or print.

If you have concerns, please reach out via email payrolldepartment@durhamcollege.ca

Please Note: many employees work multiple contracts and may be paid through different payroll business numbers, resulting in multiple tax statements; please ensure you retrieve all your T4's.

Annual tax statements and pay statement will be available to you on this web site for three years. If you wish to retain your statement for a longer period, please print or save the electronic copy.

Additional Information: If you are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency “My Account" your T4 will update in “My Account". Login to your CRA account, under Tax information slips (T4 and more).

You can access historical T4's in your CRA account, from any employer.

Power Hour: Safety and Empowerment Through Yoga, Community and Education - Announcements, February 24, 2026

Approval Status Pending

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Join Durham Regional Police Services for Power Hour: Safety and Empowerment Through Yoga, Community and Education. This free event aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence, connect students with campus and community resources, and bring our community together for a day of yoga and gentle movement.

When: Monday, February 23, 2026

Who: Women, Women-Identifying, Non-Binary, & Allies – Open to Durham College and Ontario Tech University staff, students, and faculty.

Where: G213 Dining Hall

Tabling Engagement: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Yoga Session 1: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Yoga Session 2: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Registration Form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=pKe7SUtCcECnDohundfK75vDUsohDAxOpor_8aUGDCNUNU9RTTM1TVZCVE5YTk9STUZMUFU3NU1MRy4u&route=shorturl

Camryn Wood, Romell Russell named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Camryn Wood of the women's basketball team and Romell Russell of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending February 15, 2026.

Wood, a Mechanical Techniques - Plumbing student, had a defining week in the paint. She grabbed a season-high 17 rebounds on Wednesday against the Georgian Grizzlies, her first double-digit rebounding performance of the season. She would enter double-digit territory again only two days later against the George Brown Huskies with 10. In a 67-64 win over Georgian, Wood also picked up a pair of assists while recording five steals and a made three-point shot against George Brown.

Russell, a General Arts & Science student, was consistent across two games last week versus Georgian and George Brown. On Wednesday, Russell tallied a team-leading 20 points, along with three steals, three assists and a pair of rebounds. He again led the team in points in an 81-63 win over George Brown, recording 19 points along with a three assists and three rebounds.

The women's basketball team are on the road for their 2026 OCAA Women's Basketball Championship qualifier, travelling to Etobicoke on Saturday, February 21 for a 6 p.m. tip-off against the Humber Hawks.

The men's basketball team will host the Niagara Knights at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre on Saturday for their 2026 OCAA Men's Basketball Championship qualifier, tipping off at 4 p.m.​

This Week in International Education - Extending Study Permit Workshop - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

It's important that international students maintain valid study permits throughout their studies and obtain co-op work permits if their program includes a mandatory work component. We're hosting a virtual immigration workshop on February 25 at 2:30PM. Students can register HERE (available on Linktree) and attend this Extending Study Permit & Understanding “Maintained Status" workshop. Please help spread the word!

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION – WHITBY CAMPUS - DOORS WILL BE UNACCESSIBLE - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.

What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction

Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.

When: Thursday February 19, 2026 till Monday February 23, 2026

Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible.  Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.

The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):

Don Lovisa Main Entrance

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building by Greenhouse.

Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

Sharing news regarding the passing of Sandi Burns, faculty member, Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

I'm sorry to share with you that Alexandra “Sandi" Burns, a faculty member in the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology, has recently passed away.

Sandi joined Durham College (DC) in the fall of 2020 as a part-time professor, where she taught in the Architectural Technology program, teaching Architectural CAD II and Design Options Evaluation. She was dedicated to her students and consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to their learning, growth, and success.

A tribute to Sandi is available on the Westview Funeral Chapel website. To honour Sandi's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Sandi's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.

Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).

Encourage graduating students to attend Countdown to Grad - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

All 2026 graduating students are invited to attend Countdown to Grad. This is where they can register to graduate and learn all they need to know about resources available to them after Convocation.

Event Details:

Wednesday, March 11, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.

Whitby campus, Don Lovisa Building, atrium

Thursday, March 12, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.

Oshawa campus, Student Services Building (SSB), atrium

Faculty with classes during this time, we hope you will encourage your students to attend if scheduling permits. Attending the event should take approximately 30 minutes and will set students up for success as they prepare for Convocation.

In addition to registering to graduate, students will have the to opportunity to book graduation photos, connect with the Durham College Alumni Association, learn about Career Development supports and chat with recruitment about continued education.

Crave Doughnuts will also be providing our grads with a sweet treat to celebrate!

Students can register for the event​ until Friday, March 6. For more information, contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. 

DC Alumni Association hosts Etiquette Dinner on March 25 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Hosted by the DC Alumni Association, the annual Etiquette Dinner invites alumni and students to enjoy a meal at Bistro '67 while learning business dining etiquette tips.​ Etiquette consultant Susy Fossati will conduct a practical lab where guests will learn how to navigate a three-course meal through to dessert and will leave fully equipped with the skills to make a lasting impression at any dining occasion.

Event Details:

Wednesday, March 25, 6 to 9 p.m.

Bistro '67

Tickets: $25

Encourage your students to join this memorable dining experience! Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. ​

Puppy Yoga is back on March 11th & 12th - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.​​

The most wholesome workout of the semester is BACK! 🐶🧘‍♀️​

Puppy Yoga

Day One – March 11

11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Day Two – March 12

10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Registration opens on Wednesday, February 25 at 12 p.m. 

Spots are limited, so to secure your mat, a $5 refundable deposit is required for students and will be charged to your account. The charge will be removed once attendance is taken and you’ve attended your session. If you’re unable to attend and don’t cancel ahead of time, the deposit will be forfeited. Staff is also welcome to take part in Puppy Yoga. 

To register after February 25, visit https://forms.office.com/r/Npg6MUAetM.​

February Payday Lottery Winner: Congratulations, Christine! - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Adriana Hajdari, Advancement Data and Analytics Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations. 

🎉 Congratulations, Christine Baily! 🎉  

We're excited to announce that Christine Baily is this month's Payday Lottery Winner! Christine has won a total of $1,055, with the other half of funds collected this month directed to the Student Experience Fund.   

Thank you to everyone who gives back to Durham College through the Payday Lottery. Your contributions directly support the purchase of new and upgraded equipment, helping our students become career-ready, equipped with skills and experience that align with industry demands and contribute to our local and global communities.  

Payday Lottery is organized by Advancement and Alumni Relations. Learn more about the Payday Lottery and how to participate.   

Stay tuned for next month's draw, and good luck! 

National Comfy Day Flash Sale at the Campus stores - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​Get ready to celebrate comfort in style!

On Friday, February 20, our Campus Stores are hosting a one-of-a-kind Flash Sale for National Comfy Day.

✨ Enjoy 30% OFF all casual comfort styles ✨

🕒 Sale Times:

Oshawa Store: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Whitby Store: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (extended time to make up for the daily lunch closure from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

This is the perfect chance to grab your favourite cozy essentials at an amazing price, but only for a few hours!

📍 In-store event only

⏳ No holds. No online orders. Limited time.

Make sure you stop by on Friday between 12 PM – 2 PM and take advantage of this comfy deal. We can’t wait to see you there!

Upcoming change: Photo & Media Database Access Moving to VPN - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Communications and Marketing. Please direct any questions to Justin Christie, Manager, Digital Media.

To enhance the security of our digital assets, effective Friday, February 20, access to Durham College's Photo and Media databases will transition to VPN-only access when connecting off campus. This change ensures our digital photo and video assets remain protected while continuing to support the college's work. After this date:

On‑campus users will continue to access the databases normally, with no VPN required.

Off‑campus users will need to connect to VPN before accessing the photo and media repositories. Note: All DC employees should have VPN access. If you are having trouble connecting to the VPN, please email servicedesk@dc-ot.ca for assistance.

Thank you for helping us maintain a secure and reliable digital environment.

Recognizing Human Trafficking Awareness Day, February 22 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.  

This Sunday, February 22 is Human Trafficking Awareness Day.  

Human trafficking involves recruiting, moving, or holding victims to exploit them for profit, usually for sexual reasons or forced labour. Traffickers can control and pressure victims by force or through threats, including mental and emotional abuse and manipulation. In 2024, the Durham Regional Police Services' Human Trafficking Unit investigated 249 incidents involving elements of human trafficking. According to Statistics Canada's 2024 report on Trafficking in persons in Canada, the vast majority (93%) of identified victims of police-reported human trafficking were women and girls, two-thirds of whom were younger than 25. This tells us that human trafficking in Canada is a matter of gender-based violence.  

Every year, Human Trafficking Awareness Day provides us with an opportunity to educate ourselves about this issue. Raising awareness also helps us recognize the signs of human trafficking—so that we can be better prepared to identify potential victims and end this ongoing crisis. Educational institutions play an important role in protecting their students from exploitation and human trafficking. We also have unique opportunities to help educate students about their rights in Canada, what resources are available to them, and how to identify and safely respond to potential situations of exploitation, abuse and trafficking. This work can help prevent an exploitative situation from happening in the first place. 

By working together, we can make a difference both here in Durham, and around the world. You can join us in raising awareness of and fighting against human trafficking by:  

Familiarizing yourself with relevant ICE resources on Emergency Preparedness and Employee Wellness.  Visit the OEDI website for Human Rights and Sexual Violence supports and resources, relevant Community Resources, as well as the recently updated Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence policy. 

Reporting any suspicious activity you may witness related to human trafficking by calling the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.  

Learning more about governmental resources to help and protect victims of human trafficking. 

Register now to participate at Spring Open House – Saturday, March 28 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Evan Arsenault, Event Coordinator, Communications and Marketing.

Durham College's Spring Open House is set for Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses and we need your energy and enthusiasm to help showcase DC to prospective students and families!

Spring Open House is a key recruitment event where guests can explore our campuses, meet program representatives, learn about student services, and imagine themselves starting their academic journey at DC.

Why your participation matters:

Help guests feel welcome and informed as they explore the 145+ career-focused programs we offer at DC.

Share your insights into campus life, facilities, support services, and the opportunities that make DC a compelling choice.

Promote specific program highlights or experiences that inspire confidence in prospective students.

Participant roles include:

Welcoming guests and answering questions

Tour guide support

General event assistance

Apply Now room support

If you're not already representing your Faculty or department at the event, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues across DC and engage directly with future students.

If you are interested in participating, register online by Wednesday, March 11

We appreciate your support and look forward to showcasing the best of Durham College together!

March Break Program Showcase and Tours happening March 16–20 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment, Communications and Marketing. Please direct questions to Nicole Davidson, Senior Recruitment Strategist, Communications and Marketing.

Help us spread the word about our upcoming March Break Program Showcase and Tours.

Prospective students and applicants are invited to join us from March 16 to 20 to explore programs, tour facilities and experience selected programs in a hands-on environment at both our Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

This event is designed for high school students, career changers, and anyone considering post-secondary education, including current DC students exploring a second program or continuing their studies. We ask that you share this opportunity with anyone considering their education options. Whether it's a neighbour's teenager, a friend considering a career change, or a family member looking at their next step, this event can help them see what makes DC the Best. Decision. Ever.

The March Break Program Showcase is an opportunityfor prospective students to:

Explore programs across eight faculties at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses

Experience hands-on learning through lab demonstrations and interactive activities

Meet program experts who can answer your questions

Tour our state-of-the-art facilities, including shops, labs, and learning spaces

Connect with student recruitment to learn about services that support your transition to college

Discover the career pathways that could shape your future

Registration is now open and full details are available on our website​. Help us connect with prospective students and show them how DC can transform their lives and build their careers.​

Veronika Cajovska, Desson Spencer named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Veronika Cavojska of the women's volleyball team and Desson Spencer of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending February 22, 2026.

Cavojska, a 911 Emergency & Call Centre Communications student, delivered one of her strongest performances of the season in Durham's 3-1 quarter-final win over the Cambrian Shield. She recorded seven kills on a .235 hitting percentage, marking her second-highest kill total of the year. Cavojska also added one service ace, ten digs — her seventh double-digit dig performance this season, and two solo blocks, finishing the match with 10.0 points.

Spencer, a Trades Fundamentals student, contributed to a strong start to the postseason in Durham's 84-59 championship qualifier victory over the Niagara Knights. He posted a season-high 14 points and pulled down a team-leading 15 rebounds to record a double-double, tying his season-best on the boards. Spencer also contributed one assist and one steal while shooting an efficient 5-for-8 from the field.

The women's volleyball team are off to the semifinals at the 2026 OCAA Women's Volleyball Championship against the St. Clair Saints next weekend. Date and time is still to be determined.

The men's basketball team advance to the quarter-final round of the 2026 OCAA Men's Basketball Championship. They will travel to Etobicoke to take on the Humber Hawks. Date and time is still to be determined.​

Campus Safety Reminders during Campus Safety Week - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of the Office of Campus Safety.

As Durham College (DC) recognizes Campus Safety Week February 23 to 27, it is an opportunity to reflect on and reinforce the ways we support a safe and secure environment for all members of our community.

At DC, safety is a shared responsibility, and a comprehensive range of services and protocols are in place to support students, employees, and visitors across our campuses.

Campus safety services

To promote a safe campus environment, Campus Security provides:

24/7 patrols

Code Blue stations located outside on campus and connect directly to Security staff

Campus Walk teams who will accompany you to your car or other campus locations on request during evening hours.

Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) which is available when? to help address medical and other urgent needs.

Emergency notifications

Critical information about active threats or emergency situations are communicated through the Alertus Emergency Notification System. Notices may be sent through:

AlertAware mobile app

Alertus beacons

desktop alerts

PA announcements

digital signage

email

Employees are encouraged to download the Alertus App and register to receive notifications on their mobile devices.

Reporting threats

We also want to remind all employees of the correct steps to take if you receive a threatening email or similar electronic safety concern:

Do not respond – do not reply, forward, delete or engage with the sender, and do not open links or attachments.

Preserve the message – keep it exactly as received, including the date and time.

Report immediately – notify your manager and Campus Security at xxxxx, as soon as possible.

Do not investigate – do not analyze the threat or discuss it with others unless directed by safety officials.

Emergency preparedness

Colour-coded emergency information posters are displayed throughout campus buildings in key locations. In addition, red “emergency" flipbooks can be found in all departmental offices. Please take time to familiarize yourself with the safety practices outlined in them.

Thank you for your continued commitment to safety. To learn more about campus safety services and emergency procedures, please visit the Campus Safety web page.

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION – WHITBY CAMPUS - DOORS WILL BE UNACCESSIBLE - Announcements, February 24, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.

What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction

Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.

When:  Monday February 23, 2026 till Wednesday February 25, 2025

Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible.  Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.

The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):

Don Lovisa Main Entrance

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving

Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building.

Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

(Same map as provided in previous communication.)

Silent Voices documentary screening – Friday, March 6 - Announcements, February 24, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Please direct questions to Crystal Garvey,​ Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences.

Join us for a special screening of Silent Voices at Durham College (DC)!

Date: Friday, March 6

Time: Doors open at 12:30 p.m. | Screening at 1 p.m.

Location: Center for Innovation and Research (CIR) 102

Enjoy food, community connection, and a thought-provoking documentary on mental health within Black communities, highlighting lived experiences of racism and systemic inequities. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion.

All staff and students from DC and Ontario Tech University are welcome.

This event is especially valuable for:

Second-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students (replacing a virtual simulation in their mental health course; reflective discussion and course credit included)

Students in front-line healthcare and community service programs (certificate of participation provided)

About the Film:

Originally recorded during Black Mental Health Week 2022, Silent Voices uses unfiltered narratives to increase understanding, support, and advocacy in healthcare. Critically acclaimed, it has won Best Documentary at both the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival and the Canadian Black Screen Awards.

Registration is required. Reserve your spot online.

Reminder: FIRST LEGO League Provincial Championship at Durham College - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​Durham College is proud to host the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Ontario Provincial Championship on our Oshawa campus on Saturday, January 31, and Sunday, February 1, 2026.

Over 400 students, ages nine to 14, will compete in exciting LEGO robotics challenges, joined by their families, teachers, and coaches. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the creativity, innovation, and energy of these young STEM enthusiasts right here on campus.

We encourage you to come by, watch the competition, and cheer on these inspiring students. Whether you stop in for a few minutes or spend the day, your support will make the event even more memorable for the participants.

There are still opportunities to volunteer at the event. Find more information here.

Learn more about the event. We hope to see you there!

This Week in International Education - A Day in Durham College - Announcements, January 28, 2026

[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

On Monday, January 19, we welcomed 15 high school students from Brazil who visited with one of our partner agents as part of the “A Day in Durham College" experience. The students spent the day on the Oshawa campus participating in a variety of activities designed to showcase what Durham College has to offer. This visit allowed them to explore campus life, learn about our academic programs, and gain firsthand insight into what it means to be part of the Durham College community.

This is what our future international students Samiir and Amisha had to say after attending the Program Information Night this week:

"From the moment we arrived, the experience was very helpful. The staff at the International table and the other tables had all the information we needed and took the time to explain everything clearly. The application process was made simple and stress-free, and we were able to apply quickly and with confidence. Attending a program information night really helped us understand our options and made a big difference in our decision. We would definitely recommend joining a program information night if you're in Canada."

We are hosting a Global Café - Roommate Mixer session this Thursday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in the Fireside Room within the DCSA building. This session is designed to help our students find compatible roommates and housing options. Together, we will discover strategies for an affordable housing and have conversations around housing resources and money saving techniques. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. ​

December Payday Lottery Winner: Congratulations, Robert! - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Adriana Hajdari, Data and Analytics ​Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations. ​

🎉 Congratulations, Robert Heale! 🎉 

We’re excited to announce that Robert Heale is this month’s Payday Lottery Winner! Robert has won a total of $1,157.50, with the other half of funds collected this month directed to the Student Experience Fund.  

This month we held a bonus draw to thank you for staying with us during the transition from physical ticket draws to an electronic draw system using Rafflebox. Congratulations to our Bonus Draw winners Kayla Goldhawk and Adrienne Rogers! Kayla has won the $100 gift card to Bistro ’67, and Adrienne is the lucky winner of the DC Alumni swag gift bag.​

Thank you to everyone who gives back to Durham College through the Payday Lottery. Your contributions directly support the purchase of new and upgraded equipment, helping our students become career-ready, equipped with skills and experience that align with industry demands and contribute to our local and global communities. 

Payday Lottery is organized by Advancement and Alumni Relations. Learn more about the Payday Lottery and how to participate.  

Stay tuned for next month’s draw, and good luck! ​

Finance Training Sessions on Common Forms - Register for a session - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​Sent on behalf of Human Resources

Upcoming Finance Training Sessions – Common Forms Overview & Refresher

Finance is providing two training opportunities for any staff members who engage with the following forms or processes:

Business Meals & Hospitality

Business Travel & Medical Insurance

Cheque Requisitions

Delegation of Authority

Personal Signing Authority

Expense Report

Approval Processes

Business & Travel Expense Reimbursement Procedures

Exploring Common Issues with Expense Claims and PCard Reconciliations

The training sessions will be in-person at the Oshawa campus. The dates and locations are as follows:

Tuesday, February 10th from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the Athletics Boardroom (G2021)

Thursday March 19th from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the Athletics Boardroom (G2021)

Register here for a session.  Questions can be directed to professionaldevelopment@durhamcollege.ca. 

Celebrating the success of Program Information Nights - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment. Questions can be directed to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects.

Thank you to everyone who played a role in delivering a successful Program Information Night experience for our guests earlier this week. The even showcased the strength of our programs, the enthusiasm of our employees, and our commitment to helping future learners make informed choices about their education and future career.

Across our Oshawa and Whitby campuses, we welcomed more than 1,300 guests, including prospective students, families and supporters and 376 prospective students submitted applications while onsite, reflecting strong interest in DC as their number one choice.

The energy on campus was remarkable, with steady traffic in the application room, and countless positive conversations with our guests.

Our collaboration to host these events plays a critical role in helping students choose DC. As a result of your efforts, our future students felt welcomed, informed and excited, reinforcing that choosing DC can truly be their “Best. Decision. Ever." Whether you were involved in planning, promoting or supporting these events, we appreciate your commitment to showcasing the very best of our college community.

Are you planning an event? DC’s Alumni Association may be able to support! - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. For more information, contact Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer.

As part of its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA) has committed to creating community impact by building meaningful partnerships with alumni, students, faculty and staff, industry, and the broader community.

Through sponsorship, the DCAA is proud to support initiatives that align with or furthers the association's purpose and goals:

Our Purpose

We foster a lifelong sense of belonging through connection, engagement, and shared pride in Durham College.

Goal 1

Strengthen alumni belonging and identity

Goal 2

Support the continued growth of alumni

Goal 3

Mobilize alumni to create community impact

If you're hosting an event that involves students and alumni, and are interested in sponsorship, please review the Application for Sponsorship Request document available on the DC Alumni website or contact Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer. All requests for support are approved by the DCAA Board of Directors.

Commemorating International Holocaust Remembrance Day - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI)

The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion invites the Durham College (DC) community to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Tuesday, January 27 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Multi-Faith and Quiet Space (JW 101) at the Oshawa campus.

The event is held in collaboration with Durham College's Jewish Students Alliance and the Chabad Jewish Center of Durham Region. Rabbi Tzali Borenstein will join us to share his family history and critical reflections around the Holocaust. There will be a question and answer period and a communal prayer. Kosher refreshments will be served.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly on November 1, 2005, to honour the memory of those who suffered and died during the Holocaust. The date, January 27, marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945. This day provides an opportunity to reflect carefully on the atrocities committed against Jewish people and other oppressed minorities during World War II and to consider their enduring impact.

All DC community members are encouraged to join us in reflecting and honouring the stories and lives of those tragically lost during the Holocaust.

Durham College is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful learning and working environment. Below are some resources to help us learn more about International Holocaust Remembrance Day and our rights and responsibilities to create a campus community free of hate, discrimination and harassment.

The Ontario Human Rights Code

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

2026 Holocaust Remembrance and Education - United Nations

International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust

For mental health and well-being resources and support, visit:

Part-Time Support Staff Pay Adjustment - Announcements, January 28, 2026

Please be advised that in accordance with the December 15, 2025 Kaplan Award CEC- OPSEU - Award.pdf​​​, a 2.5% wage increase for Part-Time support Staff Employees is reflected on today's pay, inclusive of retroactivity for eligible employees.  

Employees are encouraged to review their pay slips and updated pay rates by accessing the ADP WorkForceNow_Employee_Self_Service_Registration.pdf​

The next wage increase for active part time support staff employees will take place February 1, 2026. 

Whitby Services Fair Rescheduled - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please direct any questions to studentdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca. 

Faculty, staff and students are invited to stop by our upcoming Services Fair at the Whitby campus. The Services Fair brings student service areas together in one place, making it easy for you to see what's new, meet the teams behind key supports, and gather resources to enhance your work with students.

Whether you are looking to refresh your knowledge or build connections with campus partners, the Service Fair offers a convenient and worthwhile opportunity.

Whitby Campus:

January 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Student Lounge, Don Lovisa building 

​​ 

Sarah-Jane Laplante, Rashane Smith named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Sarah-Jane Laplante of the women’s basketball team and Rashane Smith of the men’s basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 25, 2026.

Laplante, a Police Foundations student, posted a season-high 25 points and season-high five steals against the Algonquin Wolves on Friday evening. In addition to accounting for 57% of Durham’s offence on the night, Laplante grabbed three defensive rebounds and generated an assist. Laplante helped lead the charge in the fourth quarter, scoring eight of 12 points as the team looked to close the gap at home.

Smith, a Fitness & Health Promotion student, was a key piece in a Durham Lords offence that scored a combined 212 points in under 24 hours against the Algonquin Wolves and La Cité Coyotes over the weekend. On Saturday in particular, Smith was an efficient shooter going 7-for-9 in a double-double performance with 15 points and 12 rebounds. Apart from hitting buckets and grabbing boards all weekend, Smith was all over the floor, recording a total of seven assists, four steals and two blocks.

The basketball teams are back in action in North York on Tuesday, January 27 as the Lords take on the Seneca Sting at 6/8 p.m.

​

Recognize alumni guest speakers with a thank-you gift - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Each year, Durham College (DC) alumni return to the campus to share their industry experience and career advice with our students. There is nothing more motivating to a student than to see a glimpse of what their future may hold after graduation.

If you're inviting DC grads to the classroom as guest speakers, we'd love to say thank you to them with a #DCAlumni gift!

To ensure your guests are recognized as part of the Alumni Guest Speaker program, fill out this quick online form. Please provide the Advancement and Alumni Relations team a minimum of five days in order to arrange delivery of the gift.

Two Durham College Baseball Alumni Named Among Canada’s Most Influential in the Game - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Two former Durham College men's baseball players have carved out careers that now stretch far beyond the diamond in Oshawa. In 2026, Josh Krstulovich and Chris Kemlo were both named to Bob Elliott's Most Influential Canadians in Baseball, a recognition that reflects years of work developing, identifying and advocating for elite talent across North America.

Their paths to this distinction followed different timelines, but both included a stop with the Durham Lords baseball program.

Krstulovich's Durham College playing career spanned the 2018 and 2019 seasons. A graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Brampton, he arrived as a versatile athlete capable of contributing both on the mound and at first base.

Before joining the Chicago White Sox organization, Krstulovich served as a player/scout liaison with the Williamsport Crosscutters. His move into scouting soon paid dividends.

One of his most notable draft successes came when he drafted and signed right-handed pitcher Max Banks out of the University of Washington.

Years before Krstulovich's time in green and gold, Chris Kemlo was anchoring the Lords' pitching staff. An Oshawa native and graduate of R.S. McLaughlin CVI, Kemlo pitched for Durham College during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

His playing career included a CIBA Gold medal in 2011 and a fourth-place finish at nationals in 2012, accomplishments that laid the foundation for a future built around evaluating and developing pitching talent.

Kemlo's influence has been felt most strongly through the professional draft. In 2020, he selected outfielder Owen Caissie from the FieldHouse Pirates in the second round. Caissie later joined elite company by winning the Canadian Baseball Network's top hitter in the minors award, an honour previously earned by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Brett Lawrie and multiple-time winner Tyler O'Neill.

While Krstulovich and Kemlo took different routes after Durham College, their inclusion on Bob Elliott's 2026 list underscores the same truth: the impact of Durham College baseball extends well beyond wins and losses. From scouting rooms to draft calls, both alumni have played a direct role in shaping the next generation of the game in Canada and beyond.​

Reminder for new employees hired in 2025:  Have all legislated trainings been completed? - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources.

This is a reminder announcement for new employees who started with DC in 2025.  

We kindly ask that you confirm all five mandatory trainings were completed upon hire.  You can do this by reviewing your training certificates in Brightspace.  For information on where to locate certificates, visit the mandatory training page on ICE.

If you do not have a record of all five legislated training certificates, please prioritize completing them as soon as possible.  These include:

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act for Workers: Integrated Standards and Customer Service

Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Workplace Violence and Harassment Prevention

Responding to Sexual Violence on Campus

These trainings are not just best practices—they are mandated by provincial legislation, helping to ensure we meet our legal obligations under acts such as the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

Questions can be directed to your manager or to professionaldevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.

Thank you for helping us maintain a workplace that is safe, inclusive, and compliant with Ontario's legislative requirements.

Academic Integrity Awareness Day – Wednesday, February 4 (10am to 2pm at both campuses) - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Academic Integrity Committee. Please direct any questions to the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL@durhamcollege.ca).

Academic Integrity Awareness Day – Wednesday, February 4 (10am to 2pm at both campuses)

The Academic Integrity Committee has partnered with DCSA to host an Academic Integrity Awareness Day on Wednesday, February 4 from 10am to 2pm. Events will be held in The Pit (Oshawa) and the Don Lovisa Building Atrium (Whitby). There will be activities, information sharing, and giveaways. Students can also enter the Academic Integrity Awareness Contest for a chance to win one of four- $25 gift cards to the Bookstore.

Creating a culture of academic integrity at DC involves the entire campus community and we invite you to engage in one or more of the following ways:

visit the CTL Academic Integrity page to access resources available to you

share the Academic Integrity Learning Resources with your students and encourage them to enter the digital scavenger hunt contest (contest runs from January 28 to February 5) for a chance to win a Bookstore gift card  

share your story about academic integrity or what academic integrity means to you on our Padlet. 

encourage your students to complete the Academic Integrity learning module in DC Connect and reflect on what academic integrity means to them.   

Academic integrity is crucial in supporting the value and credibility of the education DC delivers and the credentials we confer. It fosters a culture of honesty, respect and responsibility, building trust among students, faculty, and the broader community. A positive culture of academic integrity means teaching and learning in an environment where honesty is valued, supporting students in the development of strong ethical foundations for their future endeavours. 

Help your students get ready for Job Fair 2026! - Announcements, January 28, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please direct any questions to careerdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca. 

Durham College's (DC) Job Fair is coming up, and we're hosting several events with Career Development coaches who can answer students' questions and help them make a great first impression with employers. All sessions are free and available for DC students and alumni to attend. To learn more about the events and to register, they can visit the Hired Portal.

Date Time Event Location

Thursday, January 29 3:30 to 5 p.m. Pitch Perfect: Mastering Your Elevator Pitch in Real-Time               Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa

Monday, February 2 2 to 3 p.m. Networking as a DC student Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa

Tuesday, February 3 10 to 11 a.m. Resumés − The Employers' Perspective Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa

Tuesday, February 3 1 to 2:30 p.m. Pitch Perfect: Mastering Your Elevator Pitch in Real-Time               Room 2-2, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby

Monday, February 9 2 to 3 p.m. Networking as a DC student Room 11-08, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby

Tuesday, February 10 10 to 11 a.m. Resumés − The Employers' Perspective Room 2-2, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby

The Durham College and Ontario Tech University Job Fair will be held at the Oshawa Campus on Thursday, February 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre in Gyms 3, 4 and 5.

The Durham College Job Fair will be held on Thursday, February 12 in the Don Lovisa Building (Atrium and Hallway) from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A list of employers who are attending is available online. 

Please share this information with your students and encourage them to keep up-to-date on Job Fair 2026 by following @GetHiredDC on Instagram, using #GetHiredDC on social media or visiting the Hired Portal.

Register for Data Privacy Day Talk: Security and Privacy Breaches - January 28, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy and Assistant to the President.

In recognition of Data Privacy Day on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, you are invited to a focused 30‑minute session exploring the essentials of security and privacy breaches—what they are, how they happen, and the steps you can take to respond effectively. Join us online at 1:00 p.m. for an informative and practical discussion designed to strengthen your privacy awareness.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator

Complete the Privacy Awareness Quiz to Win a $50 Oshawa Centre Gift Card - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is shared on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governacne and Privacy and Assistant to the Preisdent.

In celebration of Data Privacy Day on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, we invite you to put your privacy knowledge to the test by completing our online privacy awareness quiz. Submit your entry by 4:30 p.m. on January 28 for a chance to be included in an optional draw for a $50 Oshawa Centre gift card

Access the quiz here: Celebrating Data Privacy Month at Durham College - January 2026 – Fill out form

SCWI now referred to as Dual Credits - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Meagan Quesnelle, Director, Dual Credits and Academic Upgrading, Faculty of Liberal Studies.

An important update is being made to how the School College Work Initiative (SCWI) is referred to at Durham College (DC).

Effective immediately, all references to “School College Work Initiative" or “SCWI" should be replaced with Dual Credits in all internal and external communications. This change reflects a provincial shift toward using Dual Credits as the standard name for the program across Ontario. This is a name change only. The program continues to operate as usual, and DC remains fully committed to supporting students through Dual Credit opportunities that enable high school students to earn both secondary and postsecondary credits.

What this means for employees:

Update all references in your communications, documents, presentations, email templates, and shared resources.

When speaking with partners, secondary school contacts, or students, use Dual Credits instead of SCWI.

If you maintain any public-facing content (such as websites, brochures, or forms), please plan to update materials to remove SCWI references and replace them with Dual Credits.

Th​ank you for your attention and cooperation. If you have questions about wording updates or require revised templates, please contact Meagan Quesnelle or Victoria Kee.

Learn about DC and OTU’s shared Campus Master Plan - Announcements, January 28, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.

Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University (OTU) invite you to explore the draft of our Campus Master Plan (CMP), the long-term vision for our shared Oshawa campus.

Check out the website: Read the draft CMP, see the guiding principles, and watch the urban planning team speak to the vision. You can also share feedback or ask questions online.

Drop by on campus: Explore interactive displays, ask questions, and share your ideas about the future of our campus. Join us in The PIT Wednesday, February 4 from 2 to 4 p.m.

The CMP is more than a planning document; it reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence, student experience, research, sustainability, and community connection. Visit the website to see how the plan will guide future decisions about campus spaces and infrastructure, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our institutions, students, and community.

What makes this Plan special is the collaboration behind it. DC and OTU share more than buildings — we share a vision for innovation, learning, and impact. Together, we're building a campus that's vibrant, inclusive, and ready for the future.

Upcoming Nutrition Seminar: 7 Nutrition Strategies to Start Your Year Strong - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources, in collaboration with the Athletics Team

Staff and students are invited to join the upcoming nutrition seminar with holistic nutritionist, Sylvia Emmory, RHN, RNCP, ROHP.

Reset & Recharge: 7 Nutrition Strategies to Start Your Year Strong 

Kick off the New Year feeling energized and focused. This seminar will explore practical strategies, with an emphasis on small, sustainable changes. The session will share practical strategies and explore 10 different nutrient-rich foods that can be easily incorporated into a daily routine—boosting energy, supporting health, and setting the tone for an intentional year.   

Thursday, January 29th from 1 – 2 p.m.​

Register here and a link will be provided to join this virtual seminar. 

This Week in International Education - Co-op Work Permit - Announcements, January 21, 2026

[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

For this month, our immigration workshop will focus on applying for a co-op work permit. If an international student is unsure whether they need a co-op work permit for their program, please encourage them to join our workshop to learn the ins and outs of applying for this permit from within Canada. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

New Artificial Intelligence (AI) Courses are Now Available at Professional and Part-Time Learning (PPL) - Announcements, January 21, 2026

As Artificial Intelligence continues to redefine the global professional landscape, staying proficient in these emerging technologies is essential for maintaining a competitive advantage. To support your professional development, Professional & Part-Time Learning (PPL) is pleased to announce our upcoming 7-week online AI certificate courses beginning this January.

Agentic AI: No-Code Solutions for Agents: Learn to architect and deploy autonomous AI agents tailored to support your specific workflows, entirely without the need for programming knowledge.

AI Prompt Engineering: Develop the specialized communication skills required to effectively direct generative AI tools, ensuring high-quality, actionable outputs.

Duration: 7 weeks

Format: Fully Online

Start Date: January 2026

Registration is now open. You can click here to learn more: https://durhamcollege.ca/academic-faculties/professional-and-part-time-learning/programs-and-courses/artificial-intelligence-courses

Data Privacy Day Activities - January 28, 2026 - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Data Privacy Planning Team. If you have any questions, reach out to us at privacy@durhamcollege.ca.

Please share this message with your teams as appropriate.

Durham College (DC) is proud to recognize the 19th anniversary of Data Privacy Day in Canada — an annual opportunity to promote awareness about the importance of privacy and the protection of personal information. This year's theme, “You have the power to take charge of your data," reflects our shared responsibility to safeguard the information we handle. DC is marking the occasion with several activities designed to support learning and engagement.

Privacy Awareness Quiz

Employees are invited to test their knowledge by completing our privacy awareness quiz. Entries submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, will be entered into a draw for a $50 Oshawa Centre gift card.

Privacy Awareness Booth

On January 28, visit our privacy awareness booth in The PIT at the Oshawa Campus between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Engage in interactive activities designed to help you better understand how to take charge of your personal data. This booth is supported by the Centre for Cybersecurity.

Privacy in Practice Series

On January 28 at 1 p.m., employees are invited to attend the next session in our Privacy in Practice series. This 30-minute presentation will explore the differences between security and privacy breaches, introduce the College's Privacy Breach Protocol, and provide guidance on what to do if a breach is suspected.  Register for this session at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator

Tell your students to register for Pathways Fair, February 10-11 - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message i​s being shared on behalf of Transfer Services.

Durham College (DC) students can learn how to take their education even further at our Pathways Fair.

Students are invited to join us on Tuesday, February 10 in Whitby (Don Lovisa Building, Central Hall) and Wednesday, February 11 in Oshawa (Gordon Willey Building, The Pit/South Wing Hall) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to connect with post-secondary institutions from across Ontario, Canada and beyond.

If your students are eager to continue their studies, invite them to register for the event today! By attending, students will learn about the many options that await them after graduation, and how their DC education can give them a head start on their next credential.

Please direct questions to pathways@durhamcollege.ca. ​

Attend a seminar to learn about new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.

On January 1, 2026, Homewood Health officially became Durham College's (DC) new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, replacing TELUS Health.

Over the next two months, Homewood Health will offer virtual information seminars for DC employees and managers. These sessions will provide an overview of the online platform, how individuals can access service, and what services and resources are available to full-time employees and eligible dependants.

Employee sessions

Friday, January 30, 1 to 1:45 p.m.

Wednesday, February 25, 12 to 12:45 p.m.

Register here for an employee session.

Manager sessions

Monday, January 19, 1 to 2 p.m.

Monday, February 9, 2 to 3 p.m.

These sessions are only available to Administrative staff. Register here.

Learn more on the EFAP ICE page

Full-time employees are encouraged to learn more about the services available to them on the dedicated EFAP page on ICE.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Kelly Doyle at Kelly.doyle@durhamcollege.ca.

Program Information Nights are almost here - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message is being sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment. Questions can be directed to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects.

There is still time to support prospective students by encouraging them to register for Durham College's (DC) Program Information Nights taking place next week at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

Program Information Nights offer future or current students a chance to learn about DC's programs, services and learning environment. Attendees will be able to:

Meet admissions and student recruitment representatives, speak with faculty, and learn more about DC's 145+ full-time programs and wide range of part-time options.

Apply on-site at our application workshop, with the $150 application fee waived, and pick up some DC swag.

Connect with student services to discover the supports available to help students succeed.

Take a guided campus tour and experience all that DC has to offer.

Be entered for a chance to win a $5,000 tuition credit.

Oshawa Campus

Gordon Willey Building, South Wing Entrance

Tuesday, January 20

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Whitby Campus

Don Lovisa Building, Atrium

Wednesday, January 21

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Help prospective students take the next step! Share the registration link with individuals considering post-secondary education, including friends, family members and community contacts. Your support helps future students make informed decisions and experience what DC has to offer.

Durham College on-campus classes, operations and activities cancelled as of 11 a.m., Thursday, January 15, due to inclement weather - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of the Emergency Management Response Team.

As a result of Environment Canada upgrading its weather alert for our region to the orange level, Durham College (DC) in-person classes, including Professional and Part-Time Learning, and campus operations will be cancelled as of 11 a.m. today. Remote and online classes will continue as scheduled. Regular in-person operations will resume on Friday, January 16, unless otherwise communicated.

Students and employees who are currently on campus are encouraged to leave any time before 11 a.m., except those deemed essential service employees. Please use caution when travelling.

Students should check DC Connect for specific course updates from their faculty member. Students who are on clinical and work placements should follow their employer's direction. ​

Employees should check with their managers regarding remote work expectations.

While campus facilities, including the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, Libraries, Bistro '67 and the DC Spa will be closed, the Campus Fieldhouse and Ice Centre will remain open. The Fieldhouse and Ice Centre follow closure decisions made by the City of Oshawa. Some food services will also remain open.

Should further updates impact services, operations, or class delivery for students and employees, DC will advise the campus community through email, social media, mobile app, and our campus status website.

Announcing Banimibo-Ofori Thomas as new Environmental, Occupational Health & Safety Officer - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​​This message​​ is being shared on behalf of Kevin Maloney, Manager, Risk Management.

I am pleased to announce that Banimibo-Ofori Thomas (Bani) will be joining Durham College as our new Environmental, Occupational Health & Safety Officer, effective Monday, January 19.

Bani brings over 15 years of experience in environmental management and occupational health and safety leadership across diverse sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas. Her most recent role as Health & Safety Officer at Canada Post Corporation involved leading organizational risk assessments, implementing safety programs, and delivering ergonomic training to enhance workplace safety awareness. Prior to that, she served as Senior Environmental, Health & Safety Advisor/Auditor in the oil and gas industry, where she supported ISO certifications, conducted audits, and managed hazardous waste compliance.

Bani holds a Master of Science in Environmental Management, a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Chemistry and Petrochemical Technology, has her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, and is currently preparing for her Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) certification.

Please join me in congratulating Bani on her new role and welcoming her to Durham College.

2026-2027 FT Faculty Professional Development Leave - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice-President, Human Resources and Equity. Please direct inquiries to Kelly Doyle​, Director, Organizational Effectiveness. 

Human Resources is accepting applications to the Faculty Professional Development Leave for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The full-time Academic Staff Collective Agreement has a provision under Article 20, along with the College's Professional Development Leave – Academic policy, that full-time faculty are given the opportunity by the College to pursue College-approved professional development activities outside the College through further academic or technical studies or in industry where such activities will enhance the ability of the employee upon return to the College to fulfill professional responsibilities.

To learn more about the Leave, and to access the application form and related documents, visit Faculty PD Leave.

Applications are due by email to Human Resources at ProfessionalDevelopment@durhamcollege.ca by 4 p.m. on February 20, 2026. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application no later than March 31, 2026.

Please reach out to Kelly Doyle if you have any questions.

Group Fitness - Winter Term - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​FREE Group Fitness returns to the CRWC on Monday, January 19. Classes range from Pilates to yoga, and spin, as well as a new women's only Belly Dance class on Fridays. For more information, visit our website and learn how to reserve your spot.

Jessie Buck, Jonas Felix named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Jessie​ Buck of the women's volleyball team and Jonas Felix of the men's volleyball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 18, 2026.

Buck, an Architectural Technology student, was a key reason that the Lords swept through the weekend with wins on back-to-back days against Georgian and Canadore. Across two matches, Buck registered 21 kills and 46 total attempts for an impressive .615 hitting percentage with a team-high six service aces, seven digs and two solo blocks. Buck finished the weekend tied for the team-high in points with 29.0 over eight sets played.

Felix, an Accounting - Business student, had a very strong weekend and contributed all over the court. In two matches, Felix recorded 18 kills on 58 total attempts and four service aces for a team-high 22.0 points. He was also reliable in the back court, leading the team with a total of 23 digs across seven sets.

The volleyball teams are back in action on home court against the Seneca Sting on Wednesday, January 28 at 6/8 p.m.

Upcoming Privacy in Practice Session: Security and Privacy Breaches - Announcements, January 21, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy:​

In celebration of Data Privacy Day, we are offering the next session in Privacy in Practice series, which is open to all employees.

What: Privacy in Practice: Security and Privacy Breaches (virtual session)

When: January 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

Description: This 30-minute talk will explore the differences between security and privacy breaches and highlight what to do if a breach is suspected.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator

Battle For The Belt Postponed - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

The annual varsity Esports Battle for the Belt competition between Durham College and Ontario Tech scheduled for Monday, January 26 has been postponed, with a new esports event set to take its place on campus that day.

In partnership with the Durham College Student Association and the Ontario Tech Student Union, a drop-in EA Sports FC 26 King of the Hill-style event will be held from 1-4 p.m. at the DCSA Student Centre's Esports Arena.

The King of the Hill format will see players compete head-to-head, with the winner staying on to defend their spot on the throne. Each consecutive win brings additional prizes, rewarding players who can string together multiple victories throughout the afternoon.

No sign-up is required, and participants are encouraged to drop in at any point during the event window to compete. The event is open to all Durham College and Ontario Tech students, whether they are experienced players or simply looking to take part in a fun, competitive campus activity.

Students interested in participating can head directly to the DCSA Esports Arena on January 26 to join the action. More information regarding the rescheduled Battle for the Belt will be shared at a later date.​

Evan Brown Recognized As Canadian National Athlete of the Week - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

After being announced as one of Durham College's two athletes of the week on January 12, the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) named Evan Brown a provincial athlete of the week on January 13, and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) awarded him national player of the week honours on January 14. 

The CCAA Athlete of the Week honour recognizes outstanding individual performances from student-athletes across the country. Awarded weekly during the competitive season, it highlights athletes who excel through in-play results, leadership and sportsmanship while representing their institution at the national level. Being named a CCAA Athlete of the Week places a student-athlete among the top performers in Canadian collegiate sport for that week.

Brown, a Crane Operation, Rigging & Construction Techniques student, threw third rocks at the Mountaineers Bonspiel over the weekend and played a key role in leading the Lords to a 2-1 record and a tie for first-place at the event. Brown combined excellent shot-making with powerful sweeping throughout the weekend, consistently putting his team in strong positions. His positive attitude, competitive drive, and unwavering support of his teammates were instrumental to the team's success, highlighted by an 8-7 victory over the reigning OCAA silver medallists.

Congratulations, Evan!​

Upcoming vacancies on the Durham College Board of Governors - Announcements, January 21, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Lisa Allen, Chair, Board of Governors. Please direct any questions to Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy, Office of the President.

Durham College (DC) is looking for four engaged, skilled, and community-minded individuals to join the Board of Governors starting September 1, 2026, for a three-year term.

The Board of Governors plays a vital role in shaping the college's strategic direction — transforming lives, building careers, and enriching communities. This is a meaningful opportunity for community members to share their skills, give back, and help shape post-secondary education in Durham Region and beyond.​

The Board is seeking candidates with experience in:

Accounting/finance (CPA designation preferred)

Agriculture

Artificial intelligence/information technology

Defense/security

Energy

Community services

Human resources/labour relations

Key responsibilities:

Setting the college's vision, strategic direction, and long-term goals in alignment with government policy, legislation, and community needs.

Providing effective governance and oversight to ensure strong accountability, performance, and achievement of institutional outcomes.

Hiring, supporting, and evaluating the President, and delegating operational authority while holding leadership accountable for results.

Approving the college's annual business plan, budget, and annual report, and monitoring progress against approved goals.

Regularly assessing organizational and board effectiveness and taking corrective action when required.

Participating in six Board meetings per year (in person) and serving on at least one committee; committee meetings are typically held virtually.

Attending key college events, including Convocation and the annual Board retreat.

Two Governors will be appointed directly by the Board, and two will be appointed by the Province of Ontario through the Lieutenant Governor in Council (LGIC) public appointment process. All applications will be considered for both streams. While the Board may recommend candidates for LGIC appointments, the final decision rests with the Ontario provincial government. Current employees of any Ontario college of applied arts and technology are not eligible to apply.

Do you know someone ready to make an impact?

If you know a dynamic, creative individual with a passion for education and community impact, please encourage them to complete the online application and submit a resumé and cover letter by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026. DC welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including those from equity-seeking groups.

The Nominating Committee will hold in-person interviews on Monday, March 16 and Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Oshawa Campus.

Visit www.durhamcollege.ca/bog/vacancies to learn more about this opportunity and the application process.​​

This Week in International Education - Welcome to Canada Winter Wonderland - Announcements, January 13, 2026

​[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

The Welcome to Canada Winter Wonderland session, offered in person, is for all international students starting a DC program in January 2026. Whether they're new to DC, or they're starting another program at DC, this session is for them! We'll meet in the CFCE courtyard at Oshawa campus on January 7 at 4PM to welcome all new international students to DC. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.

For international students who missed the Arrive in Canada virtual workshop on understanding their health insurance, we'll be hosting an in-person international student health insurance drop-in session this Friday between 11AM and 1PM on the main floor of SSB, Oshawa campus. Students will meet with colleagues from DCSA and their health insurance provider StudentVIP for any questions they may have. No pre-registration is needed. Please help spread the word!

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

Sharing sad news of the passing of Cameron Charters, a student from the Faculty of Health Sciences - Announcements, January 13, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.

Dear colleagues,

I am sad to share with you that Cameron Charters, a second-year student in the Fitness and Health Promotion program, passed away on December 11.

In honour of Cameron's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered for 24 hours. Please join me in holding Cameron's family and friends in your thoughts during this extremely difficult time.

If you would like to view the tribute, please visit the Low & Low Limited website.

Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).

To support students, the following resources are available:

I.M. Well Student Assistance Program (24/7): 1-833-398-9040

Good2Talk Helpline (24/7): 1-866-925-5454

Durham College Student Association – Support Hub: DCSA.SupportHub@durhamcollege.ca or Support Hub

Campus Health and Wellness Centre: 905-721-3037, CHWC@durhamcollege.ca or CHWC

First Peoples Indigenous Centre: indigenous@durhamcollege.ca

Access and Support Centre: ASC@durhamcollege.ca

Additional campus and community resources are available online at Are You Ok? ​

DC/OT Staff Pickleball Days – Winter Semester - Announcements, January 13, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Come out to the CRWC and participate in our Durham College/Ontario Tech Staff & Faculty Pickleball Days.

Staff & Faculty Pickleball Days Schedule – Drop in - no sign-up/membership required, equipment provided.

Schedule subject to change throughout the semester. Download the DCOT Campus Rec App for the up-to-date gym schedules.

Lunch Break Pickleball

Jan. 7: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Jan. 14: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Jan. 20: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)

Jan. 28: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Feb. 3: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

Feb. 11: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Feb. 18: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Feb. 25: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

March 4: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

March 11: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5)

March 18: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

March 24: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

March 31: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

April 8: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)

Pickleball Unwind Hour

Jan. 13: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)

Jan. 27: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

Feb. 10: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

Feb. 17: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)

Feb. 24: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

March 10: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

March 17: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)

April 7: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)​

Governance in Practice: Understanding the Role of Internal Governor - Announcements, January 13, 2026

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

Are you interested in learning more about Durham College's Board of Governors — or considering putting your name forward in an upcoming Internal Governor election? Join us for an upcoming virtual session designed for employees who want to better understand the role, responsibilities, and experience of serving as an Internal Governor.

Hear directly from current Internal Governors – Kelly Doyle, Administrative Staff Governor; Melissa Bosomworth, Support Staff Governor; and Nathan Wilson, Academic Staff Governor – as they share insights, experiences, and reflections from their time on the Board, along with an inside look at what the role involves.

The session will also highlight key information about the upcoming Administrative Staff Governor election launching in February 2026.

Wednesday, January 21

11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Virtual

Register now and you will be sent the link to attend.

​Nominate an outstanding graduate for the 2026 Alumni of Distinction Award - Announcements, January 13, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. Please direct any questions to Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

Do you know a Durham College (DC) graduate who is making an impact in their field or creating change in their community? Consider nominating them for the 2026 Alumni of Distinction Award.

Recipients are selected based on professional, community and personal accomplishments and the scope of their impact, as well as their contributions to the advancement of DC. 

The nomination form is available online at durhamcollege.ca/alumniofdistinction and must be submitted to alumni@durhamcollege.ca before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6.

Please note: Active DC employees, active members of DC Board of Governors and DC Alumni Association Board of Directors are not eligible to be nominated for an Alumni of Distinction Award.

Announcing David Ragona as new Director, Reporting and Student Information Systems - Announcements, January 13, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of Keith Bent, Deputy Registrar, Office of the Registrar.

I am pleased to announce that David Ragona will join Durham College's (DC) Office of the Registrar as Director, Reporting and Student Information Systems, effective Monday, January 26.

David brings an extensive background in registrarial operations, student information systems, reporting, and policy implementations, as well as experience in leading operational teams and advancing system and process improvements. Most recently at Mohawk College, David held leadership roles within the Registrar's Office, overseeing registration, records, scheduling, graduation, curriculum management, operations and service enhancement functions, while leading and participating in major system and service modernization initiatives.

David holds a Master of Business Administration, an Honours Bachelor of Commerce, and has completed a number of professional development courses in business analytics, change management, and enterprise design principles.

Please join me in congratulating David on his new role and welcoming him to DC.

Kira Hayes, Evan Brown named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, January 13, 2026

This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Kira Hayes and Evan Brown of the varsity curling teams have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 11, 2026.

Hayes, a Video Production student, competed with determination and poise, delivering a strong all-around performance while supporting her teammates in every end. Her relentless sweeping and clear, effective communication helped keep the team focused and composed through three challenging games. Her positive attitude and steady presence kept her teammates grounded and on track all day long.

Brown, a Crane Operation, Rigging & Construction Techniques student, threw third rocks at the Mountaineers Bonspiel over the weekend and played a key role in leading the Lords to a 2-1 record and a tie for first-place at the event. Brown combined excellent shot-making with powerful sweeping throughout the weekend, consistently putting his team in strong positions. His positive attitude, competitive drive, and unwavering support of his teammates were instrumental to the team’s success, highlighted by an 8-7 victory over the reigning OCAA silver medallists.

The curling teams will spend the month training as they prepare for the 2026 OCAA Curling Championships at the Dixie Curling Centre in Mississauga.​

CTL Compass - Express / January 2026 - Announcements, January 13, 2026

​​This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca. 

The CTL Compass Express is a digital newsletter, shared exclusively on ICE, from the Centre for Teaching & Learning​. Similar to the CTL Compass, the Express is tailored for DC faculty members and academic staff but is delivered as a just-in-time resource throughout the academic year!

Student painting on an easel in an art studio.

Winter Semester ❄️ January 2026

Welcome Back 👋🏼

We hope your holiday break was both restful and rejuvenating. As you step into a new academic semester, celebrate the incredible energy, expertise, and commitment you bring to our learning community. Your efforts make a profound difference in shaping authentic and meaningful learning experiences for our students, and we’re excited to continue working together to advance excellence in teaching and learning.

This semester brings new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and inspire. Thank you for all that you do—wishing you a successful and rewarding term ahead!

AI-Generated photo of Amanda Maknyk.

Amanda Maknyik

Dean, Teaching, Learning & Academic Quality / Centre for Teaching & Learning

In this issue

ICE HIGHLIGHTS

BodySwaps 3.0 Updates / Limited Licenses for Fall & Winter​

CTL Launches Braiding Learning Framework and New Faculty Micro-credentials

ALL ABOUT TEACHING & LEARNING

How to add Course Outlines in DC Connect

Email a Copy of an Announcement to Your Classlist

Meaningful Land Acknowledgements

WHAT'S NEW?

Simplify Student Appointments using Microsoft Bookings

Strategies for Encouraging Student Engagement​

Applying Active Learning to Your Course Content​

UPCOMING CTL-HOSTED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS

DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements

Creating Course Materials with Adobe Express​

5 – or more – Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Can Do with DC’s Office 365 Tools​

💻 All about Teaching & Learning

How to add Course Outlines in DC Connect

Email a Copy of an Announcement to Your Classlist

Professors can now choose to send a copy of an announcement to all users in their Classlist as an email, sent as if from the professor themselves.

When creating or editing an announcement, a new Send email copy checkbox now appears below the Content field:

Screenshot of text area in DC Connect.

Meaningful Land Acknowledgements

At the start of the semester a great way to add an act of Reconciliation into your course is with a meaningful Land Acknowledgement!

Start with the Durham College Land Acknowledgment. From there, make it meaningful, and personalized.

A few quick tips to make your Land Acknowledgment meaningful and to avoid tokenism is to:

Add a positionality statement and what your purpose with the Land Acknowledgment is.

Include what you know, what you don’t know, and what you would like to learn.

Your commitment to your ongoing education of Indigenous histories and reconciliation (ensure its actionable!).

Want to add it as a page in your DC Connect?

💡 Tip

Don’t forget to personalize the template too!

✅ Learn More

To learn more visit Acknowledging the Land - First Peoples Indigenous Centre or join the CTL’s Asynchronous Land Acknowledgment training “Roots of Recognition” by searching “Faculty PD: Indigenous Perspectives for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment” in the Self-Registration Courses.

🆕 What's New

Simplify Student Appointments using Microsoft Bookings

Would you like to meet with students, but find the process of scheduling meetings tiring? Consider using Microsoft Bookings and have students select and book times based on your schedule!

Microsoft Bookings is included with your suite Microsoft Office apps and features available through your DC account. It creates a unique link for you to provide to students. The best part is you can set the available times where students can schedule a meeting - ensuring you don't have conflicts. No longer will you have to email back and forth about potential meeting times.

Microsoft Bookings can be accessed from the list of apps in both OneDrive or Microsoft Teams. From here you can set up your own personal booking link which can be shared in your email signature, or on DC Connect.

✅ Learn More

To learn more about Bookings, you can check out this resource from Microsoft, or see this step-by-step guide from Lesley University.

Strategies for Encouraging Student Engagement

Engaging students is an important component of your course, sometimes more so than the content. If you have an engaging presence and class, students will be more willing to learn the 'boring' stuff. A recent Blog from TopHat explores 34 strategies for engaging students, organized into specific categories for you to explore based on your needs.

If you're just getting started in class, and want to bring in some ice breakers to start building community, consider creating an H5P scavenger hunt! This activity:

Gets students reading and interacting with the course outline

Can be used as a small assessment (when combined with an assignment folder in DC Connect) or a connection activity

Helps students locate due dates and navigate the learning plan

The course outline scavenger hunt is a fun, low-effort way to boost engagement while helping students stay organized in your class.

Applying Active Learning to Your Course Content

Active learning approaches require students to engage with the course content and become participants in their learning process. The CTL has published new and updated active learning strategies to help promote student engagement including adjustments for students with exceptionalities and general wise inclusive practices. Check out the website for some ideas you can use across classes of all sizes!

🎓 Upcoming CTL-Hosted Professional Development Sessions

DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements

January 15, 1 to 2 p.m. on Microsoft Teams

Explore how to use and customize existing interactive elements without html, including adding an interactive quiz tool for formative assessment directly within content pages.

Note: This session builds on the Using DC Connect Templates and Using DC Connect Templates Drop-In sessions. It is recommended for faculty who have already attended one of those sessions.

Creating Course Materials with Adobe Express

January 27, 2 to 3 p.m. on Microsoft Teams

DC now offers licenses for Adobe Express! This software is similar to Canva and a powerful tool in your teaching toolkit. Create content for your courses in the form of an infographic - perfect for a connection or summary activity in your DC Connect to promote engagement with your students.

Note: Please come to the session with Adobe Express account ready to use - connect with Service Desk, if required - and content you would like to summarize in an infographic together.

5 – or more – Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Can Do with DC’s Office 365 Tools

January 29, 10 to 11 a.m. on Microsoft Teams

Explore features like auto captions, live translations, email summaries, audio transcription, and Presenter Coach—all without Gen AI!

📌 Looking for more personalized support? We’re here to help!

We encourage you to book a meeting with a member of our team through Microsoft Bookings.

📣 Stay tuned for the February issue of the CTL Compass next month!

CHWC hosts Wellness Week: January 18 to 23 - Announcements, January 13, 2026

From January 18 to January 23, DC students are invited to take part in opportunities to recharge, connect, and focus on their well-being. Select activities are also open to employees, including fitness classes, a guided health hike and our keynote speaker presentation.

On Bell Let's Talk Day, the Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC), in partnership with the Durham College Student Association (DCSA), will welcome mental health advocate Sam Demma for a keynote presentation in Gyms 3 and 4. Sam's message centres on empathy, hope, and mental health, inviting participants to reflect on how everyday thoughts and actions can foster greater kindness and connection. The event is open to all members of the campus community and will also feature resource tables hosted by departments from across DC.

Faculty and coaches are encouraged to share this opportunity with their students, helping them engage in this important conversation on mental health. Register here for the event.

Explore the full schedule of Wellness Week events online. Additional supports and services are also available through the Wellness Directory, Are You Okay? webpage, and ICE, offering resources to help you prioritize your own well-being while continuing to support DC students.

Thank you for helping foster a healthy, supportive, and people-centred campus community.

Reminder: Submitting Invoices to Accounts Payable - Announcements, January 13, 2026

To ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices, please follow the established procurement and documentation requirements outlined below:

Requisition Approval Requirements All requisitions for the procurement of goods and non‑consulting services must receive approval from the appropriate authority in accordance with the organization's Schedule of Authority before any work begins.

Purchase Order Procedures When a purchase order (PO) is required, a requisition must be fully created and approved prior to ordering any goods or services. This step is essential to maintain compliance and proper financial controls.

Invoice Submission Standards Invoices related to an approved purchase order must clearly reference the corresponding PO number. Please ensure this information is included on all invoice documents submitted to Accounts Payable to avoid delays in processing.

Any questions, please contact Norah Warmuth, Manager of Accounting

Tell your students about Job Fair 2026! - Announcements, January 13, 2026

​This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please email any questions to careerdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca. 

Whether they're looking to embark on a career or find a summer job, we're helping students to connect with employers at Job Fair 2026 in February.

Please encourage students to mark their calendars and keep up-to-date by following @GetHiredDC on Instagram, using #GetHiredDC on social media or visiting the Hired Portal. 

Durham College and Ontario Tech University Job Fair – Oshawa Campus  

Thursday, February 5, 2026

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (Gyms 3, 4 and 5) 

Durham College Job Fair – Whitby Campus 

Thursday, February 12, 2026

9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

Don Lovisa Building (Atrium and Hallway) 

Sharing news regarding the passing of Dr. Elder Shirley Williams - Announcements, January 7, 2026

This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.

Dear colleagues,

I want to share with you that Dr. Elder Shirley Williams passed on December 19 and will be deeply missed.

​Elder Shirley has been a valuable member of the Durham College (DC) community since 2012, offering guidance rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing. She was deeply committed to supporting Indigenous learners and strengthening understanding across educational spaces and her teachings continue to shape who we are at DC.

Elder Shirley was instrumental in the creation of Suswaaning Endaajig or the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC), a dedicated and welcoming space that supports Indigenous learners through cultural connection, community, and care. She also gifted the outdoor gathering space located next to the Centre for Collaborative Education its Anishinaabemowin name, Naanaagide'endamowin (The Art of Thinking) Courtyard.

We are grateful for the time, teachings, and spirit Elder Shirley shared with us and we commit to carrying her teachings forward in our work and relationships. To honour Elder Shirley's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Elder Shirley's family and friends during this difficult time.

Read more about her life and legacy at the Island Funeral Home website.

Counselling and support are available for the DC community through TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks). Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-844-880-9142, TTY Service at 1-877-338-0275, or www.workhealthlife.com. 

​

Welcoming DC's Executive Director, Strategic Reporting and Government Relations - Announcements, January 7, 2026

​This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.

I am pleased to share that Anthony Longo will be joining Durham College (DC) as the Executive Director, Strategic Reporting and Government Relations, beginning on Tuesday, February 3.

This is a key leadership position supporting the President's office and advancing the college's government relations function and strategic reporting. The role plays an important part in strengthening DC's relationships with government and system partners while ensuring timely, accurate, and strategic reporting aligned with institutional priorities.

Anthony comes to DC from a number of progressive roles within the provincial government, where he worked closely with senior leaders on policy, risk management, strategy, and government relations. He brings extensive experience supporting executive decision-making, managing complex stakeholder relationships, leading Lean transformation initiatives, and translating policy, data, and system-level insights into clear, actionable information.

He holds a Master of Business Administration in Management and Change from Carleton University, and brings a strong understanding of government processes, accountability frameworks, and the post-secondary environment.

We look forward to welcoming Anthony to DC and to the expertise he will bring in support of advancing the college's strategic objectives.

Food Service Hours - January 5 - 9, 2026 - Announcements, January 7, 2026

Food Service Hours - Week of January 5 - 9, 2026

Oshawa Campus

Tim Horton's - B-wing

Monday - Thursday 7:30AM-3:00PM

Friday 7:30AM-2:00PM

South Village Dining Hall

Monday - Friday 9:30AM-8:00PM

Whitby Campus

Tim Horton's - Whitby

Monday - Thursday 7:30AM-3:00PM

Friday 7:30AM-2:00PM

Regular Food Service Hours of Operation will resume on Monday, January 12, 2026.

New Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider in effect - Announcements, January 7, 2026

​This message is shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.

On January 1, 2026, Homewood Health officially became Durham College's (DC) new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, replacing TELUS Health.

Full-time employees and their immediate family now have access to services and programming that includes:  

Professional counselling and coaching services

A First Call Care Program, equipped to address immediate crisis and urgent counselling needs with same day support from a licensed clinician

Access to online resources related to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, a health and wellness library, and a health risk assessment

Their services are accessible anytime online or by phone at 1-800-663-1142.

Homewood Health is a trusted service provider with extensive measures in place to ensure privacy and data security. No employee details will ever be reported back to the College.

Learn more on the EFAP ICE page

Full-time employees are encouraged to learn more about the services available to them on the dedicated EFAP page on ICE.

Attend an information session

Homewood Health will offer employee information seminars on Friday, January 30 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. and Wednesday, February 25 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Registration is now open.

If you have any questions, please contact Leigh-Ann Harper, Talent Development Advisor, Human Resources.

You're Invited - The Barrett Centre Winter Lecture Series - Announcements, January 7, 2026

The Barrett Centre is launching a new Winter Digital Lecture Series, and we’d love for you to join us for the first session! The Barrett Centre Winter Lecture Series is a three-part educational series that will highlight how municipalities and industry partners can work together to strengthen local urban agriculture initiatives.

Session #1 is scheduled for Thursday January 29th, and will be hosted on MS Teams. The first session will feature a 20–30-minute presentation by our session anchor, Andrew Fleet from Growing Chefs! Ontario, followed by a moderated panel discussion with 2 additional panel members, Julia Hunt from Pickering College and Drake Ryckman from Casa Loma. After the panel discussion there will be an opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with Andrew, Julia and Drake. 

Here is a bit of information about our Session #1 Anchor, Andrew Fleet from Growing Chefs! Ontario.

Andrew Fleet is an avid local food enthusiast. After 15 years in the restaurant industry, including managing national award-winning restaurants, Andrew founded Growing Chefs! Ontario, a London based charity with a mission to change the way we learn about and develop healthy relationships with food.

Over the past 18 years, Growing Chefs! Ontario has established itself as a provincial leader in children’s food education. Their school and community-based food education programs have been offered in partnership with over 100 schools and dozens of community organizations across London and area serving over 10,000 children and families every year.

Growing Chefs! operates a thriving social enterprise which generates over $1,000,000.00 in annual revenue through its events facility, catering services and school lunch program.

There is no cost for the session, but registration is required, and space is limited. You can sign up through Eventbrite using the link below:

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-barrett-centre-winter-lecture-series-2026-tickets-1977033535525?aff=oddtdtcreator

We hope you’ll join us for this amazing opportunity!

Please reach out to Meaghan O'Hara: Meaghan.O'Hara@durhamcollege.ca if you have any questions. 

This Week in International Education - International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP) - Announcements, December 17, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi. If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

The International Student Mentorship Program (ISMP) is currently accepting applications for mentors and mentees for the Winter 2026 term (January to April). The ISMP connects first semester international students to higher semester international and domestic students, as well as Alumni. Members will have exclusive access to events with refreshments and prizes, and mentors that connect with their mentee(s) three or more times throughout a term are eligible for a free Myers Briggs assessment, offered by the Student Development office ($30 value). Please help share the program page with students.

Discover Camp Samac in Oshawa—163 acres of scenic forest offering hiking trails and year-round outdoor adventures. Join us for a day of exciting activities including: the Herbivore / Omnivore / Carnivore Game, Nature Hike, and Winter Shelter Building & Survival. It's the perfect destination for fun, learning, and connecting with nature in the heart of Durham Region. Tickets are $8 (regularly $25), and the trip will be held on two separate days: December 16 and January 30. The time will be from 9 am to 2 pm, and the departure location will be the first floor of the SSB (in front of the Tim Horton's). Registration link can be found on our Linktree.

The GISE workshop continues this week. On Friday, we will host a PGWP Walk Through workshop and walk our graduating international students through the application process, including accessing the IRCC secure account, and completing the IMM5710 form. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

Join us in celebrating Human Rights Day, December 10 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI). 

Happy Human Rights Day! 

On December 10, Durham College (DC) joins the global community in recognizing Human Rights Day on the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. 

While this day is celebratory, it also reminds us of the ongoing challenges that impact members of our community and beyond. Globally, human rights violations remain widespread: last year, over 150 countries reported significant concerns, including discrimination and restrictions on freedom of expression. In Canada, nearly 47% of women and 31% of men have experienced harassment or discrimination in the workplace, and more than half of racialized individuals report systemic bias. These realities underscore the importance of advancing human rights locally and globally to ensure everyone is valued and respected. 

The United Nations 2025 theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials", is a timely affirmation that human rights are fundamental to our shared human experience and a responsibility we all uphold daily. In the face of uncertainty, we call on our campus community to continue fostering a safe, equitable environment where everyone can thrive.  

Below are ways you can champion human rights at DC:  

Get Familiar:  

Review DC's Human Rights and Inclusion policies and procedures to ensure you are familiar with your rights and responsibilities as employees. 

Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy   

Sexual Violence Policy 

All-Gender Washroom Policy

If you have been affected by discrimination, harassment or violence or know of a colleague or team member who has been, please reach out to your HR generalist. 

Students may request a Human Rights consultation to address any concerns they may have. Please email Humanrightssupport@durhamcollege.ca. 

All students who have been affected by gender-based violence/sexual violence are encouraged to email SVsupport@durhamcollege.ca for support and resources. 

The R.I.S.E program provides education, advocacy, response pathways to students from equity-deserving communities and their allies. 

Show Your Commitment:  

Show your commitment for human rights by sharing a post expressing one of your human rights that are a daily essential and tag @equityatdc and/or use the hashtag #DCHumanRightsDay2025 on Instagram. 

Listen and Learn:  

Join an educational workshop, webinar or watch a documentary or movie highlighting equity-deserving community voices and experiences, available through the DC Library Resources. 

Additionally, employees are encouraged to review the OEDI website for information on their rights and responsibilities as a member of the DC community.

For continued learning on Human Rights visit the Ontario Human Rights Commissions website for general information or visit UN's Human Rights Day webpage.  

For those in leadership roles: Department or team leads can email an Inclusion Consultation Request to OEDI  at equity@durhamcollege.ca for support enhancing the inclusivity of your processes, programs, policies and structures. 

Speak up and speak out: 

When you hear discriminatory language or witness exclusion, hate or violence, say something. You can learn how to champion human rights through the UN's #standupforhumanrights campaign.   

The OEDI at DC is committed to addressing and preventing all acts of violence, hate, discrimination, and exclusion through proactive human rights-based and trauma-informed policies, programs and supports. In recognition of Human Rights Day, we invite you to join us in fostering a culture of respect, mindfulness, and inclusion. Let's use our voices to challenge hate, uplift one another, and create spaces where everyone feels safe and valued. Whether through dialogue, education, or allyship, your participation matters. Take a moment today to reflect, speak out, and take action toward a more compassionate world. ​

STUDENTS CAN PLAN FOR THE FUTURE AT PATHWAYS FAIR, FEBRUARY 10-11 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​​This message is being shared on behalf of Transfer Services.

Durham College (DC) students can learn how to take their education even further at our Pathways Fair.

Students are invited to join us on Tuesday, February 10 in Whitby (Don Lovisa Building, Central Hall) and Wednesday, February 11 in Oshawa (Gordon Willey Building, The Pit/South Wing Hall) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to connect with post-secondary institutions from across Ontario, Canada and beyond.

By attending the event, students will learn about the many options that await them after graduation, and how their DC education can give them a head start on their next credential.

If your students are eager to continue their studies, invite them to register for the event today!

Please direct questions to pathways@durhamcollege.ca.

Thank you for registering! Wrap for Hope – December 19 🎁 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is shared on behalf of Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations (AAR) and Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity. Please direct any questions to Peter Garrett, Senior Development Officer, Strategic and Community Initiatives, AAR.

​Dear colleagues, 

Thank you to those of you who signed up to volunteer for Wrap for Hope this holiday season! We are grateful for the tremendous response and your willingness to support children and families across Durham Region. 

All spaces have been booked and everyone who registered will receive an email update shortly with details for attending the event, including shift confirmations, instructions, and day-of information. 

We look forward to coming together on Friday, December 19 at the Oshawa Centre to support Durham Children's Aid Foundation's Holiday Hope and help make the season brighter for our community. 

Thank you again for your generosity and community spirit.

Board of Governors Spotlight: Rhonda Jessup - Announcements, December 17, 2025

The Durham College (DC) Board of Governors sets the course for our future. Comprised of 12 external board members, four internal board members and the college president, they guide us in our ongoing vision to transform lives, build careers and enrich communities. Throughout the year, we'll profile board members to help you get to know them better.

Rhonda Jessup is an External Governor who joined the Durham College (DC) Board of Governors in September 2025. As CEO of the Whitby Public Library, Rhonda brings both professional expertise and personal passion to her role.

She spoke to us about her passion for education, how our new strategic vision speaks to her, and the DC program she'd love to enrol in.

What motivated you to get involved with the Durham College Board of Governors?

My ties to Durham College run deep. My husband and daughter are alumni, and I've collaborated with DC through countless community partnerships. To me, DC truly lives up to Dr. Popp's description as “Durham's College." It's a place with a strong presence and an even stronger impact on the community.

What inspires you most about DC, its employees or its students?

I'm continuously impressed by the college's commitment to lifelong learning and its dedication to supporting students. I admire how faculty and staff invest wholeheartedly in student success, creating a personalized experience even within such a large institution. I've hired DC graduates and worked with co-op students, and I'm always pleased by their enthusiasm and readiness to contribute. The skills they learn at DC prepare them for meaningful careers.

In 2025, the Board approved a new Strategic Vision for the college. What part of the Strategic Vision resonates with you the most, and why?

I'm moved by the phrase “transforming lives." To me, it captures the essence of education as a transformative journey; whether for a young student, a lifelong learner, or someone seeking new opportunities later in life. It's like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, a reminder that growth and renewal are possible at every stage of life.

If you had the opportunity to return to DC as a student, what program would you take?

Culinary Management. I actually plan to pursue it when I've retired. I'm a decent home cook and I'm captivated every time I visit the Centre for Food and watch students honing their craft. For me, it would be the ideal mix of passion and education.

What is your favorite book?

As a librarian, I love to read. My current book recommendation is Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver. It's a raw, yet hopeful story of resilience, survival, and finding light in the darkest corners. I was so moved by its portrayal of poverty, addiction, and perseverance that I've been gifting the book to friends and family to share its message of strength and hope. 

Zachery Ellis named to CSC 30 Under 30's Class of 2025 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Durham College's Sports Information and Marketing Coordinator Zacher​y Ellis has been named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) 30 Under 30 Class of 2025, recognizing him as one of the nation's rising professionals in collegiate athletics communications.

The CSC 30 Under 30 program, created in 2022 by the organization's Young Professionals Committee, celebrates emerging communicators across all levels of college athletics. Recipients are recognized for excellence in strategic communications, creative production, digital innovation, and their overall impact on campus communities.

In his role, Ellis is responsible for shaping the voice of Durham College Athletics across social media, website coverage, game day communications, and community engagement. His work has helped elevate the profile of DC Athletics at both the provincial and national level.

College Sports Communicators, founded in 1957, is a 4,700+ member association serving strategic, creative, and digital communicators throughout the United States and Canada. Its mission focuses on elevating the profession through professional development and by providing leadership and resources in the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics communications.

Food Services Hours - December 15 - January 9 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This message is being sent on behalf of Amanda Blenkhorn, Director, Ancillary Services

Please note the following Food Services Hours of Operation from December 15 - December 23:

Monday, December 15 - Friday, December 19

Oshawa Campus

Tim Horton's B wing:

Monday to Thursday:  7:30am-3:00pm

Friday:  7:30am-2:00pm

Whitby Campus

Tim Horton's

Monday to Thursday:  7:30am-3:00pm

Friday:  7:30am-2:00pm

​

Monday, December 22, 2025

Oshawa Campus

Tim Horton's B wing:

Monday 7:30am-2:00pm

Whitby Campus

Tim Horton's

Monday 7:30am-2:00pm

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

All Food Service locations will be closed.  Complimentary, light refreshments will be provided by Chartwells on Tuesday, December 23rd ​in the PIT and the Whitby boardroom until 12pm.

Happy Holidays!

Sharing more information on our new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This message is shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.

As I shared on November 25, effective January 1, 2026, Durham College's (DC) full-time employees and their immediate family will have access to health and wellness services through Homewood Health. Learn more below about the services available and how to access them in the new year.

Access professional counselling and coaching services

As our new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, Homewood Health offers comprehensive programming including professional counselling and coaching services. Their First Call Care Program is equipped to address immediate crisis and urgent counselling needs with same day support from a licensed clinician. Eligible employees and their family members can access these services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 1-800-663-1142. All calls are confidential and private.

Access online resources

Homewood Health also offers a suite of online health and well-being resources, including:

A self-paced online Cognitive Behaviour Therapy program for depression and anxiety, called Sentio.

A variety of online courses that offer practical learning for improving personal wellness, life skills, and workplace effectiveness.

A health and wellness library featuring a collection of articles and tools, alongside information on drugs, diseases, natural products, tests and procedures, and general health.

An interactive health risk assessment tool for evaluating health history and lifestyle habits.

To access these online resources, employees will first need to visit Homeweb.ca and create a private personal account, using the organization code DC6242. Homewood Health is a trusted service provider with extensive measures in place to ensure privacy and data security. They own all aspects of the registration process and data collection, and are committed to maintaining confidentiality. No employee details will ever be reported back to the College.

Learn more on the EFAP ICE page

Learn more about all of their services, Homeweb registration instructions, and information about their privacy and data security on the dedicated EFAP page on ICE.

Attend an information session

Homewood Health will offer employee information seminars on Friday, January 30 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. and Wednesday, February 25 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Registration is now open.

Continue to use TELUS Health until December 31

Please note that you will continue to have access to services through TELUS Health until December 31, 2025.  Confidential services can be accessed 24/7 by phone (1.844.880.9142 or TTY 1.877.338.0275), online at MailScanner has detected a possible fraud attempt from "workhealthlife.com" claiming to be http://workhealthlife.com or via the My EAP mobile app.

Human Resources is working with both TELUS Health and Homewood, to ensure the EFAP service transition will be seamless.

If you have any questions, please contact Leigh-Ann Harper, Talent Development Advisor, Human Resources.

Notice of Service Disruption – Oshawa Campus - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems.

Please be aware of the following entrance closure at the CRWC Building.

Location: The south entrance of the CRWC Building will be closed for exterior restoration work. Please refer to the map below for the affected areas.

When: December 13–14

Details: Work areas will be cordoned off with signs and barricades, and access will be restricted until the project is complete. Athletics staff will direct students to use the south varsity entrances as the alternate access point. If the work is completed on Saturday, the entrance will reopen on Sunday.

Notice of Service Disruption – Entrance closure, Gordon Willey building, Oshawa campus - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems.

Please be aware of the following entrance closure at the Gordon Willey building.

Location: The southwest entrance to the Pit behind the security desk will be closed for exterior restoration work. Please refer to the map below for the affected areas.

When: December 15, 2025–January 15, 2026

Details: Work areas will be fenced off and clearly marked with signage and barricades. Access will remain restricted until the project is complete. The entrance will reopen once the work is finished.​

2026 EI and CPP contributions, and Federal/Provincial TD1 forms - Announcements, December 17, 2025

Upon receiving your initial pay for January 2026, you may notice your net pay is lower than it was at the end of 2025. This is because of how Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI) contributions are deducted from your pay.

Each year, the Government of Canada sets maximum CPP and EI contribution amounts. These contributions are deducted from your pay throughout the year until the respective maximums are reached, after which the deductions stop for the remainder of the year.

Contributions to CPP and EI recommence each January 1.

2026 CPP2 limit

Effective January 1, 2026, a higher second earnings ceiling of $85,000, known as the Year's Additional Maximum Pensionable Earnings (YAMPE), will be used to determine second additional CPP contributions (CPP2). This CPP2 is part of the CPP enhancement. 

As a result, pensionable earnings between $74,600 and $85,000 are subject to CPP2 contributions.   

The 2026 CPP and CPP2 maximums and rates are summarized as follows: 

2026 CPP Contributions:

2026 CPP1 max earnings – $74,600

2026 CPP2 max earnings – $85,000

Max contribution – $4,230.45 CPP1

Max contribution – $416 CPP2

CPP Rate – 5.95% on CPP1; 4.00% on CPP2

2026 EI Contributions:

Max earnings – $68,900

Max contribution – $1,123.07

EI Rate – 1.63%

CPP and EI maximum contributions apply to each job an employee holds with different employers. If you leave one employer during the year or start work with another employer, the new employer also has to deduct CPP contributions without taking into account what you paid during your previous employment (even if you contributed the maximum amount in your last job).

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will credit or refund any CPP and EI overpayments to employees when they file their income tax return.

Federal and Provincial Personal Tax Credit Returns forms

The Federal (TD1) and Provincial (TD1ON) Personal Tax Credits Return forms are used to determine the amount of income tax to be deducted from your pay.

You do not have to complete a new TD1 every year if you are claiming the basic personal amount, unless there is a change to your federal or provincial personal tax credit amounts. If there is no change, then no action is required by you regarding the TD1 form.

Reminder to all staff to review current taxation setup in ADP Work Force Now printed on your pay statement, and provide an updated TD1 if your claim is an amount other than basic

TD1 forms can be located on ICE under payroll, or from ADP Work Force Now Employee Self Service. 

Reminder: Join the DC Welcome Team for Academic Welcome Day and First Week Student Support!  - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please direct any inquiries to Shelly Hopper, Student Life Coordinator. 

The Student Development Office is looking for your support to help welcome new students to both Durham College (DC) campuses this January. 

There are three ways to get involved:  

1. Support Academic Welcome events on January 8 or 9. Help us to create a vibrant, inclusive, and confident start for new students. Your participation can make all the difference in helping them to feel supported and ready to succeed.  

Welcome students and guests 

Check in students, employees, and volunteers 

Provide wayfinding and campus directions 

Share information about student supports 

Your help is need at these Academic Welcome Sessions:​ 

Thursday, January 8 (Oshawa Campus) 

9:30​ a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Faculty of Health Sciences 

1:30 to 4:30 p.m. 

Faculty of Business and Information Technology 

Faculty of Media, Art and Design 

Faculty of Social and Community Services 

Faculty of Liberal Studies 

Friday, January 9 (Whitby Campus)​​ 

10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.​ 

Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship 

Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science 

Faculty of Health Sciences (Whitby programs) 

2. Join the Welcome Team and Ask Me campaign from January 12 to January 16. As a volunteer, you’ll answer students’ questions, provide directions, and help make their first days at DC warm and welcoming.  

This is a great opportunity for new employees to explore campus and meet colleagues! All participants will receive a green Ask Me T-shirt and access to FAQ resources to help you answer questions. 

3. All DC employees are encouraged to wear DC green on January 12 and the first week of classes to show their DC pride. 

To volunteer for an Academic Welcome Day or the Ask Me campaign please review the shift schedule, select a timeslot, and add your name by Wednesday, December 17. 

Find out more about Academic Welcome events on the Orientation microsite. 

Thank you for your support and collaboration in creating a positive and memorable start for our first-year students. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

Power Yoga Canada offers free week membership for DC students, staff and faculty - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.

Shoutout to Power Yoga Canada (PYC) for hooking up all Durham College & Ontario Tech students, staff, and faculty with a FREE WEEK at their Oshawa studio!

PYC aims to light up, inspire, and empower you to take your life on and to be a shining light to everyone around you.​​

To claim your free week, create a PYC profile (https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/ws?studioid=23431&stype=-2&subTab=info) and use promo code PEACE at checkout.

Their Oshawa studio is located at 866 Taunton Road West, Unit 1.

Valid until January 5. Don’t miss out! 

Update from the College Employer Council related to Part-Time Support Staff Bargaining, December 15, 2025 - Announcements, December 17, 2025

​This message is sent on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.

The College Employer Council (CEC) and CAAT-PTSS, representing approximately 15,000 part-time support staff, have reached a new collective agreement.

The CEC has shared an update related to bargaining and they have asked that this message be shared with all college employees. 

​Message from the CEC, December 15, 2025

All communications related to bargaining are available on the ICE homepage under the header Bargaining Communications and Impacts. This page is an easy point of reference, to find information and see updates related to negotiations. In addition to ICE, messages will also be included in DC Digest.

​The CEC's updates are also available on the CEC website.

Save the Date: Campus Master Plan Event - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.

Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University (OTU) invite you to mark your calendars for an important event that will help envision the future of the shared Oshawa campus.

On Wednesday, January 21, join Dr. Elaine Popp, President of Durham College, and Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor of Ontario Tech University, as they provide updates to the Campus Master Plan – a refreshed roadmap guiding how our campus will grow and evolve for decades to come.

This joint initiative reflects shared values and a commitment to academic excellence, student experience, and building a sustainable, innovative, and connected campus community.

​Wednesday, January 21, 2026

3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Dixon/Alger Fireside Reading Room, Library

Oshawa Campus

​Please save the date — registration details will follow in the new year.

CHWC Holiday Hours and Closure Notices - Announcements, December 17, 2025

We are closed during the following dates and times. 

December 17th at 12:30PM- re-opening December 18th at 7:00AM.

December 23 full day- re-opening on January 5 with normal operations.

IMPORTANT: If you are on campus and require security presence, contact the main security desk at 905-721-3211 or extension 2400. If it is an emergency, please call 911. If you would like to make an appointment at the CHWC you may do so online.

Please visit our website for more information: Durhamcollege.ca/CHWC​

Volunteers needed for FIRST LEGO League Ontario Provincial Championship - Announcements, December 17, 2025

Durham College (DC) is seeking volunteers to support the annual FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Challenge Ontario Provincial Championship on Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, 2026.

More than 400 students, ages nine to 14, will compete in LEGO robotics challenges at DC's Oshawa campus, joined by their families, teachers and coaches.

This is a meaningful opportunity to support youth interested in STEM while gaining valuable experience working with students, parents/guardians and educators from across Ontario. Volunteers will receive written recognition of their participation, along with a complimentary t-shirt and lunch.

Available volunteer roles for the day include:

Judges (prior FLL Challenge judging experience required)

Field re-setter

Team ambassador

Robot game queuer

And many more!

Please follow these steps to apply for a volunteer role:

Create a FIRST account at www.firstinspires.org to access the FIRST Volunteer Dashboard. Check out the step-by-step registration user guide or the instructional video for more information about this process.

Volunteers over 18 must complete the FREE Youth Protection Program (YPP) screening process. You will receive an email indicating that you passed the screening within two business days.

Sign up at FIRST Inspires for a volunteer position on one or both days. You'll then receive confirmation from the Volunteer Coordinator that you have been assigned to a role. After that you can complete any role-specific training necessary, accessible through the FIRST Volunteer Dashboard.

Attend a remote Volunteer Orientation Meeting the week before the event. Then, prepare to inspire and be inspired!

Please feel free to share this volunteer opportunity with anyone who may be interested in promoting STEM to young people. We hope to see you at the tournament!

Questions? Please contact Megan Lai, FLL Challenge Provincial Championship Volunteer Coordinator for FIRST Robotics Canada, at laimegan00@gmail.com or 647-202-9366.​

Launching Our Military-Connected Campus Initiative - Announcements, December 17, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education.

Durham College (DC) is embarking on a new project to engage the non-direct learner market by formally launching the Military-Connected Learner Initiative. This work recognizes the sizeable community of learners whose lives have been shaped by military service and who bring leadership, experience, and unique educational opportunities to our classrooms. This initiative positions us to strengthen pathways from service to study to employment while ensuring these learners feel seen, supported, and welcomed at DC.

To guide this work, we have established a steering committee with representatives from portfolios across the college. The committee will focus on investigating the development of an institutional approach that includes self-identification processes, communication and recruitment strategies, support structures for learners and their families, and community and employer partnerships. This direction aligns the college's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all with national efforts to support Veterans' well-being and career transitions and creates meaningful opportunities for DC to serve this population in ways that reflect our strengths as a college.

You will begin to see more activity as this initiative takes root in the new year. Work will include awareness building across the college, engaging cross-college teams, early data collection, and the development of a coordinated framework to support military-connected students throughout their academic journey.

We will continue to keep you informed as the project progresses.

This Week in International Education - CBIE 2025 International Student Survey - Announcements, December 12, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi. If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.] 

Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:

Moving to Canada and finding housing can be challenging, but we've got our new international students covered. The Arrive in Canada: Housing workshop will take place online this Friday, and in collaboration with DCSA, we'll help students navigate options, understand leases, and avoid common pitfalls. You can help share the registration link to this workshop HERE.

There's still time for international students to complete the CBIE 2025 International Student Survey, which will close on December 10, 2025! It's to give their feedback regarding their student experience in Canada and for a chance to win $1,000. Winners will be randomly selected from the pool of international students who complete the entire survey. You can help share the survey link HERE.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information. 

Recognizing National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, December 6 - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. 

Content Warning – This message is related to Sexual Violence and Gender-based Violence. 

On December 6, we pause to remember. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women honours the 14 women who were murdered at École Polytechnique de Montréal in 1989, targeted simply because they were women. It is a day of mourning, reflection, and a reminder of the devastating impact of gender-based violence (GBV). 

At Durham College (DC), we lower our flags to half-mast at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses in tribute not only to the victims of that tragedy, but to all women and gender-diverse individuals whose lives have been impacted or lost to GBV. This day is not about statistics or campaigns; it is about memory. It is about acknowledging the pain, injustices and inequities that persist, and holding space for those who live with its effects. It is also about recognizing our responsibility, as a campus community, to ensure that our classrooms, offices, and shared spaces are places of safety, dignity, and respect. 

On Thursday, December 4 at 11 a.m. in the Rotary Global Classroom (Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 145) the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will host a memorial ceremony to honour the victims of École Polytechnique de Montréal and all those affected by gender-based violence. The event will also be livestreamed, and a special viewing area will be available at the Whitby campus in Room 1-12 of the Don Lovisa Building. If you can't join us, we invite you take a moment to reflect, remember, and recommit to fostering a culture where violence is not tolerated and everyone is valued. 

For those looking to learn more about the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, resources are available through Women and Gender Equality Canada, and the Canadian Women's Foundation, which offers key facts about gender-based violence in Canada. 

If you or someone you know is seeking support, Durham College offers a range of resources including the Sexual Violence Awareness at DC page, Sexual Violence Supports and Resources, and the Are You Okay? initiative, which provides immediate mental health and wellness services for students. Additionally, Durham Region Community Resources are available for women experiencing violence or abuse. 

If you are experiencing any form of gender-based violence and/or questioning your relationship or safety, help and support is available. Students, please reach out to the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Coordinator for support via email: SVcoordinator@durhamcollege.ca 

If you are an employee who has been affected by sexual violence and or any form of gender-based violence, you are not alone. Help is available.    

For support with workplace sexual harassment, please reach out to your  HR generalist     

For support with gender-based violence (including sexual violence), please submit your confidential request to Human Resources for assistance and workplace safety planning.

For emergencies at the workplace, please contact Campus Safety and email Christy.McMillan@durhamcollege.ca.

If you have immediate safety and or health concerns, please call:   

Campus Security and Safety  

Oshawa Campus: 905.721.2000 ext. 2400 or 905.721.3211  

Whitby Campus: 905.721.2000 ext. 4098 or 905.721.3211  

OR 

911 – Police and emergency services

Registration for January 2026 employee parking permits now open

This message is being shared on behalf of Parking Services.

WHAT

Employee parking permit sales for January 2026 are available on IPASS for both the Oshawa campus and the Whitby campus. Note: If you already have an annual parking permit valid September 2025 through August 2026, no action is required.

DETAILS

Winter Semester passes – Current permit holder – Gated Lot

Existing fall semester permit holders can obtain a Winter Semester pass through IPASS and by entering their existing Access Card Number for continued use upon approval. Otherwise, the Fall Semester permit expires December 31, 2025.

Employees purchasing Winter Semester parking permits must ensure the ACTIVATION DATE on the IPASS application indicates JANUARY 1, 2026.

There are three paid semester terms in a year and a semester pass is only valid for four (4) months, otherwise they automatically expire. They are available for: Fall semester (September 1 – December 31), Winter semester (January 1 – April 30), and Summer Semester (May 1 – August 31).

Employees requiring yearly parking should purchase an annual pass to avoid third semester costs.

​Winter Semester passes – Current permit holder – Hang-tag Lot

Existing fall semester hang-tag holders can obtain a Winter Semester hang-tag permit through IPASS and upon approval, visit the Parking Office with their existing hang tag between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday to Friday to have a new permit sticker applied to the hang-tag. Otherwise, the Fall Semester hang-tag expires on December 31, 2025.

Employees purchasing Winter Semester parking permits must ensure the ACTIVATION DATE on the IPASS application indicates JANUARY 1, 2026.