Durham College

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 Zachery 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 

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.

Annual and semester passes – New users

First time purchasers who require a winter semester or annual parking pass are required to register on-line through IPASS.

Employees purchasing Winter Semester parking permits must ensure the ACTIVATION DATE on IPASS application indicates JANUARY 1, 2026.

Payment for parking permits can be made through the IPASS registration website either through credit card or pre-authorized payment.

Employees are required to use their institutional email address when registering.

After completing the registration, an email will be sent within 24 to 48 business hours from IPASS.

The email response from IPASS will be:

An approval email with follow-up instructions.

A disapproval email due to non-institutional email on application.

A disapproval email due to incorrect credit card or banking information.

In the instance of an above disapproval email, please re-submit the parking request through IPASS making the appropriate correction (institutional email, correct banking information).

In the instance of a disapproval email advising the lot is full, please forward disapproval email to the Parking Office at parking@dc-ot.ca requesting the disapproval be overridden.

Employees should pick up their access card or hang tag prior to Friday, January 9, 2026 at the Parking Offices in either the Gordon Willey building at the Oshawa campus, or the Don Lovisa building at the Whitby campus between Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Initial access cards will be provided at no charge. Replacement cards can be requested for $25.

For questions specific to the IPASS registration website please see the FAQ link or send an email through the contact link in the email response from IPASS. IPASS will respond to all queries submitted through this portal within 24-48 business hours.

For general enquiries please contact the Parking Office at parking@dc-ot.ca or whitbyparking@durhamcollege.ca .

Pay-As-U-Go (PAUG) option

Employees can register for the PAUG option on the IPASS website using a credit card and will receive an access card to park in a designated gated lot. Employees should pick up their access card prior to Friday, January 9, 2026 at the Parking Office in the Gordon Willey building at the Oshawa campus between Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or the Don Lovisa building at the Whitby campus between Monday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Charge per day (versus per use) is $12 and allows the user to exit and re-enter the lot with no additional charge (in-and-out privilege).

Precise ParkLink monitors use of the PAUG card and automatically charges the registered credit card at the end of each month for each day of use and provides a statement through email.

PAUG is available for Founders 2, Commencement and at Whitby only.

Daily parking

Daily parking is available in two lots – Pay & Display or Gated Lots.

The cost for daily parking is $5 per hour with a maximum of $18 per day at the Oshawa campus and $14 per day at the Whitby campus.

Tap debit and credit card payment is now available at exit gates.

Pay Stations accept cash, coins, debit and credit cards and are located in the Founders 2 lot (south-east corner), and Commencement lot at the Oshawa campus. Two pay stations are available at the Whitby campus, one inside the Don Lovisa building entrance, the second in the north entrance of the Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology.

LOTS & RATES

EMPLOYEE LOTS AND RATES Semester Rate Yearly Rate

Founders 1 *Waitlist only $ 350.00 $ 700.00

Founders 2 $ 325.00 $ 650.00

Founders 4 (CIC) $ 300.00 $ 600.00

Founders 5 – North CIC Lot $ 200.00 $ 400.00

Commencement $ 325.00 $ 650.00

Champions Lot $ 350.00 $ 700.00

Simcoe Village Lot $ 325.00 $ 650.00

Whitby Main $ 325.00 $ 650.00

Ball Diamond Lot

$ 300.00 $ 600.00

January Service Fairs - Quick Access to Key Resources - Announcements, December 12, 2025

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 and staff are invited to stop by our upcoming Services Fairs on both campuses. These fairs bring 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 Services Fair offers a convenient and worthwhile opportunity.

Oshawa Campus:

January 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The Pit, Gordon Willey building

Whitby Campus:

January 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Student Lounge, Don Lovisa building

Be safe on the ice this winter - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being shared by Health and Safety.

Winter weather and icy conditions have arrived on our Durham College (DC) campus, and with them a comes a higher potential for slips and falls.

Although our staff and contractors make every effort to immediately address snowy and icy conditions to ensure our safety, we must still be careful when walking on surfaces in cold temperatures.

When you encounter a potentially slippery surface, walk like a penguin by taking slow, short, shuffling steps. Point your feet out slightly, bend your knees a little and keep your centre of gravity over your feet to maintain balance.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe and upright this winter:

In cold temperatures, approach walking surfaces with caution and assume that all wet, dark areas on pavement are icy and slippery.

Wear proper footwear for the conditions.

Report unsafe conditions by notifying security right away.

Focus on your footing, not your phone.

Step down straight off a curb as opposed to at an angle.

Be aware of changes in walking surfaces.

Keep your hands free – don't walk with your hands in your pockets.

Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles – use the vehicle for support.

Use handrails for support whenever available (on ramps, stairs etc.)

Walk on designated pathways or sidewalks.

If you feel yourself falling, try to relax your muscles, tuck your chin in to your chest if falling backward, and aim to land on a fleshy part of your body (like your side) rather than knees, wrists or spine.

Reminder: Privacy in Practice session: Data minimization - December 8 ,2025 - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

You are invited to the first session of our Privacy in Practice series on Monday, December 8 at 11:30 a.m. This 30-minute talk will focus on the foundational privacy principle of data minimization. Data minimization is the practice of collecting, using and retaining only the personal information that is strictly necessary to fulfill a specific purpose.

During the session, we will explore:

The core principles and benefits of data minimization (and the risks over collecting)

How this principle aligns with privacy legislation

Practical applications within the context of our work at Durham College

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women - Announcements, December 12, 2025

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

Durham College (DC) stands with communities across Canada in recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on Saturday, December 6.

We pause to remember the 14 women whose lives were tragically taken on December 6, 1989, at the École Polytechnique de Montréal in a senseless act of hate and misogyny. The loss of these talented women with bright futures continues to resonate deeply within post-secondary institutions, including here at DC.

As we honour their memory, we also acknowledge all those whose lives have been forever changed by gender-based violence. This national day reminds us of our shared responsibility to create a society where everyone can live, learn, and thrive, free from violence. Achieving that goal requires ongoing commitment to challenging gender inequality and the beliefs and behaviours that sustain it.

We must confront harmful stereotypes, stand with survivors, and advocate for lasting systemic change. Education, awareness, and allyship remain among our strongest tools in ending gender-based violence.

In remembrance of this day, we're hosting an event this morning at 11 a.m. in the Rotary Global Classroom (Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 145). If you can't join us at the Oshawa campus, the event will be livestreamed, and a special viewing area will be available at the Whitby campus in Room 1-12 of the Don Lovisa Building.

Wherever you are, I encourage you to reflect on the lives lost and the impact of gender-based violence by wearing a white ribbon and observing a moment of silence at 11 a.m.

All flags at DC will be lowered to half-mast on Saturday.

Together, let us reaffirm our dedication to a safer, more equitable future for all — one grounded in respect, compassion, and justice.

Updated College Policies - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

The Durham College Leadership Team recently reviewed and renewed the following policies:

Commercialization

Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response

Poster

Service Animals

Please direct any inquires about the policies to the policy owner.

Help needed to make Winter Academic Welcome events a success! - Announcements, December 12, 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.

Academic Welcome Week and the Welcome Team play a vital role in creating a sense of connectedness and belonging for incoming students, and we need your help to make it unforgettable. Building on the incredible spirit and dedication our campus community has shown during ASK ME campaigns, recruitment events, and Convocation ceremonies, the Student Development team is extending a campus-wide call for participants to support Academic Welcome events.

These events are all about creating a vibrant, inclusive, and confident start for new students. Your participation can make all the difference in helping them feel supported and ready to succeed.

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

Ask Me Campaign:

Monday, January 12 to Friday, January 16 (Oshawa and Whitby Campuses)

Participant roles include:

Welcoming students and guests

Checking in students, employees, and volunteers

Wayfinding and campus directions

Providing information about student supports

For new employees, joining the Welcome Team is an excellent way to become familiar with the campus and connect with your colleagues. All participants will receive a green Ask Me T-shirt. All employees are invited to wear green during the first week of classes to show your DC pride.

To register, view the six tabs in 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.

Durham College once again ranked as one of Canada's Top 50 Research Colleges - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research.

Durham College (DC) is proud to once again appear on Research Infosource Inc.'s list of Canada's Top 50 Research Colleges. Earning a place on this list year after year reflects the strength, dedication and collaboration of our research leaders and community.

This year, DC was highlighted as fourth among medium-sized colleges for our number of paid student researchers, and seventh for completed research projects.

Best of all, we placed first in two artificial intelligence (AI) related categories; AI research partnerships, with 87, and AI completed research projects, with 106.

With the high-impact work of DC's Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) and our five research centres – the AI Hub, Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation, MRC Studio, Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation and Social Impact Hub – we're lending our expertise to partners in a wide range of industries across eight provinces.

Being recognized on this list, particularly in the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence, shows that we are truly a nationally recognized leader in research and innovation.

I hope you share my pride in this accomplishment. The Top 50 Research College banner is now available and can be added to your employee email signature today. To learn more about ORSIE, read the 2024-2025 Annual Report.

CALL FOR STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD - Announcements, December 12, 2025

Cooperative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada) and Experiential & Work-Integrated Learning Ontario (EWO) recognize students who participate in work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences every year. As a member of the Durham College community, you can help!

Students participating in work-integrated learning (e.g. co-operative education, field placement, industry- or community-sponsored projects, etc.) are eligible for nomination. If selected, students can win cash prizes of up to $1,000.

Durham College can nominate up to two (2) candidates per award type (co-op or WIL) with the support of the partner organization and approval of the student. All nominations must focus on:

A WIL experience that occurred in 2025 – the WIL experience must fall under one of the 9 WIL categories (i.e. applied research projects, field placement, practicum, co-op, and more), as defined by CEWIL Canada;

Impact on the partner organization;

Impact on the student; and

Impact on Durham College.

Staff from the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) will provide direct support for the development and submission of the final nomination. If you are interested in nominating a student, please discuss the award with the student to see if they agree with being nominated and the forms they will be required to submit (e.g. an essay, portfolio, resume). An initial draft of their two-page essay is required to be submitted with the Expression of Interest.

Expression of Interest Form

Complete the Expression of Interest Form by Friday, January 9, 2026. Once EOIs are received, a panel will review to determine suitability to move forward for submission to EWO and/or CEWIL. ORSIE will reach out to selected nomination teams to finalize nomination submissions. The applications must be submitted to EWO and CEWIL on January 28, 2026, and January 30, 2026, respectively.

We encourage all who are interested to submit as early as possible. Please direct all questions to Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning at anna.degrauwe@durhamcollege.ca.

Candy cane sales in support of the DC Food Access Bursary - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This holiday season, the Finance teams at Durham College and Ontario Tech University are thrilled to bring back our annual candy cane sales from November 12 to December 18 to support student relief initiatives. Proceeds will benefit the Durham College DC Food Access Bursary and the Ontario Tech University Student Relief Fund, providing essential assistance to students in need.

Each online candy cane purchase qualifies you for a prize draw entry! The draw will take place on December 19, with winners notified directly and announced on ICE, DC Digest, and the Ontario Tech Weekly report. Thank you for your generosity in helping to make the season brighter for our students.

With each candy cane, you will receive a chance to win one of several great prizes. Candy canes can be purchased for one for $5; three for $10; seven for $15; or ten for $20.

Note: You will need your Banner ID and Password to log into the website. Staff can purchase candy canes for friends and family and utilize that person's first and last name for draw, however they must only use their staff email address, phone number and extension and office number for all the other information. The candy canes will only be distributed internally via interoffice mail.

Announcing the retirement of Julie Walker, Faculty Member, Faculty of Liberal Studies - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Claire McCormack, Associate Dean, Faculty of Liberal Studies.

After 22 years, Julie Walker, Faculty Member, Faculty of Liberal Studies, will retire from Durham College (DC) on December 31, 2025.

Julie's journey with DC began as a proud alumnus and continued when she joined the college in 2002. With a background in business and government, she started teaching communications and business courses full-time in 2003. In 2015, Julie transitioned to General Education, where she shared her curiosity and wide-ranging interests with students. A valued member of the GNED program team, Julie was deeply committed to creating inclusive learning environments that respected and supported diverse learners. Her teaching philosophy centered on exploring ideas, asking meaningful questions, and fostering the joy of learning together. Known for her enthusiasm, knowledge, sense of humour, and ability to make learning enjoyable, Julie was regularly recognized by students and colleagues alike.

In addition to teaching, Julie was involved in a number of DC committees including the Academic Integrity Standing Committee, COP-Research, and AI Hub. She led the Siemens Sustainability Education project in 2019 and played a key role in revising the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning course for DC's College Teaching Certificate (CTC).

Please join me in thanking Julie for her years of service to Durham College, and in sending her best wishes for a well-deserved retirement.

Opportunity to Get Executive Photo - December 10, 2025 - Announcements, December 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy

If you would like to get a new executive photo, you are invited to attend a drop-in photoshoot on December 10, 2025 any time between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. in the Office of the President, A140.

This opportunity is being offered free of charge.

Photos will be taken on a first come first served basis.

If you have any questions, please contact Melissa Pringle.

Adult learners explore next steps at DC’s Mature Student Events - Announcements, December 12, 2025

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

On December 2 and 3, Durham College (DC) hosted Mature Student Events designed to help adult learners explore their education and career pathways. Attendees learned about program options, admission requirements and available student supports through guided campus tours, one-on-one advising and a panel discussion featuring current DC mature students. Panelists shared their experiences returning to school, balancing responsibilities, navigating available services and finding success at DC, offering relatable and practical insights for prospective learners.

A total of 167 prospective students attended across both evenings, with 63 submitting applications for 2026 programs during the events.

These events provided meaningful opportunities for mature learners to connect with DC's programs and services, receive tailored guidance, and make informed decisions about their educational plans.

Thank you to the teams involved in supporting this events, whether guiding tours, sharing program insights, or offering personalized advice, you ensured our guests left with a clear understanding of why DC truly represents the “Best. Decision. Ever."

Sharing news regarding the passing of Clint MacDonald, Faculty Member, Faculty of Business and Information Technology - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Dear colleagues,

Sharing news of the loss of a colleague is never easy, and sharing two messages like this, in two consecutive weeks, is exceptionally difficult. I'm sorry to share that Robert “Clint" MacDonald, a faculty member in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology, passed away on Saturday.

Clint joined Durham College (DC) in the fall of 2015 as a contract faculty member, where he taught in the computer programming and computer systems streams in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology. During his time here, he made significant contributions to the programs' curriculum through the development of purposeful and career-focused course content. Clint was a highly dependable team member who was committed to his students' success. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, November 20. Details are available on the Thornton Funeral Centre website.

To honour Clint'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 Clint's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.

Counselling and support are available for our 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.

This Week in International Education - Announcements, December 4, 2025

[This message is sent by 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:

International Education Week (IEW) is a global celebration of the benefits of international education and exchange. It highlights the importance of learning across cultures, fostering global awareness, and building connections that transcend borders. To mark this occasion, the Durham College International Education Office is proud to host a Community Cultural Mosaic on Friday, November 21, from 10 AM to 2 PM in The PIT at the Oshawa Campus. This vibrant event will feature live performances by DC students, including dancing, singing, and drumming, as well as interactive booths hosted by various DC offices and community partners. Join us in celebrating the rich cultural diversity that makes our campus community so unique!

For international students who're finishing programs this December, they gained access to the Graduating International Student Experience (GISE) program on DC Connect early this month. As part of the GISE program, we will offer 4 workshops on career supports and immigration applications. In collaboration with the Career Development office, the first GISE workshop From Contacts to Connections: Networking with Purpose for Career Growth will be hosted online this Friday. If you know any graduating international students interested in gaining Canadian work experience, please help share this opportunity! The registration link is on our Linktree.

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

DC Alumni Hockey Night: 10th Anniversary - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Join us as we mark a decade of memories, hometown hockey, and DC pride at the 10th anniversary of DC Alumni Hockey Night! This special milestone celebration brings together alumni, friends, and families for an unforgettable evening filled with excitement on and off the ice.

On January 30, the Oshawa Generals will host the Niagara IceDogs at the Tribute Communities Centre. Suite-level tickets include reception, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Get tickets by registering on Eventbrite.

Who should attend:

Alumni and their friends and families

DC employees

This event is hosted by the Durham College Alumni Association and is generously sponsored by our affinity partner, TD Insurance Meloche Monnex.

Upcoming moves on campus - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

With our lease at Campus Corners coming to an end, several office relocations will take place at the Oshawa Campus this December.

The following teams will be moving to new locations:

Financial Operations, Health and Safety, and Risk Management will move from Campus Corners and relocate to C-237 in the Gordon Willey Building, occupying the offices previously used by the Faculty of Media, Art and Design. This move will be completed on December 4.

The Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations will move from the Simcoe Village Residence also to C-237 in the Gordon Willey Building, bringing together a number of teams in the Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer portfolio. This move will be completed on December 2.

IT Services – Enterprise Systems will then move to the second floor of the Simcoe Village Residence, joining ICT Infrastructure, Information Security and IT Service Management and Governance. This consolidation will enhance collaboration and streamline IT functions. This move will be completed on December 12.

Ater these moves take place, no Durham College departments will remain at Campus Corners.

We appreciate your patience as we work through these transitions in the coming weeks.

Candy cane sales in support of the DC Food Access Bursary - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This holiday season, the Finance teams at Durham College and Ontario Tech University are thrilled to bring back our annual candy cane sales from November 12th to December 18th to support student relief initiatives. Proceeds will benefit the Durham College DC Food Access Bursary and the Ontario Tech University Student Relief Fund, providing essential assistance to students in need. Each online candy cane purchase qualifies you for a prize draw entry! The draw will take place on December 19th, with winners notified directly and announced on ICE, DC Digest, and the Ontario Tech Weekly report. Thank you for your generosity in helping to make the season brighter for our students.

With each candy cane, you will receive a chance to win one of several great prizes. Candy canes can be purchased for one for $5; three for $10; seven for $15; or ten for $20.

Note: You will require your Banner ID and Password to log into the website. Staff can purchase candy canes for friends and family and utilize that person's first and last name for draw, however they must only use their staff email address, phone number and extension and office number for all the other information. The candy canes will only be distributed internally via interoffice mail.

Volunteer with DC this season: Wrap for Hope – December 19 🎁 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Dear colleagues,

Durham College (DC) is proud to participate in Wrap for Hope this holiday season, an important community initiative supporting children and families across Durham Region.

On December 19, join us at the Oshawa Centre to help wrap gifts in support of Holiday Hope, the Durham Children's Aid Foundation's flagship program. Every dollar raised will help families experiencing financial hardship or crisis celebrate the season with dignity, joy, and a sense of belonging.

We invite DC employees to volunteer during their workday and give back to our community. This opportunity reflects our commitment to fostering engagement, volunteerism, and strengthening community connections, all while sharing the spirit of the season together.

Friday, December 19, 2025

Six two‑hour shifts, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Oshawa Centre, 419 King St. W., Oshawa

Space is limited and shifts will be filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis. To participate, please add your name to the sign‑up form here by December 18, 2025.

Supervisor approval is required before booking a time during work hours.

Join us in your DC green and help us make a difference in the lives of our community members!

November Payday Lottery Winner: Congratulations, Scott! - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is shared on behalf of Abbi Longo, Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

🎉 Congratulations, Scott Dennis! 🎉

We’re excited to announce that Scott Dennis is this month’s Payday Lottery Winner! Scott has won a total of $632.50, 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!

Recognizing the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, November 25 - Announcements, December 4, 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.

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a global campaign that runs until Human Rights Day on December 10. This is a time to raise awareness, honor survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to ending violence against women and girls.

At Durham College (DC), we recognize that all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) are a human rights issue. GBV impacts individuals across every community, including those within post-secondary institutions. While GBV can affect anyone, research consistently shows that certain groups experience violence at disproportionately higher rates. These include women and girls, two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer individuals, Indigenous women and girls, racialized women, women with disabilities, and those with intersecting identities. These heightened rates of violence are rooted in systemic inequities and discrimination.

As a post-secondary institution, we hold a unique position of influence and responsibility. Whether through our teaching, support services, leadership, or everyday interactions, we can help shape a campus culture where all forms of sexual and gender-based violence are not tolerated, survivors are supported, and everyone feels safe and respected.

Here's how:

LISTEN

Believe survivors. Create safe spaces for disclosures that are met with compassion. Understand that survivors are in our classrooms, offices, and communities.

LEARN

Educate yourself on what GBV looks like in post-secondary settings. Review DC's Sexual Violence Policy and explore resources from Safety Network of Durham Region, Victim Services Durham, Durham Regional Police Services, and The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. You can also register for our upcoming “Responding to Sexual Violence on Campus" employee training event that will be held during the winter semester. Watch out for registration details.

ACT

Apply what you learn. Challenge harmful language or behavior. Refer students and colleagues to support services. Advocate for inclusive and trauma-informed practices in your work. Finally, participate in training and prevention initiatives, like DC's memorial event for the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women to honor survivors and those lost to gender-based violence.

When: Thursday December 4

Where: Centre for Collaborative Education Room 145, The Rotary Global Classroom, Oshawa Campus

Time: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Whitby Campus members are welcome to join us from a designated viewing area in the Don Lovisa Building (details to come), where you can watch and take part in the Oshawa event from the comfort of your campus. If you'd prefer to attend in person at the Oshawa Campus, we'd love to see you there! Please join us in whichever way feels best for you.

Gender-based violence is not just a student issue, it's a workplace issue, a community issue, and a human rights issue. Together, we can foster a campus environment where everyone thrives free from violence.

Have you received a disclosure of sexual violence from a student? Have you witnessed an incident, or suspect one has occurred? Please MailScanner has detected a possible fraud attempt from "durhamcollege.ca" claiming to be email SVSupport@durhamcollege.ca  and refer to DC's Sexual Violence Policy for further information and support. 

If you are an employee who has been affected by sexual or 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 .  

For immediate help, please call:

Oshawa Campus: 905.721.2000 ext. 2400 or 905.721.3211

Whitby Campus: 905.721.2000 ext. 4098 or 905.721.3211

Or call 911 for Emergency Services 

Coffee Chats with Elaine - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

I welcome you to join me for an upcoming Coffee Chat in Oshawa or Whitby.

These small group chats are a chance to share ideas, ask questions, or simply have meaningful dialogue.

Spaces are limited to ensure we have time to connect more personally, so if I don't often get the chance to hear from you, I especially encourage you to join — your thoughts and ideas help shape the decisions we make to strengthen our college community.

Looking forward to connecting,

Please register to attend by Wednesday, November 26. Space is limited.

Monday, December 1

11 a.m. to noon

G213, Gordon Willey Building

Oshawa Campus

Wednesday, December 3

1 to 2 p.m.

WHY2-44, Don Lovisa Building

Whitby Campus

Campus Health and Wellness Centre - Flu Vaccines and Supports Available to Employees - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This time of year, many people start feeling run-down as stress increases and seasonal illness circulates. Prioritizing your health and wellness now can help you stay balanced and well through the busy weeks ahead.

We're here to keep our campus community healthy and supported.

Flu vaccines and walk-in appointments are now available for both staff and students — book your appointment today.

In addition to flu vaccines, our team is also available for:

Classroom presentations and workshops on a variety of topics

Faculty discussions about student supports and navigating student mental health

The CHWC is also available for

Entry Immunization Forms – now available to be booked online

Mental health appointments for students

General health services and campus resources

We are your partners in health and wellness here on campus and look forward to supporting you through this time.

Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday, 7:00–4:00

Book Now

chwc@durhamcollege.ca

Stay healthy, stay informed — book your flu shot today!

Reminder: Social Impact Hub hosts ‘Voices of Impact - Raising Resilient Families’, November 26 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Colleen McKay, Manager, Grants and Special Projects, Social Impact Hub.

On November 26, join the Social Impact Hub for an engaging presentation on Raising Resilient Families: Empowering Parents with Cognitive Challenges. With support from the College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF), this project examined the unique barriers and challenges faced by parents with cognitive challenges (such as intellectual and/or developmental disabilities or brain injuries) to co-create a proactive, evidence-based support model that addresses service gaps and strengthens families.

During this session, project co-lead Amanda Cappon and Vicky Caruana of the Starfish Parent Support Program will share insights from each phase of the project and discuss the value of co-production, exploring how researchers can amplify the voices of people with lived experience every step of the way.

Date: Wednesday, November 26

Time: 1 – 2 p.m.

Where: Social Impact Hub (Centre for Innovation and Research, Room 209)

Temporary Change to Weekly Cheque Run - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of Norah Warmuth.

As Financial Operations prepares to relocate from Campus Corners to main campus (C237) on December 3rd, please note an adjustment to our weekly cheque run schedule. To ensure there are no delays or disruptions in vendor payments, the cheque run will take place on Tuesday, December 2nd rather than our scheduled Wednesday.

Please ensure that all invoices are forwarded to accountspayable@durhamcollege.ca and expense reports to reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca no later than Friday, November 28th at noon.

The next scheduled cheque run will be Wednesday, December 10th, 2025.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this transition. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please contact Norah Warmuth.

Notice of Service Disruption – Entrance closure, Oshawa Campus - Announcements, December 4, 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: Stairwell #16 entrance (between L-Wing and C-Wing) will be closed for exterior restoration work. Please refer to the attached map for the affected areas.

When: November 24 – December 15

Details: Work areas will be fenced off with signs and barricades. Access will be restricted until the project is completed.

Durham College 2026 Job Fair Registration is now open with discounted rates until November 28, 2025 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

We are thrilled to announce that registration for our annual joint Durham College and Ontario Tech University 2026 Job Fair and Durham College 2026 Job Fair 2026 are NOW OPEN! These events bring together a diverse and talented pool of candidates from various program areas, offering your organization a unique opportunity to connect with potential hires with a wide range of skills and expertise.

Employers are encouraged to register between November 17 and 28, 2025, to receive a $75 savings on each registration. Standard registration rates will apply after November 28, 2025. Registration includes a booth for 2 representatives, parking, a light breakfast, lunch and networking opportunities.

Event Details:

Time for both events: 9:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. (with arrival and setup between 7:30 and 9 a.m.)

Durham College and Ontario Tech University (Oshawa Campus)

Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026

Early Registration Rate for one booth and 2 representatives:

$425 + HST, plus $30 per person for each additional representative.

Effective November 29 - Standard Rate for one booth and 2 representatives:

$500 + HST, plus $30 per person for each additional representative.

Durham College (Whitby Campus – Exclusively Durham College) - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Date: Thursday, February 12, 2025

Early Registration Rate for one booth and 2 representatives:

$175 + HST, plus $30 per person for each additional representative.

Effective November 29 - Standard Rate for one booth and 2 representatives:

$250 + HST, plus $30 per person for each additional representative.

Please register for this event at the links below:

Oshawa Job Fair Registration: https://ssp.mycampus.ca/apex/f?p=130:30

Whitby Job Fair Registration: https://ssp.mycampus.ca/apex/f?p=194:30

***Don't forget to mark these dates into your calendars and to let student's know.

Mature students are invited to explore Durham College: December 2 and 3 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

On December 2 and 3, Durham College (DC) is welcoming mature students to explore how DC can support them in taking the next step in their careers and learning journey. Mature students often balance work, family, and other commitments as they return to full-time or part-time studies, and this event is designed to provide the personalized guidance and resources they need to succeed.

The Mature Student Event offers participants a chance to:

Tour state-of-the-art facilities at DC's Oshawa and Whitby campuses.

Meet faculty representatives to learn about full-time and part-time programs and courses.

Receive one-on-one guidance on academic planning and support services tailored for mature learners.

Attend a panel featuring current mature students and DC employees to hear firsthand experiences and tips.

Those pursuing full-time studies will be entered in a draw for a $5,000 tuition credit or one of five $1,000 tuition credits.

Attendees pursuing part-time studies can visit the Professional and Part-time Learning booth to enter to win one of three free courses.\

Apply during the event and we will cover the $150 application fee to DC programs.

Event Details:

Oshawa Campus

Tuesday, December 2, 6 to 8 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Centre for Innovation and Research

Whitby Campus

Wednesday, December 3, 6 to 8 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Don Lovisa Building

Help us spread the word!

If you know someone who is 19+ and is considering returning to college, encourage them to attend the Mature Student Event. Please share this information with your networks and invite them to explore the opportunities, supports, and resources DC offers mature learners.

End of Semester Event in South Village Dining Hall - Finale Under the Stars - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Chartwells will be hosting Finale Under the Stars - a special, dining experience in the South Village Dining Hall on Wednesday, November 26th from 3:30pm - 6:30pm to celebrate the end of the semester. This event will feature a premium menu curated for the occasion with interactive stations and a lively dining experience that blends both food and entertainment beneath the lights. There will be live music and other activities to compliment the event. Some of the menu will include Seared Beef Tenderloin, Braised Endive with Vegan Lemon Butter Sauce, Korean Shortribs and a made-to-order Crème Brulee created by our own Sous Chef and much much more!

This dinner service is included for meal plan holders and for any walk-ins, the cost is the exclusive price of $16.49 + HST.

Double your impact to the student Food Access Bursary - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. Please direct any inquiries to Abbi Longo, Development Officer.

Over the past decade, dedicated Durham College (DC) employees have come together to make a special impact on the lives of students by supporting them and their families during the holiday season. At DC, we have established a Food Access Bursary to provide immediate assistance to students facing food insecurity. Last year, thanks to our community's generosity, $165,700 was distributed through DC's Food Access Bursary, supporting nearly 1,000 students in need.

“This time of year can bring added challenges for students away from family or managing expenses on their own," says Tara Koski, Dean, Students. “This bursary helps ensure students can enjoy a nourishing meal and feel supported within our college community."

Thanks to the support of the Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA), you can double your impact. The DCAA will be matching donations up to a total of $10,000 toward the Food Access Bursary from now until January 1.

How can you help?

Make a direct donation online. When filling out the form, please select “Food Access Bursary" from the designation list. All donations over $20 will receive a tax receipt.

Enter the employee Candy Cane Raffle by buying tickets online. You will be required to enter your network login/Banner ID to access the raffle page. All funds raised will support the Food Access Bursary.

As we approach the holiday season, we want to thank you for your consideration and help to continue this tradition, extending our support to those who need it most.

Vanessa Ng, Desson Spencer named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Vanessa Ng of the curling 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 November 23, 2025.

Ng, a Dental Assisting student, stepped up in a huge way at the Lords' season-opening bonspiel. A dual-sport athlete who is new to curling, she filled out the lineup for the men's team and helped DC win two of three matches. Her delivery, communication and confidence improved with every end. Determined, positive and relentlessly team-focused, she kept the group energized and locked in through every challenge.

Spencer, a Trades Fundamentals student, had a double-double performance in Durham's 83-54 win over the St. Lawrence Surge on Friday, putting up 12 points and grabbing a team-leading 13 rebounds. Spencer recorded double-digit rebounds of the third time this season, while also blocking a season-high three shots.

The curling teams are off to Thornhill on Saturday, November 29 for the University of Toronto Intercollegiate Bonspiel. The women's team are scheduled to play at 9:30 AM, 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM against the Algoma Thunderbirds, Humber Hawks and TMU Bold.

The men's basketball team round out the fall semester on Tuesday, November 25 against the Loyalist Lancers at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre at 8:00 PM.

John Watkins inducted into Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Durham College men's rugby head coach John Watkins was inducted into the Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame as a builder on November 22 in Mississauga.

Since joining Durham College ahead of the 2017 exhibition season, Watkins has played a pivotal role in establishing the Lords as one of the premier collegiate rugby programs in Ontario. In the team's official entry to OCAA competition in 2018-19, Durham captured OCAA gold, marking an immediate statement under Watkins' leadership.

Over his tenure, Watkins has guided the Lords to three OCAA gold medals, a silver medal, and two bronze medals, consistently keeping the program among the conference's elite. His impact extends beyond the team's collective achievements, when five players were named OCAA all-stars in Durham's first full season back in league play, setting a high standard for future squads.

Watkins' influence on the game stretches far beyond the campus grounds. A cornerstone of the local rugby community, he has served as president of the Oshawa Vikings since 2000 and president of Toronto Rugby, while also contributing to the Rugby Ontario Board of Directors from 2012 to 2014. In recognition of his long-standing commitment, he received the Rugby Ontario Volunteer Award in 2009.

Before joining the Lords, Watkins' coaching resume included extensive success with the Oshawa Vikings Rugby Club, leading the U-14 boys to consecutive provincial finals (2012–14) and guiding the U-16 squad to a provincial championship in 2015. His leadership helped the Vikings earn Rugby Ontario's Junior Boys Club Program of the Year award in 2014.

He has also made a lasting mark in high school rugby, first with Henry Street High School and later at Maxwell Heights Secondary School.

Established in 1999, the Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame recognizes players, coaches, officials, and community leaders who have made exceptional contributions to the sport across the province. Watkins joins a distinguished class of honourees, becoming one of just over 100 inductees to be enshrined since the Hall's inception.

This Week in International Education - New Off-Campus Trip - Announcements, December 4, 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:

Discover Camp Samac in Oshawa—163 acres of scenic forest offering hiking trails and year-round outdoor adventures. Students are invited to 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). Students who want to participate can register here.

This week, we will host the second GISE workshop in collaboration with the Career Development office. This workshop will focus on Strategies for Effective Interviewing: From Preparation to Execution. If you know any graduating international students interested in gaining Canadian work experience, please help share this opportunity! The registration link can be found on our Linktree page.

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

Upcoming Change to Our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice-President, Human Resources and Equity.

Effective January 1, 2026, Durham College's (DC) Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider will transition from TELUS Health to Homewood Health.

Homewood Health was chosen as the new service provider for DC and other Ontario colleges after a competitive bidding process, led by the College Employer Council.

With this new provider, DC employees will continue to benefit from confidential, professional support for a wide range of personal and work-related issues.

Homewood Health offers several new and enhanced services, including:

Faster, more accessible access to counselling: Appointments can be made by phone or through Homewood's online scheduling portal. Employees can choose a time that works best for them. Appointments can be made 24/7.

Personalized counselor matching: Employees will now have the ability to request specific counselor attributes like gender, cultural background, and specialization, to ensure a personalized fit.

Seamless continuation of care: For those with benefits that cover paramedical services, employees can continue counselling services beyond the annual allocation by submitting claims directly to SunLife. This service will allow a continuation of care without the need to find a new counsellor.

Expanded mental health and addiction supports: As Homewood Health is specialized in both addictions and mental health, they offer in-patient and out-patient programming outside of the EFAP. Homewood Health counsellors can make referrals for further treatment, and direct employees to community resources. They can also provide bridging support to specialized care.

Human Resources is working with both TELUS Health and Homewood, to ensure the EFAP service transition will be seamless over the holiday period.

Please watch for a communication in December which will include details about Homewood Health's services and how employees can set-up access.

Any questions can be directed to Leigh-Ann Harper, Talent Development Advisor.

Accessing and navigating the new employee self-service platform - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

As I recently shared, the new Employee Self-Service platform is launching on Monday, December 1. The new platform features a personalized dashboard where employees can view and manage personal information, including address, phone number and emergency contact details. To get started, below are some details on how to access and navigate the platform.

Accessing the platform

Employees can log in to the platform using their Banner ID and network password. The Self-Service link will be available through:

ICE:

Human Resources and Equity/HRIS

Self-Service options

Durham College Mobile app:

Self-Service card

myDC (for student employees)

Learning Resources

All employees are encouraged to review the General User Guide before using the new platform. It includes:

An overview of the dashboard and instructions on navigating it

Step-by-step instructions for key tasks

Answers to common questions

The Guide can also be accessed on ICE under Human Resources and Equity/HRIS/Procedures.

For general support, please contact Human Resources and Equity at HRIS-Attendance@durhamcollege.ca or the IT Service Desk for technical support at servicedesk@dc-uoit.ca or ext. 3333.

Winners of the College Policy and Procedure Awareness Quiz - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the quiz; however, we're excited to share the winners of our recent Policy and Procedure Awareness Quiz are:

David Stapley, faculty, Faculty of Business and Information Technology

Felix Todica, faculty, Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship

Congratulations to our winners! Your engagement helps strengthen our commitment to policy awareness and best practices across the organizaiton.

The 10 Days of Deals Are BACK at the Campus Store ! - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Sleigh the savings, team ! The holidays just got even brighter!

From December 1–12, the Campus Store is bringing back our 10 Days of Deals event, and this year’s offers are better than ever.

Each morning, we’ll reveal the Deal of the Day on our website and on Instagram @dccampusstore. It’s the perfect chance to snag your favourite item or pick up a thoughtful gift for someone special.

Help us spread the cheer and make sure you're following along, you won’t want to miss what’s coming!

Let the savings begin! 🎄🛍️

Get into the holiday spirit with DC - Announcements, December 4, 2025

The holiday season has arrived, and there are plenty of opportunities to get into the festive spirit at Durham College (DC)!

Support the Food Access Bursary

The Food Access Bursary provides vital assistance to students facing financial challenges. Every year, our DC community rallies behind this program to help students and their families enjoy a brighter holiday season. Thanks to last year's generous contributions, the bursary distributed nearly $166,000 in support of almost 1,000 students.

The generosity of our DC community is always inspiring. This year, the Durham College Alumni Association is once again matching the first $10,000 donated, and the Durham College Student Association will donate up to $40,000 depending on need.

You can make a direct online contribution until January 1. Be sure to select “Food Access Bursary" as the designation. Tax receipts are issued for donations over $20.

Employees can also take part in the Candy Cane Raffle by purchasing tickets online. Network login/Banner ID is required to access the page. All proceeds go directly to the Bursary.

Send DC Holiday ecards

Choose from a selection of DC holiday ecards, personalize your message, and send warm seasonal greetings to friends, colleagues, and loved ones. It's an easy way to share your DC pride!

Enjoy Turkey-on-a-Bun

Join us for the annual Turkey-on-a-Bun holiday lunch on Tuesday, December 16, where the Durham College Leadership Team (DCLT) will be serving up a festive meal. It's a great chance to catch up with colleagues, so register by December 11. Be sure to check out the Pantry gift table to get a head start on your holiday shopping!

Take time to relax with loved ones

To ensure employees can fully enjoy the holidays, DC will close at the end of the day on Tuesday, December 23, reopening on Monday, January 5, 2026. All buildings will be closed during this time, with the exception of the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (CRWC), including the FLEX (with holiday hours), which will reopen on Friday, January 2, 2026, to support weekend activities.

Enjoy the holiday season, at DC!

Get to know DC: Meet the Test Centre Team - Announcements, December 4, 2025

At the Durham College Test Centre, students can write their exams in a comfortable environment where their individual accessibility needs are met.

Supporting them is a team comprised of Catherine Hayes, Associate Director, Test Centre and Student Academic Learning Services; Testing Coordinators Marisa Mazzotta and Lori Wilson; and over 20 part-time proctors.

At the Oshawa Campus you’ll find them in Room B291 of the Gordon Willey Building, and in Whitby they’re located in the Don Lovisa Building, Office 181.

What does your team do?

We offer a wide range of testing services for current and prospective Durham College students. Our primary focus is accommodated testing; however, we also support DC students who require missed test services. In addition, we host external clients for Ministry examinations (such as Apprenticeship and Mobile Crane tests), external post-secondary assessments from other institutions, and pre-admission testing for future DC students. We have a small but mighty full-time team, as well as a fantastic group of part-time proctors that work hard to deliver a positive experience.

What is a recent highlight for your team and why?

We are proud of the improvements we have made over the last few years to modernize and simplify processes. We utilize a booking system for external clients and missed tests which has improved the testing experience for students and faculty.

What are questions your team commonly receives and the answers?

Are you open evenings and weekends?

Yes, if students have evening tests we operate until 10 p.m. and on occasional weekends for the FLEX nursing and PSW programs.

Students and faculty often have questions about booking, processes etc.

We encourage anyone with questions to pop in to our office as we are more than happy to help.

What DC policies does your team oversee?

We are currently developing a missed assessment policy to guide students and faculty. We also have our own departmental policies related to testing which can be found on the website.

Recognize National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women at DC on Thursday, December 4 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

December 6 marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, honouring the 14 women who lost their lives in the 1989 École Polytechnique de Montréal tragedy.

On Thursday, December 4, Durham College (DC) will recognize this solemn day with an event at the Oshawa Campus. At 11 a.m. in the Rotary Global Classroom (Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 145), students and employees are invited to reflect on the impact of gender-based violence and commit to positive change.

The event includes memorial readings, a symbolic student-led gesture, a pledge activity, and a performance by Aqua Nibii Waawasskone.

The event will be livestreamed for those who can't attend in person. At our Whitby campus, there will be a viewing area in Room 1-12 of the Don Lovisa Building.

With remarks from college leaders and support from the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, this gathering reaffirms DC's commitment to a safe and inclusive campus community.

Thursday, December 4

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Rotary Global Classroom (Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 145)

Get ready for more fun and something cozy at the Campus Store! - Announcements, December 4, 2025

We’re excited to share that, in collaboration with the On the Shelf podcast, we are launching Blind Date With a Book starting today!

Employees and students can stop by the Campus Store to:

- Choose a wrapped mystery book

- Enjoy a warm cup of hot cocoa

- All for just $5

The On the Shelf podcast will be announcing the launch today

as well, so keep an eye out for the buzz!

This is a great chance to encourage your teams and students to drop by, warm up with a treat, and discover a surprising new read. Thank you for helping us spread the word!

Let’s communicate better: Complete the Internal Communications Survey - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Communications and Marketing.

At Durham College (DC), our commitment to being a people-centred organization means ensuring that you have the information you need – when you need it – to stay informed, connected, and engaged, and to feel valued as a vital part of our community.

We want to know if our internal communications channels, including ICE, DC Digest and all-employee emails, are effective for you. Your feedback will help us understand what's working well, where we can improve, and how to make internal communications more valuable and meaningful for you.

Please complete this survey by Thursday, December 11. Thank you for sharing your ideas and insights.

CAAT Pension Session – Service Purchase Education for the Strike Period - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Please be advised that CAAT pension is holding a virtual session for support staff to offer service purchase education regarding the strike period.

The next session is December 4, 2025 from 12pm-1pm. The link to register as well as some additional FAQs about your pension and the strike period can be found on CAAT pension's website at the link below.

Your pension after the 2025 OPSEU Support Staff Strike

College Wellness Committee releases revised Mental Health and Well-being Framework - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, associate vice-president, Human Resources and Equity and Tara Koski, dean, Students. Questions can be directed to healthpromotion@durhamcollege.ca.

The College Wellness Committee (CWC) is pleased to share that it has completed a comprehensive review of the Mental Health & Well-Being Framework. It is based on the National Standard of Canada and supports Durham College's efforts to enhance student and employee mental health.

The revised framework strengthens the college's commitment to fostering a healthy, supportive, and psychologically safe environment for all employees and students. It also provides clear guidance on promoting well-being, reducing risks, and coordinating campus-wide mental health initiatives.

Thank you to the CWC members and partners across the college who contributed their expertise to this important work. We look forward to continued collaboration as we advance our shared priority of mental health and well-being.

The updated framework is available on the college's Are You Okay webpage which also hosts information about campus and community supports and resources.

December Clothing Swap Community Day on December 10 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Looking for an opportunity to land on Santa’s nice list this year? Join Campus Recreation and the FEMFLEX Studio at our December Clothing Swap Community Day!

Location: G2016, 2nd floor of the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre

Date: Wednesday, December 10

Time: 4 to 6 p.m.

RSVP: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=pKe7SUtCcECnDohundfK75vDUsohDAxOpor_8aUGDCNUNkdSUjhBUE9LTklMNlNXRExEN1JIVVhGOS4u

We will be hosting a gently loved clothing swap in the “spirit of giving” with holiday crafts, movie, and popcorn. Bring up to ten articles of clothing and take up to three home with you. Anything leftover items will be donated to St. Vincent’s Oshawa.

Upgraded employee Self-Service portal now live - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of IT Services. Please direct inquiries to the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@dc-uoit.ca or call 905.721.3333.

As a follow-up to our November 6 communication, we are pleased to announce that Durham College's (DC) upgraded Self-Service portal is now live. The modern, user-friendly system is designed to simplify common tasks, improve accessibility, and provide a seamless experience on desktop and mobile devices.

What's new

The upgraded Self-Service portal consolidates links previously accessed through ICE and MyDC into a single, integrated platform, providing a clearer, more intuitive layout.

Key areas include:

Employee Self-Service – A personalized dashboard where employees can:

View personal information (address, phone number, emergency contacts)

View leave balances for yourself or your team

Submit and approve web time entries more efficiently

Please note: Due to an issue identified in the Banner upgrade process, personal details in Employee Self-Service are currently view-only. Employees will be unable to make updates at this time, contrary to our earlier communication. The system vendor is working on a fix, and we will provide an update once it is resolved. In the meantime, employees should continue using the existing Human Resources process by submitting a change form, available on ICE under Human Resources and Equity > Related Forms.

Advisor/Faculty Self-Service – A streamlined interface for academic advisors, faculty, and administrative coordinators to:

Access student advising information for a consolidated view of student data and academic history

Use the Faculty Self-Service module for administrative tasks with improved usability and efficiency

Need help? IT Support is available at 905.721.3333 or through the Service Desk portal.

Thank you for your support as we launch this enhanced Self-Service experience.

Elizabeth McFarland, Rashane Smith named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Elizabeth 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 November 30, 2025.

McFarland, an Accounting - Business Transfer student, had a pair of standout performances last week as the women's volleyball team defeated Fleming on the road, and St. Lawrence at home, both in three sets. Against Fleming, McFarland hit seven kills on 17 total attempts for a .294 hitting percentage, along with seven digs, three assists and a solo block for 8.0 points. She had a season-high 17.0 points against St. Lawrence on Saturday, recording 12 kills on 24 attempts, five digs, four blocks and s service ace.

Smith, a Fitness & Health Promotion student, had his best game of the season in a 105-80 win over the Loyalist Lancers to finish the fall semester strong. He posted season-high totals in points and rebounds with 20 and 10, respectively, and added two assists, a pair of steals, and a block to his stat line.

The women's volleyball team host their annual Adidas Cup from January 3-4, 2026, where they will take on the Mohawk Mountaineers, André-Laurendeau Boomerang, and St. Clair Saints in round robin play.

The men's basketball team return to action in Scarborough on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 8:00 PM against the Centennial Colts.

Three DC women's rugby players compete on international stage - Announcements, December 4, 2025

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

Three Durham Lords athletes, current and former, competed on the international stage as Megan Bent (Barbados), Shay Morris (Jamaica), and Sierra Persaud (Guyana) headed to Arima, Trinidad and Tobago for the 2025 Rugby Americas North Sevens.

With the tournament's top two teams earning qualification to the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, it marks another major milestone in the growing list of achievements for three standout players who helped shape one of the most decorated eras for a program in DC history.

Bent, representing Barbados, enters the event after completing her fifth season with the Lords. The Oshawa native and O'Neill Collegiate and Vocational Institute graduate built one of the most decorated résumés in program history, capturing five OCAA medals in five years.

Morris continues her rise on the international scene as she suits up for Jamaica for the second straight year. The Ajax native and Pickering High School graduate played four seasons for the Lords from 2021-2024 and delivered a legacy-defining career.

She won four OCAA medals, including one silver and three gold, earned OCAA Championship MVP honours twice in 2022 and 2024, and finished second all-time at Durham College in career points.

Persaud's story adds another meaningful chapter to the tournament. Representing Guyana, the Ajax native and Pickering High School graduate played her lone season with the Lords in 2023, helping Durham capture provincial gold.

She fell in love with rugby after watching the 2016 Summer Olympics and committed herself to the sport as soon as she reached high school. Her path to the Guyana National Team began at the St. Lucia Caribcation event, where competing against Guyanese opponents sparked conversations that opened the door for her to represent her family's home country.

She also credits Durham College for helping shape her growth as both a player and a person, noting that her time with the Lords challenged her in ways she didn't expect and helped her understand the type of environment she needs to thrive.

Candy cane sales in support of the DC Food Access Bursary - Announcements, November 20, 2025

With each candy cane, you will receive a chance to win one of several great prizes. Candy canes can be purchased for one for $5; three for $10; seven for $15; or ten for $20.

*Note* You will require your Banner ID and Password to log into the website. Staff can purchase candy canes for friends and family and utilize that person's first and last name for draw, however they must only use their staff email address, phone number and extension and office number for all the other information. The candy canes will only be distributed internally via interoffice mail.

Durham College recognizes Remembrance Day - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

We come together today at Durham College (DC) and across Canada to reflect and express gratitude, honouring those who have served, and continue to serve, our country in times of war, conflict, and peace. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice have shaped the freedoms and opportunities we hold dear.

As we mark Remembrance Day and reflect on the contributions of those who served, we are reminded that their legacy lives on through our shared commitment to building a compassionate, respectful, and inclusive community here at DC.

All students and employees are invited to attend an Act of Remembrance ceremony being held today at 10:45 a.m., co-organized by the Durham College Student Association and the Ontario Tech Student Union.

Oshawa Campus: Gyms 1 & 2, Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre. This ceremony will also be available by livestream.

Whitby campus: Atrium, Don Lovisa Building Atrium.

Wherever you are today, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect and remember. Wear a poppy, observe the 11 a.m. silence, and consider the meaning of service, sacrifice, and peace in your own life.

In recognition of this significant day, the flags at both our campuses have been lowered, as we honour those who came before us. May we carry forward their legacy through our actions of courage, resilience, and service, every day.

This week in International Education: Meet us at The Pit - Announcements, November 20, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Janine Knight-Grofe, Director, International Education. If you have questions, please email Dandan Shi 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 ISA Hour and our Second Program Application Pop-Up event are both happening this week. International students who are interested in doing another program at DC are welcome to stop by at The PIT, Oshawa Campus between 11am and 3pm on Wednesday, November 12. They may also get one-on-one support from the Credit Transfer team, and an ISA will be there to answer questions as well. No pre-registration is required. Need more information to share with your students? Check HERE.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram @durhamcollegeinternational for more information on upcoming events.

Upcoming service outage to Banner from November 21 to 24, 2025 - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of IT Services. Please direct inquiries to the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@dc-uoit.ca or call extension 3333.

All Durham College (DC) employees and students are advised that as part of our commitment to maintaining optimal systems and operations, an outage of Banner/MyDC and related systems will occur from Friday, November 21 at 5 p.m. to Monday, November 24 at 8 a.m.

In the event an extended outage is required, systems will be brought back online on Tuesday, November 25 at 6 a.m. Further communication will be distributed should this circumstance arise.

This outage will accommodate an upgrade to the core administrative information system shared by DC and Ontario Tech University.

During the outage, all Banner self-service applications will not be available, including:

Web Time Entry

Adding/dropping classes

Advisor services

Applicant portal

Application to graduate

Course book lists

Fee statements

Financial Aid profile

Grades

Password changes

Preview available courses

Student account/fee info and credit card payments

Student/faculty schedule

Student exam schedule

SWF

Web transcripts

The following services will be available with little or no impact during the outage:

MyDC (excluding administrative self-service applications listed previously)

DC Connect

Wireless network (CAMPUS-AIR)

OneCard (ID card database)

Student email accounts

Targeted messages and announcements

email, ICE, ADP and SilkRoad

There will be limited availability to:

Blackboard transact (meal plan)

Class (Athletics)

Clockwork (new students who have never used the system will not be able to use the system)

Campus Library software

Cognos (data will not be refreshed until Banner upgrade is complete)

November 16th: Louis Riel Day: Honouring a Métis Leader and His Legacy - Announcements, November 20, 2025

On November 16, DC will commemorate Louis Riel Day, a date that marks the anniversary of Louis Riel's execution in 1885. Riel was a visionary leader of the Métis Nation, a founder of Manitoba, and a central figure in Canada's history whose efforts shaped the rights and identity of the Métis people.

Riel led two major resistance movements: the Red River Resistance (1869–1870) and the Northwest Resistance (1885), to defend Métis land, language, and cultural rights during a time of rapid Canadian expansion. His leadership resulted in the creation of Manitoba as Canada's fifth province through the Manitoba Act, which guaranteed certain protections for Métis people, including minority language rights. These achievements reflected Riel's vision of a Canada that embraced diversity and respected Indigenous and Métis communities.

Despite these contributions, Riel was charged with treason and executed on November 16, 1885, following the Northwest Resistance. His death was a profound injustice that stigmatized the Métis as traitors for generations, forcing many to hide their identity. Yet, Métis communities persevered, preserving their culture and traditions against adversity. Today, Louis Riel is widely recognized as a patriot, defender of Métis rights, and a Father of Confederation.

Why This Day Matters

Louis Riel Day is more than a historical remembrance, it is a celebration of Métis resilience, culture, and contributions to Canada. Across the country, ceremonies, cultural events, and educational activities highlight Métis traditions such as jigging, fiddle music, and storytelling. These gatherings foster understanding of Métis heritage and encourage reflection on Canada's ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

For colleges, observing Louis Riel Day is an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about Indigenous history and rights. It reminds us that reconciliation begins with learning and acknowledging shared histories. Riel's vision of an inclusive Canada remains relevant today as we strive to build equitable relationships with Indigenous communities.

Key Facts About Louis Riel

Born: October 22, 1844, in Red River Settlement (now Manitoba)

Role: Political leader of the Métis Nation; founder of Manitoba

Major Achievements: Led Red River and Northwest Resistances; negotiated Manitoba's entry into Confederation

Executed: November 16, 1885, in Regina, Saskatchewan

Legacy: Advocate for Métis rights, cultural preservation, and minority protections

Campus Winter Weather Procedures - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Emergency Management Response Team (EMRT).

Each winter in Ontario, weather conditions such as heavy snow, freezing rain and/or ice pellets can make travel difficult. During such situations, questions often arise about whether campus operations will change.

During most winter weather, the campus remains open and activities remain unaffected. It's important to keep in mind that different organizations — public and private — follow their own protocols and best practices. When they make the decision to cancel operations or to close, please remember that Durham College (DC) operations and activities may remain scheduled as usual.

How DC communicates weather-related operational changes

If operational changes are implemented due to a winter storm warning or inclement conditions, DC will communicate as soon as possible using email, the college's campus status website, social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn), and the DC Mobile App.

Travelling to campus

On severe winter weather days, please check your DC email and monitor the mobile app, social media channels and website for late evening and early morning updates. If you are travelling to or from campus, allow for plenty of time and travel with caution and care. If you are in an area heavily affected by the weather and cannot get to campus, contact your supervisor or professor regarding your absence.

On campus

If you observe a snow or ice hazard on campus, report it to Campus Security at ext. 2400 or 905.721.3211 and provide the exact location and situation.

NOTICE OF SERVICE DISRUPTION – WHITBY CAMPUS - DOORS WILL BE UNACCESSIBLE - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety. Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa Building at the Auto Shop and PROTO.

What: Concrete and Asphalt Installation

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

When: Friday November 14 to Monday November 20, 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:

Don Lovisa Main Entrance

Don Lovisa – Entrance by Shipping/Receiving

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

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

Thank you for making this year’s Fall Open House our Best. Event. Ever. - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

Almost 3,500 prospective students and their families filled Durham College's (DC) campuses with energy and excitement during our Fall Open House this past Saturday, making this our largest Open House to date. It simply could not happen without the support of every one of you who contributes!

Your efforts, whether through answering questions, leading sessions, or simply sharing your enthusiasm, helped create meaningful experiences that inspire students to choose DC. From lively conversations in classrooms and labs to interactive demonstrations and campus tours, the day truly showcased the best of what DC has to offer.

As a testament to the impact of your efforts, 877 students applied to DC programs on the spot, resulting in more than 2,000 new applications for the January, May and September 2026 intakes, as applicants can apply to up to three of our programs. In addition, 78 students confirmed their offer of admission during the event.

Events like this are made possible through the dedication and collaboration of so many teams, our Faculties, Student Services, and administrative departments, including Grounds, the Print Shop, ITS, Facilities, Housekeeping, Campus Security, Parking, and, of course, our amazing student volunteers. Your participation left a lasting impression on our guests.

Thank you again for your hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment to making Open House an unforgettable experience for our future students!

College Policy and Procedure Quiz for May to November 2025 - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy, Office of the President.

Did you know all college policies and procedures are reviewed on an established schedule and approved by the Durham College Leadership Team (DCLT)?

Take a look at which college policies were approved or renewed by DCLT between May and November 2025.

Then, test your knowledge for a chance to win a prize. Complete this quiz by 4:30 p.m., Friday, November 21, 2025. Two winners will be drawn randomly from submissions received and notified by email.

Join us for DC’s annual holiday lunch - Announcements, November 20, 2025

The holiday season is a time to reconnect, celebrate, and share in the spirit of togetherness. At Durham College, we embrace that spirit by bringing our DC family together for our annual Turkey-on-a-Bun Holiday Luncheon.

On Tuesday, December 16, we invite you to join us at the South Village Dining Hall for a festive meal served by the Durham College Leadership Team. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious food and catch up with friends and colleagues. Vegan, vegetarian, halal and gluten-free options will be available.

To accommodate everyone, we are offering two seating times – 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. For those who love to get into the holiday spirit, we encourage you to wear your classic ugly sweater.

This tradition has become a cherished part of our campus culture, and we look forward to seeing you there. Please register by Thursday, December 11.

DATE: Tuesday, December 16

TIME: 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

LOCATION: South Village Dining Hall, Oshawa Campus

RSVP: Register by Thursday, December 11

Green & Gold Sale at CRWC from November 17-21 - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

We’re letting staff and students know that the Green & Gold Sale is coming next week, offering a wide selection of Durham Lords apparel at clearance pricing. The sale will include hoodies, jackets, t-shirts, pants and other past-season and specialty pieces, giving everyone a great opportunity to rep the green and gold on campus, at games or around the community.

The Green & Gold Sale will take place on the ground floor of the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (CRWC), just outside of Gym 3 from Monday, November 17 through Friday, November 21. Hours of operation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day.

Every item will be priced under $10 (debit and credit sales only), and all inventory must go.

All are encouraged to stop by, browse what’s available and take advantage of these deals while they last.

Update to Vacation Carry-Over Limits - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

To support Durham College's (DC) financial sustainability and uphold our commitment to a healthy, balanced workplace, we communicated last spring that all support and administrative staff were to reduce their vacation balances to a maximum of five days by March 31, 2026. This target was part of DC's broader strategy to manage budget pressures and ensure responsible financial stewardship.

As you may have heard in this week's Town Halls, due to in-year increases in grants and lower-than-budgeted expenses, we are projecting a small surplus relative to the approved budget. This positive variance allows us to increase the vacation liability provision, and as a result, we have reassessed this year's vacation balance carry-over limits. We are pleased to share that administrative and support staff employees may now carry forward up to 10 unused vacation days beyond March 31, 2026. We hope this will be welcome news, especially since many employees' vacation plans and balances were affected by the recent work stoppage.

Supervisors will continue working closely with employees to review balances and develop vacation usage plans that align with operational needs while ensuring vacation is taken in line with this direction. We encourage all staff to stay engaged in these conversations and proactively plan their time off.

Thank you for your continued commitment to managing vacation time responsibly and for supporting a healthy workplace.

Sharing news regarding the passing of Kerry Doyle-Brownell, Student Advisor, Faculty of Media, Art and Design - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

Dear colleagues,

It is with deep sadness that I share news of the recent passing of our colleague, Kerry Doyle-Brownell, Student Advisor in the Faculty of Media, Art and Design (MAD).

Kerry has been a valued member of the Durham College (DC) community for more than 30 years. Since joining the college in 1994 as a Support Services Officer, she has supported the Faculty of Media, Art and Design her entire career.

Kerry offered kind and compassionate support to every student she guided, helping them navigate their educational journeys and achieve both personal and academic success. She had a special ability to make students feel seen, heard, and encouraged, no matter their challenges. Her kindness extended beyond her work with students – Kerry was a respected colleague, known for her genuine nature, warm smile, and steady willingness to lend a hand wherever it was needed. Her positivity, generosity of spirit, and quiet strength left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.

At this time, funeral arrangements have not been confirmed. Details will be shared by email once they are available.

DC flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours to honour Kerry's life. Please join me in thinking of Kerry's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.

Support is available for our DC community during times of loss. If you need counselling or support, I encourage you to reach out to 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.

2067-2027 Budget - Live - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Marsha Laverdiere, Executive Director, Financial Operations.

The 2026-2027 Budget module is now available for input in the FAST system. The module can be accessed online at https://fast.durhamcollege.ca. All supplementary documents and forms required to complete the budget can be found on ICE.

Input into the 2026-2027 budget is required by Monday, December 15, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.

Please direct any questions to Marsha Laverdiere.

Strengthening cybersecurity efforts: Required online training for employees - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of IT Information Security.

As part of Durham College's (DC) ongoing efforts to enhance our cybersecurity measures, we are partnering with KnowBe4 to offer an online security awareness training module for all employees.

The training was launched earlier this year, and we appreciate those who have already completed it. For anyone who has not yet done so, the completion deadline has been extended to March 31, 2026.

Phishing attacks are one of the most common and effective tactics used to gain unauthorized access to sensitive personal and organizational information and can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage. This training is designed to raise employees' awareness of potential security incidents and the required actions to take.

Next week, employees who still need to complete the training will receive an email from KnowBe4, sent from Durham College IT Services (do-not-reply@durhamcollege.ca) with a unique training invitation. The training takes approximately 15 minutes to complete online, and participation is automatically recorded in the KnowBe4 portal.

Simulated phishing emails will be sent to employees to assess the effectiveness of the training and improved knowledge.

If you have any questions, please contact the IT Service Desk Team at servicedesk@dc-ot.ca or call 905-721-3333.

Thank you for your efforts in helping to protect DC against cybersecurity threats.

Oke, Elliott named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

Chelsea Oke of the women's volleyball team and Jasean Elliott of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending November 16, 2025.

Oke, a Sport Management student, put together a dominant weekend as the Lords rolled to back-to-back three-set sweeps. Across five sets played, she totalled 15 kills on 37 swings with only five attack errors, while adding 14 digs and two solo blocks on the defensive side. She was perfect from the service line with three aces and no errors, finishing the weekend with a team-high 20.0 points.

Elliott, a Child and Youth Care student, delivered a standout week of his own, highlighted by a triple-double in the Lords' 84-70 win at George Brown. He posted 24 points, 13 rebounds, 10 assists and seven steals, leading the team in all four categories. Earlier in the week at home against Centennial, he shared the team-lead with 16 points and contributed five rebounds, four assists, four steals and a block to cap off a strong two-game stretch.

The women's volleyball team travel to Peterborough on Wednesday, November 26 to face the Fleming Phoenix at 6:00 PM, before rounding out the fall semester with a home match against the St. Lawrence Surge on Saturday, November 29 at 1:00 PM.

The men's basketball team close out their fall campaign with back-to-back home games, facing the Surge on Friday, November 21 at 8:00 PM and the Loyalist Lancers on Tuesday, November 25 at 8:00 PM.

DC men's rugby team earn silver at 2025 OCAA Men's Rugby Championship - Announcements, November 20, 2025

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

The Durham Lords battled through snowy, cold conditions on Sunday at Thompson Rugby Park in the OCAA men's rugby gold medal match against the Humber Hawks, ultimately concluding the season with a silver medal result after a 26-14 loss to Humber.

Despite the result, Durham walked off the pitch with several standout performances. Aiden Torrance and Emmanuel Milfort were named Championship All-Stars, a reflection of their consistency, impact and leadership throughout the season.

With Sunday's silver, the Lords add their sixth medal since joining OCAA men's rugby in 2018, now owning three gold, two bronze and their first-ever silver in program history.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - November 4, 2025 - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Please see the most recent update from the College Employer Council regarding the ratification of a renewed collective agreement by Full-Time Support Staff.

Message from the CEC, November 4, 2025

As a reminder, all communications related to bargaining are available on the ICE homepage under the header Bargaining Communications and Impacts.

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

This week in International Education: Study permit workshop and GISE - Announcements, November 12, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Janine Knight-Grofe, Director, International Education. If you have questions, please email Dandan Shi 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:

International students in their final semester are automatically enrolled in the Graduating International Student Experience (GISE) course on DC Connect. This course provides essential information for graduating international students, along with resources to support their career development in Canada or abroad. If students have questions about GISE, please encourage them to join our International Ask-Us-Anything drop-in sessions:

Tuesdays, 9:30-10:00AM (ET)

Thursdays, 3:00-3:30PM (ET)

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. To support them, we’re hosting a hybrid immigration workshop on November 12. Students can register HERE and choose to attend in person (CIR102, Oshawa Campus) or online for this Extending Study Permit & Understanding “Maintained Status” workshop. Please help spread the word! For those who can’t make it, the recording of the workshop will be posted on our YouTube channel.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram @durhamcollegeinternational for more information on upcoming events.

Recognize Remembrance Day at Durham College - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of the Durham College Student Association.

Students and employees at Durham College are invited to a special ceremony in honour of Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11.

Join us starting at 10:30 am for our Act of Remembrance ceremony, which will begin at 10:45 am in the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, Gyms 1 & 2 (Oshawa), and the Don Lovisa building Atrium (Whitby). To honour those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of our country, we will observe a moment of silence at 11 a.m.

Veterans and members of the Canadian Forces are welcome to wear appropriate uniforms and attire. If you can't join us on campus, you can still pay your respects by tuning in to the livestream.

Campus Store Inventory Closure - Thursday, November 13 and Friday, November 14, 2025 - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Please be advised that both Campus Store locations will be closed on Thursday, November 13, and Friday, November 14, 2025 for our mid-year inventory.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Regular operations will resume on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 8:00 a.m.

Our online store will remain open during this time; however, orders placed will not be processed or fulfilled until we reopen on Monday morning.

Thank you for your patience and continued support!

Hutchinson, Elliott named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Taniya Hutchinson of the women's basketball team and Jasean Elliott of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending November 2, 2025.

Hutchinson made her season debut for the Lords on the road against he Algonquin Wolves on Friday night. She was immediately a difference maker, scoring eight points along with three steals, two assists and a pair of offensive rebounds.

Elliott was a key piece in two big wins for the Lords last weekend in Ottawa over the Wolves and La Cité Coyotes. Over the two days collectively, Elliott led the team in points, assists, steals grabbed double-digit rebounds. He had 15 points, seven rebounds, six assists and a pair of steals in a 85-53 win against the Wolves, and 18 points, five rebounds, eight assists and four steals in a 82-65 win over the Coyotes.

Both basketball teams are back in action on Friday, November 7 in Barrie against the Georgian Grizzlies with the women playing at 6:00 PM, followed by the men at 8:00 PM.

Changes to Durham College Self-Service for employees - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of IT Services. Please direct inquiries to the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@dc-uoit.ca or call extension 3333.

Durham College (DC) is upgrading its existing Self-Service features to a modern, user-friendly version designed to make common tasks simpler and more accessible for employees. This upgrade will offer improved support for assistive technologies and is compatible with modern browsers and mobile devices. In addition to existing features, DC is launching new Employee Self-Service and Student Advising modules.

What's changing

Links currently accessed through ICE and MyDC will be consolidated into a single, integrated Self-Service portal, offering a clearer and more intuitive experience.

This upgrade introduces two new or enhanced areas:

Employee Self-Service – A personalized employee dashboard with features that allow employees to view and update their personal information (such as addresses and emergency contacts), view leave balances (full-time), and complete web time entry and approvals more efficiently.

Student Advising Profile – A new, streamlined interface supporting academic advisors and faculty in managing student-related information and advising activities.

What this means for you

Employees: Links currently used for web time entry and approvals will now be accessed in the Employee Self-Service portal, featuring a more user-friendly design.

Faculty and Student Advisors: You will be able to access the Faculty Self-Service module for administrative support and student advising tasks with improved usability.

Next steps

Further updates and training resources will be shared in the coming weeks to help employees navigate the new system. Thank you for your support.

CTL Compass - Express / November 2025 - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to ctl@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 sitting on a bench outside the Gordon Willey building.

2024_CTL_CompassFull_FC500.png

Fall Semester 🍁 November 2025

✅ ICE Highlights

CTL Launches Braiding Learning Framework and New Faculty Micro-credentials

Seeking Feedback on Coursedog

💡 In the CTL

College Teaching Certificate: Winter Registration Open

As of Fall 2025, the CTL welcomed part-time faculty into the College Teaching Certificate (CTC) program! The CTC program is a local credential designed to strengthen your instructional skills, expand your understanding of college-level curriculum development, and enhance your confidence in developing an authentic and inclusive classroom.

What is the CTC?

The CTC is a structured, evidence-based program comprising five courses that prepare and support faculty in designing curriculum, planning instructional strategies, and devising assessment practices which braid together the science of learning and Indigenous ways of teaching.

Available sessions for Winter 2026:

EDUC1101 / Course and Curriculum Development at the College Level

Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m. (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

EDUC1104 / Scholarship and Professional Practice for College Faculty

Fridays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

EDUC1100 / Teaching & Learning Principles for the College Classroom

Fridays, Time TBD (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

Visit the CTL website for comprehensive program details.

Interested in registering for the CTC this Winter?

Please speak with your AD/ED about your participation in this course and complete your registration.

Note: For PT faculty members, there is a nominal fee $90+tax per course.

[ Register as PT Faculty ] [ Register as FT Faculty ]

Reimagining Representation: AI, Bias, and the Educator’s Role

with Jennifer Bedford [MAD]

“AI is not just a mirror of society—it is a magnifier.” - Dr. Mike Brooks.

Generative AI is reshaping how we create and interpret visual content in education. The images produced can reflect biased datasets, limited perspectives, and cultural assumptions. In this hands-on session, we will explore how free tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot generate graphics and visuals based on simple prompts, and how those outputs can reinforce or challenge dominant narratives.

Through guided activities, participants will examine how bias emerges in AI-generated media and what role educators can play in guiding students to think critically about these technologies. You will leave with strategies for inclusive visual assignments, a deeper understanding of ethical design when creating Gen AI images, and a renewed perspective on your influence in shaping digital literacy.

Interested in signing up for this session?

Visit the CTL Events Calendar to register and learn more about other sessions available this month.

Bodyswaps 3.0 Updates / Limited Licenses Available for Fall & Winter

Bodyswaps 3.0 introduces powerful features that give faculty greater flexibility and control over the learning experience. You can now build tailored learner pathways by combining over 35 scaffolded modules, 30+ bite-sized activities, AI-powered roleplays, and customizable assessments. These tools support experiential learning and soft skills development in a dynamic, student-centered way. To explore available content, visit the Bodyswaps Library.

Spotlight on AI Roleplays

One of the most exciting features in Bodyswaps 3.0 is the addition of AI Roleplays — repeatable, customizable simulations that help students practice essential communication and interpersonal skills in a safe, realistic environment. Faculty can tailor the roleplays by adjusting goals, difficulty, roles, and mood, making them adaptable to a wide range of learning outcomes. Current roleplays include Active Listening in the Workplace, Building Rapport, Debating, Job Interview Roleplay, and the newest addition: Open Conversation. This roleplay is especially flexible and can be adapted into scenarios such as sales pitches, negotiation practice, and collaboration skill-building.

Learn more in the Open Conversations Customization Guide.

Interested in using Bodyswaps with your students? It’s not too late!

We have a limited number of licenses available for Fall and Winter semesters.

Contact Erin Banit, Multimedia Specialist, to learn more.

📌 ORSIE Update

The following messages are being shared on behalf of our friends in ORSIE.

Student Learning Experience Questionnaire (SLEQ; formerly SFQ)

Gathering Student Feedback

Collecting student feedback offers faculty insight into how their students are engaging with the content, understanding material and experiencing learning in their course. This formative feedback directly from students helps faculty gather information about the student experience, particularly what is working as well as identifying potential challenges. Gathering informal student feedback provides faculty the opportunity to reflect on their courses and adjust their instructional strategies and approaches in the spirit of continuous improvement.

Strategies for Success

Designate time in class for students to complete evaluations

Communicate that you value their constructive feedback and use their feedback to make adjustments in your teaching

Describe the importance of receiving specific and constructive feedback

Remind students that the SLEQs are completely anonymous and that results are only shared after final grades have been submitted

Use your Announcements tool in DC Connect to remind students that the SLEQ is available

We encourage you to use these graphics in your announcements!

Student sitting outside the Student Services building. Student in a computer lab with a faculty member.

Administration

14-week courses: Monday, November 3 – Friday, November 14, 2025

2nd 7-week courses: Monday, November 17 – Friday, November 21, 2025

Learn more about Riipen

Join us on Friday, November 21st, at 10 a.m. for a one-hour webinar designed specifically for DC educators who want to give students richer, real-world learning experiences through community projects.

Over the past year, we’ve seen educators across Canada use Riipen to seamlessly connect their classes with real organizations—bringing theory to life, building student confidence, and strengthening community impact.

We’ll walk through how it works, what’s new for DC faculty this term, and how our team can support you in making experiential learning easy and rewarding. Register here today!

If you can't join at that time but want to explore, reach out to Amanda to set up a quick 1:1 chat to explore how Riipen could support your winter courses. You can set up a time here.

📣 Stay tuned for the December/January issue of the CTL Compass next month!

Join us for Fall Town Halls - Announcements, November 12, 2025

A reminder that Durham College's Fall Town Halls at both the Whitby and Oshawa campuses, start next week. To help meet demand for the valuable information-sharing opportunities for employees, a new date has been added at the Oshawa campus.

Join us for key college updates, including enrolment, International, financial operations, and academics. Questions can be submitted in advance, and time will also be reserved for a live Q&A.

The November 11 session is now full, but space is still open on November 13 and 18. Register to attend.

Thursday, November 13

9:30 to 11 a.m.

Lecture Hall B101, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food

Whitby Campus

Tuesday, November 18

10 to 11:30 a.m.

CIR- 102, Centre for Research and Innovation

Oshawa Campus

Announcing the retirement of Maureen Calhoun, Environmental, Health and Safety Officer - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Kevin Maloney, Manager, Risk Management.

After more than 22 years of dedicated service, Maureen Calhoun, Environmental, Health and Safety Officer, will be retiring from Durham College (DC) effective December 19, 2025.

Maureen began her career at DC in 2003, bringing her expertise and passion to the School of Science and Engineering (now the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology), where she taught for 10 years and served as a Chemical Engineering Program Coordinator. She later transitioned into leadership as an Associate Dean, a role she held for five years before taking on her current position as the Environmental Health and Safety Officer in 2018.

Throughout her career, Maureen has demonstrated a deep commitment to both academic excellence and the well-being of our campus community. Her thoughtful leadership and steady presence have made a lasting impact across many areas, and we are grateful for the time, energy, and care she has dedicated to ensuring a safe environment for all.

While I have only had the opportunity to work with Maureen for a short period of time, I have come to admire and respect her contributions and will miss her expertise and support greatly. Please join me in thanking Maureen for her service and wishing her all the best in her retirement.

Laplante, McLean-Henry - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Sarah-Jane Laplante of the women's basketball team and Dylan McLean-Henry of the men's rugby team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending November 9, 2025.

Laplante, a Police Foundations student, was outstanding in Durham’s matchup against Georgian, leading the offensive charge with 18 points while knocking down four three-pointers. She made her presence felt on both ends of the floor, adding five rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and two steals in a complete all-around performance.

McLean-Henry, a Business Fundamentals student, delivered an inspiring effort in Durham’s semifinal victory over Conestoga, playing the full 80 minutes and scoring a crucial first-half try to extend the Lords’ lead. His relentless defensive work set the tone for the match as he led the team in tackles and helped shut down the Condors’ attack.

The women’s basketball team will host the Centennial Colts at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre on Tuesday, November 11 at 6:00 PM.

The men’s rugby team advance to the gold medal match at the 2025 OCAA Men’s Rugby Championship, where they will play host to the Humber Hawks on Sunday, November 16 at 1:00 PM.

Durham College to play for OCAA men's rugby gold medal at home on November 16 - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

🏉 Cheer on the Lords in the OCAA Men’s Rugby Championship!

The Durham Lords are heading to the gold medal match and we want our campus community to come out and support them!

📅 Sunday, November 16

🕐 1:00 PM kickoff

📍 Thompson Rugby Park (110 Raglan Road W, Oshawa)

🎟️ Free admission

The Lords will host the Humber Hawks in a highly anticipated championship rematch. The two sides last met on the same pitch earlier this season, where Durham came out on top 29-27. The Lords finished the regular season a perfect 6-0, while Humber went 5-1 - their only loss to Durham.

This finale brings together the league’s top two teams and promises to be an exciting showdown!

Durham’s men’s rugby program, established in 2018, has quickly become a provincial powerhouse, capturing three gold and two bronze medals in just seven seasons.

If you can’t make it in person, you can still catch all the action live on the Durham Lords Network on YouTube.

Let’s fill the sidelines and show our support for #LordsNation!

2025 Holiday Closure - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Dear colleagues,

With the holiday season quickly approaching, please note that Durham College will close at the end of the day on Tuesday, December 23, and will reopen for business on Monday, January 5, 2026.

During this period, all Durham College buildings will be closed, with the exception of the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (CRWC), including the FLEX (with holiday hours), which will reopen on Friday, January 2, 2026, to support weekend activities.

Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable holiday season in advance, as we look forward to the year ahead.

Privacy Impact Assessments: What are they and why do I need to complete one? - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

Effective July 1, 2025, amendments to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act now require institutions to complete a written Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) whenever personal information (PI) is collected or processed—including instances where third-party vendors deliver services on our behalf.

Join us for a one-hour virtual session on November 27, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. to learn more about PIAs, including:

What they are and why they matter

Key steps in completing a PIA

Insights into Durham College’s current practices and ongoing learnings

Privacy in Practice Session: Data Minimization - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.

You are invited to the first session of our Privacy in Practice series on Monday, December 8 at 11:00 a.m. This 30-minute talk will focus on the foundational privacy principle of data minimization. Data minimization is the practice of collecting, using and retaining only the personal information that is strictly necessary to fulfill a specific purpose.

During the session, we will explore:

The core principles and benefits of data minimization (and the risks over collecting)

How this principle aligns with privacy legislation

Practical applications within the context of our work at Durham College

Launch of new employee self-service platform - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

Human Resources & Equity is pleased to announce the launch of DC's new Employee Self-Service platform, part of the self-service upgrade previously communicated by IT Services.

Starting December 1, 2025, all active employees will be able to access the new platform using their Banner ID and network password.

The new employee self-service portal features a personalized dashboard where employees can view and manage personal information, including address, phone number and emergency contact details.

Depending on your role, you may also be able to:

View leave balances for yourself and your team

Submit or approve web time entries.

Further communication, including links and access instructions, will be shared in the coming weeks.

The Barrett Centre - Call For Speakers - Announcements, November 12, 2025

🌱 Call for Speakers 🌱

The Barrett Centre is seeking passionate experts for our 2026 Online Winter Lecture Series!

We’re looking for presenters who can inspire others and share insights on how municipalities and industry partners can work together to strengthen local urban agriculture initiatives.

Topics include:

• Viability & Value of Urban Agriculture

• Policy, Planning & Land Access

• Food Sovereignty & Dignified Food Access

• Niche Production: food distribution, seed production, mushroom cultivation, flower production & more!)

• Agri-tech, Innovation and On-Farm Efficiencies

• Community Placemaking, Culture & Wellness, etc.

Event Details:

• January–March 2026 (3 sessions)

• Hosted on MS Teams

• 20-minute presentation + group Q&A

• Honorarium: $400

Submit your 250–500 word proposal to Barrett.Centre@durhamcollege.ca by November 24th.

Help Support The Athletics/DCSA Food & Winter Clothing Drive This November! - Announcements, November 12, 2025

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

The Durham Lords basketball and volleyball teams are teaming up with the DCSA Support Hub Food Bank to collect non-perishable food items, hygiene products, and new or gently used winter clothing throughout November at all home games inside the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre.

The Support Hub Food Bank provides essential assistance to full-time Durham College students facing food insecurity, while donated clothing items will help keep community members warm this winter.

Collection Dates:

Tuesday, Nov. 11 @ 6/8 PM – Basketball vs. Centennial

Friday, Nov. 14 @ 6/8 PM – Volleyball vs. Algonquin

Saturday, Nov. 15 @ 1/3 PM – Volleyball vs. La Cité

Friday, Nov. 21 @ 6/8 PM – Basketball vs. St. Lawrence

Tuesday, Nov. 25 @ 6/8 PM – Basketball vs. Loyalist

Saturday, Nov. 29 @ 1/3 PM – Volleyball vs. St. Lawrence

All donations can be dropped off at the main entrance of the gym before or during games.

Admission is free for staff - so come cheer on our student-athletes, bring a donation, and help make a difference this season!

Confirm your legislated training compliance: Did you complete all mandatory trainings upon hire? - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources.

As part of our shared commitment to a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace, we want to remind everyone of the importance of completing the legislated training required for all employees in Ontario.

These trainings are not just best practices—they are mandated by provincial legislation and help ensure that 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).

All employees are expected to complete the following training upon hire:

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

We kindly ask that you take a moment to review your training certificates in Brightspace. For information on locating certificates and registering for modules, 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.

Thank you for helping us maintain a workplace that is safe, inclusive, and compliant with Ontario's legislative requirements. Questions can be directed to professionaldevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.

Durham College's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2025-2029 - Announcements, November 12, 2025

This message is shared on behalf of the Accessibility Coordinating Committee Co-Chairs, Angela Harrison and Tanya Wakelin.

We're proud to share that Durham College (DC) has completed its 2025–2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, outlining the next phase of our ongoing commitment to inclusion and barrier-free access. This plan builds on our long-term direction as an organization, one that values people, innovation, and community and sets clear actions to enhance accessibility across our campuses, services, and digital spaces. By embedding accessibility into all areas of our work, we are strengthening our capacity to ensure equitable access and opportunity for everyone at DC.

To ensure transparency and accountability, annual status reports outlining our progress and accomplishments will be published online each September.

Join DC at the Oshawa Santa Claus Parade of Lights - Announcements, November 06, 2025

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

Durham College is once again spreading holiday cheer at the annual Oshawa Santa Claus Parade of Lights!

The Durham Lords team bus will roll through the parade route, alongside student-athletes and members of the DC community proudly representing our green and gold spirit.

Faculty, staff and alumni are invited to join the celebration and help showcase the pride, energy, and togetherness that make Durham College such a special part of the community.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025

Start Time: 6:30 PM

Route: King Street Eastbound from Gibbons Street to Division Street. Float and parade entry load-in will take place between Stevenson Road and Gibbons Street.

Please register to walk with us! Visit durhamlords.com/parade to sign-up and Oshawa Holiday Experience to learn more. An email will be sent to participants the week of with more details.

Campus Health and Wellness Centre - Announcements, November 06, 2025

The Campus Health and Wellness Centre is excited to announce new hours and service updates to better support our students!

New Hours of Operation:

7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

To make it easier for students and staff to access the care they need, we’re now promoting multiple online booking options for Medical, Entry Immunization Forms, and Mental Health services for added convenience. Visit our online booking page for full details and to reserve your spot.

We’ve also expanded our hours to include early morning availability (7:00–8:00 a.m.) to better accommodate student schedules. Please note that limited services are available during these extended hours by appointment only.

Walk-ins are always welcome and will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to provider availability.

Get to know DC: Meet the Test Centre Team - Announcements, November 06, 2025

At the Durham College Test Centre, students can write their exams in a comfortable environment where their individual accessibility needs are met.

At the Oshawa Campus you’ll find them in Room B291 of the Gordon Willey Building, and in Whitby they’re located in the Don Lovisa Building, Office 181.

What does your team do?

What is a recent highlight for your team and why?

What are questions your team commonly receives and the answers?

Are you open evenings and weekends?

Yes, if students have evening tests we operate until 10 p.m. and on occasional weekends for the FLEX nursing and PSW programs.

Students and faculty often have questions about booking, processes etc.

We encourage anyone with questions to pop in to our office as we are more than happy to help.

What DC policies does your team oversee?

We are currently developing a missed assessment policy to guide students and faculty. We also have our own departmental policies related to testing which can be found on the website.

Voices of Impact - Raising Resilient Families: Sharing Project Outcomes - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Colleen McKay, Manager Grants and Special Projects. Social Impact Hub.

Discover how this Social Impact Hub applied research project uses co-production to reimagine supports for parents with cognitive challenges.

Join the Social Impact Hub at Durham College for an engaging presentation on Raising Resilient Families: Empowering Parents with Cognitive Challenges, a research project supported by the College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF) .

Project Summary:

The four-year research project examined the unique barriers and challenges faced by parents with cognitive challenges (such as intellectual and/or developmental disabilities or brain injuries) to co-create a proactive, evidence-based support model that addresses service gaps and strengthens families. Utilising co-production and community-based participatory research methodologies, the project draws on the lived experiences of these parents to ensure their voices guide every step.

This week in International Education: New support service for international students - Announcements, November 06, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Janine Knight-Grofe, Director, International Education. If you have questions, please email Dandan Shi 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 kicking off the ISA Hour this week. Every other Wednesday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, an International Student Advisor (ISA) will be at The PIT to answer questions, listen, and support our international students. We welcome all our students to drop by and chat with us. More information can be found on our Instagram.

Are you aware of the Global Learner Recognition Program offered by the IE office? It's for all DC students who are ready to go beyond the classroom and gain real-world skills in cultural awareness, global connections, global learning, and sustainability. We encourage students to embrace their status as citizens of the world. Students can 'Get Global' with this program and develop skills and awareness which will help them thrive in our rapidly changing and increasingly connected world. More information can be found on our website.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram @durhamcollegeinternational for more information on upcoming events.

Join an upcoming health and wellness seminar on managing stress and building resilience - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources and Equity.

Join Kerrin St. Omer, CHLC, MBP in two upcoming wellness seminars for DC employees.

Building Resilience in Uncertain Times - Friday, November 14th from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

In the face of events which cause widespread uncertainty, create rapid change, or impact personal and family safety, it is natural to feel that you have little control over what happens. This seminar focuses on how to recognize the reality of your situation and apply quick strategies to immediately boost resilience. It explores how to build resilience through your thoughts and daily habits.

Stress Relaxation Techniques - Friday, November 28th from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Our minds and bodies need rest and recovery breaks to allow us to relax and reduce the effects of stress. This seminar will show you how to make time to reduce stress, using both proactive and reactive relaxation techniques. Learn how to apply evidence-based relaxation techniques that can be used in real-time and create a personalized relaxation routine.

Click here for additional session information and registration details.

DC Talks: Alumni Series “From Education to Entrepreneur” - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer, Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. Please direct inquiries to Heather Bulman, Communications and Development Officer.

Join us on November 19 for the next DC Talks: Alumni Series event, featuring a panel of five Durham College (DC) graduates who have found success starting their own business. Moderators Ariel Sully and Cristina Italia will lead a conversation about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. These innovators share one thing in common — they leveraged their DC education to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures.

Panellists: Brittany Charlton (Law Clerk Advanced), Paul Fritzsch (Horticulture – Food and Farming), Zenon Issel (Mechanical Engineering Technology), Nicole Morais (Hospitality Management – Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism), Shanondoah Nicholson (Event Management)

During this event, the DC Alumni Association (DCAA) will also be launching the Alumni Entrepreneur Toolkit, a collection of resources for graduates to tap into to support their business growth, including hiring opportunities, exclusive partnerships, and savings on small business insurance.

Event details:

Wednesday, November 19, 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: Alumni Series is hosted by the DCAA in collaboration with Lon Appleby's Global Leader class at DC and aims to inspire current students, facilitate networking among alumni, and highlight success stories. This event is also a part of 'Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week', Durham Region's celebration of entrepreneurship held each November during Global Entrepreneurship Week.

This week in International Education: Supporting relief efforts in Jamaica following hurricane Melissa - Announcements, November 06, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Janine Knight-Grofe, Director, International Education. If you have questions, please email Dandan Shi at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]

Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread devastation across Jamaica, displacing families and damaging vital infrastructure. At DC, we recognize that this crisis deeply affects members of our community, including Jamaican students, faculty and staff and those with ties to Jamaica.

The International Education Office is encouraging support for relief and recovery efforts. If you'd like to help, donations can be made through the official Jamaican government portal at https://supportjamaica.gov.jm/ or through the Jamaican Canadian Association, which is also coordinating aid initiatives.

Whether through financial contributions, spreading awareness, or organizing local support, every effort makes a difference.

Adobe product licenses renewed for all employees - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Richard Jules, Director, IT Services.

We're pleased to share that IT Services has successfully renewed our Adobe product licenses for all employees.

This week, we're rolling out Adobe Express to all employees. Adobe Express is a fast and user-friendly creative tool designed for simple graphic, video, and document work!

As part of this renewal, and in consultation with supervisors across departments, we have updated the way Adobe product licenses are allocated.

This allows us to match each license to the specific needs of your role and our campus resources.

What's Changing:

Your current Adobe license may change from what you previously used to match the requirements of your function.

Getting Started:

If you have trouble accessing Adobe products after the renewal, the most common fix is to log out and then log back in to the platform.

(See attachment for instructions.)

To access your DC Adobe products at any time, you can log into Adobe.com and ensure that you log in with your DC email address.

Just look for the blue circle in the top right-hand corner when you're in the platform to verify your username (your DC email address)

Digital Signing Instructions:

For employees using Adobe Reader and needing to digitally sign documents:

Use the “Certificates" tool > “Digitally Sign"

If you don't have a Digital ID, follow the menu prompts to create one

After signing, remember to save and share your completed document

Summary of Adobe Tool Allocations:

Product Who Will Have Access Main Uses

Adobe Acrobat Reader Most employees View, print, annotate, and sign PDFs

Adobe Acrobat Pro Employees needing advanced PDF functions Create, edit, convert, and manage PDFs

Adobe Creative Cloud Employees creating advanced digital content Graphics, video, web design, and more

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as these improvements roll out.

Our goal is to offer campus-wide access to the tools you need, while positioning us for even greater collaboration and creativity ahead. Thank you for your attention, adaptability, and continued support.

Discover the Durham College Spa - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Durham College Spa.

Book your appointment today for affordable massage, esthetic, and makeup services at the Durham College Spa, a full-service teaching and learning spa.

Skilled student practitioners – guided by expert faculty and Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) – provide personalized treatments in a clean, welcoming environment at our Oshawa campus. Every visit supports students' learning and training while delivering high-quality care.

The Spa offers massages, facials, hand and foot care, waxing, makeup application and more.

During your appointment, students are providing a comprehensive service as part of their intensive training, and your session may take a little longer. In exchange for your time, you can expect an in-depth consultation, attention to detail, professionalism, customized treatment plans and home care recommendations.

Book your appointment now to feel good, look great, and support the next generation of beauty and wellness professionals.

The Durham College Spa is located at:

Durham College Oshawa campus

2nd floor, Centre for Collaborative Education

See it on our interactive map

Learn about Treaties Recognition Week at Durham College - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of the First Peoples Indigenous Centre.

In Ontario, the first week of November is Treaties Recognition Week. This week invites all of us to learn about the history and ongoing importance of treaties, and to reflect on what it means to live in respectful and reciprocal relationship with one another.

Durham College (DC) acknowledges that our campuses are located on lands covered by the Williams Treaties, signed in 1923 between the governments of Ontario and Canada and seven First Nations: Alderville First Nation, Beausoleil First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, and Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. These Nations are the Indigenous rights holders and ongoing caretakers of the lands and waterways where our learning and work take place. Recognizing the Williams Treaties means understanding that these agreements were meant to establish ongoing relationships based on mutual respect, benefit, and shared responsibility.

Throughout the month of November, the First Peoples Indigenous Centre will host Reconciliation Reels, a film series featuring documentaries about treaties and the relationships they represent. These screenings and learning opportunities foster understanding, relationship-building, and cultural awareness across our campus community. We encourage all members of the DC community to participate, learn, and reflect on the significance of these relationships.

All screenings will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 141.

Wednesday, November 5: Trick or Treaty? (National Film Board - NFB)

Wednesday, November 12: Dancing Around the Table 1 (NFB)

Wednesday, November 19: Dancing Around the Table 2 (NFB)

If you would like to explore these films on your own or share them with your classes, you can stream them directly through the attached links.

A few resources to support your ongoing learning journey include:

You Are on Indian Land (NFB)

Treaty Road (APTN lumi)

The Learning Portal Maamwi Hub: Treaties

Durham College Campus Library: Treaties Recognition

Treaties Recognition Week serves as a meaningful opportunity for students, employees, and community members to reflect on what treaty relationships mean in this region. It is a time to learn about the historical impacts of colonization, settlement, and land dispossession on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, while recognizing our shared responsibility to uphold and honour treaty commitments today. Within classrooms, workspaces, and community gatherings, this week encourages thoughtful discussion about how treaty responsibilities connect to our studies, our work, and our daily lives, whether in areas such as land use, governance, education, law, health, or technology.

DC remains committed to building respectful relationships with Indigenous students, colleagues, and communities. By learning about and honouring Treaties, we continue to work toward reconciliation, not only in words, but through daily action, understanding, and shared responsibility.

Retirement Notice - Maureen Callhoun, Environmental, Health & Safety Officer - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Kevin Maloney, Manager Risk Management.

After more than 22 years of dedicated service, Maureen Callhoun, Environmental, Health and Safety Officer, will be retiring from Durham College effective December 19th, 2025.

Maureen began her career at DC in 2003, bringing her expertise and passion to the School of Science and Engineering, where she taught for 10 years and served as a Chemical Engineering Program Coordinator. She later transitioned into leadership as an Associate Dean, a role she held for five years before taking on her current position as the Environmental Health and Safety officer in 2018.

Office Safety Guideline: Safe Storage and Appliance Use - Announcements, November 06, 2025

During Joint Health and Safety Committee workplace inspections, we often note concerns regarding storage of heavy materials on overhead shelves. This is not ideal and can result in injury when trying to handle such items. In many cases, there are also small appliances brought into workspaces and we need to take care that these are safely managed.

The Office Safety Guideline-Safe Storage and Appliance Use.pdf now available on ICE will provide further information regarding this.

Reminder – Fall Open House is this Saturday, November 8 - Announcements, November 06, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Lauren Mastroianni, Student Recruitment Marketing Specialist, Communications and Marketing.

Fall Open House is just days away and we're excited to open our doors and showcase the best of Durham College (DC)!

Prospective students and their families can explore all that DC has to offer at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses on Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you know someone considering their post-secondary options, invite them to register for Open House and explore our 145+ career-driven programs and support services.

Are you signed up to participate? Check out our Open House participant details for all the information you'll need. Remember to wear your DC-branded gear and show your DC pride. See you on Saturday, November 8!

Women's volleyball team raise $925 for Hearth Place - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

The Durham College varsity women's volleyball team were collecting donations last week in support of the Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre, tying their home opener on Friday wth Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In what has become an annual tradition for the women's volleyball team, they raised a total of $924.75.

Hearth Place empowers a community of compassionate support, knowledge and hope for anyone impacted by cancer.

Their donation will help provide free programs and services for individuals and families in the Durham Region battling cancer.

This week in International Education: - Announcements, October 30, 2025

[This message is sent on behalf of Janine Knight-Grofe, Director, International Education. If you have questions, please email Dandan Shi 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:

1. This month’s immigration workshop will focus on the co-op work permit application process. International students whose programs include a mandatory work component—and who did not receive a co-op work permit upon arrival in Canada—are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. We’ll be hosting a hybrid workshop to guide students through the application process on Thursday, October 23 at 10 AM. Students can register to attend online or in person. Please help us spread the word to international students who may benefit from this session.

2. The IE office is once again offering Module 2 of the Intercultural Awareness program over Reading Week, which will be facilitated by Brad Niblett and Danielle Harder. Through this action-packed morning, you will gain insight into the challenges of cross-cultural communication and collaboration, while having a lot of fun along the way.

Module 2: BaFa BaFa – A Cross-Cultural Simulation

Friday | Oct. 24 | 9 a.m. – noon | Global Classroom, Oshawa Campus

Prepare to have fun while you experience deep learning! In BaFa BaFa, participants understand the powerful effects of culture on every person’s life. This immersive simulation challenges participants to adapt to unfamiliar cultural norms, promoting empathy and adaptability. It focuses on helping participants prepare for living and working in another culture or learning to work with people from different departments, disciplines, genders, races, and ages. Please use this link to register - https://forms.office.com/r/AvYtsAtnaf.

Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram @durhamcollegeinternational for more information on upcoming events.

Free Group Fitness Classes Are Back On October 27 - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

Looking for a fun way to move your body and get active? Sign up to participate in free Group Fitness Classes at the FLEX. The fall session runs from Monday, October 27 to Friday, December 12.

We have a large variety of classes ranging from power yoga, Pilates, spin, boot camps and more, with new classes Urban Grooves and Qigong joining the schedule this fall.

Registration opens three days in advance of the class, so make sure to save your spot! Visit the Campus Rec website or download the Durham College-Ontario Tech Campus Rec app to reserve your spot. You can begin signing up on Friday, October 24.

For instructions on how to register, please click HERE to learn more. Still unable to reserve your spot? Email campusrecfacilities@dc-ot.ca.

Weekly Group Fitness Schedule

Monday

12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Urban Grooves w/ Liv

12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m. (Aerobics Room 2) - Rock N Roll w/ Ed

1:10 p.m. - 2 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Power Yoga w/ Brooke

Tuesday

10:10 a.m. - 11 a.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Qigong w/ Alex

11:10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Mat Pilates w/ Kathy

11:10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Aerobics Room 2) - Vinyasa Yoga w/ Genevieve

Wednesday

11:10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Power Pilates w/ Brooke

12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m. (Aerobics Room 2) - Spin & Core w/ Norah

4:40 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Mat Pilates w/ Kathy

Thursday

11:10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Mat Pilates w/ Kathy

12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Circuit Training w/ Norah

4:10 p.m. - 5 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Belly Dance w/ Zahra

Friday

11:10 a.m. - 12 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Yoga Flow w/ Brooke

12:10 p.m. - 1 p.m. (Aerobics Room 1) - Progressive Pilates w/ Norah

Reminder: Sign up now to help make Fall Open House a success 💚💛 - Announcements, October 30, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Lauren Mastroianni, Student Recruitment Marketing Specialist, Communications and Marketing.

Fall Open House is on Saturday, November 8, and we need your help showcasing our programs, people, and campuses to prospective students and their families.

Your participation helps us create an inviting and informative experience that showcases what makes Durham College (DC) exceptional. Every conversation—whether you're representing your Faculty, highlighting your department, or supporting event logistics—contributes to the meaningful first impressions that inspire future students to choose DC.

Join us at the event to help welcome guests, conduct campus tours or provide general event support. To be part of this important day, please sign up online by Monday, October 27.

Wear your DC green, share your pride, and help future students see why DC is the Best. Decision. Ever!

Electronic Waste, Battery and Hazardous Waste Disposal - Announcements, October 30, 2025

The updated Hazardous Waste Manual is now available on ICE: Hazardous Waste Manual

This document provides information regarding the safe handling, storage and disposal of hazardouse waste including the college protocol for battery disoposal.

We have also updated an Electronic Waste Disposal document that is also available on ICE: 7 E-waste Disposal Procedure.pdf

Please direct any questions regarding this information to healthandsafety@durhamcollege.ca

Ontario Labour Relations Board notice regarding ratification vote - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

Please see the notice from the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) regarding the upcoming ratification vote for employees covered by the Support Staff Collective Agreement.

Women's rugby team wins fourth straight OCAA gold medal - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

Durham College stormed through the 2025 OCAA Women's Rugby Sevens Championship to claim their fourth consecutive provincial title, capping off a perfect season and extending the most dominant run in OCAA women's rugby history.

The Lords made the trip to Cambridge this weekend for the championship, defeating Fleming 22-0 in the quarter-final, Seneca 52-0 in the semifinal and Humber 34-0 in the gold medal match.

In 17 games this season, Durham outscored opponents 702–19, posting 14 shutouts and proving unmatched in both attack and defence.

The title marks the program's fourth gold and sixth overall medal, with the Lords becoming the first team in OCAA women's rugby sevens history to win four in a row while no other school has ever gone back-to-back.

This is the second time in DC history that a team has won four championships in a row, with the women's softball team winning gold every year from 2015 through 2018.

Championship All-Star honours went to Sarah Clayton and Daniella Kimevski, while Amber Edgerton earned the Championship MVP award.

Amber Edgerton, Emmanuel Milfort and Brooke Young named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

Amber Edgerton of the women's rugby team, Emmanuel Milfort of the men's rugby team and Brooke Young of the women's volleyball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending October 26, 2025.

Edgerton, a 9-1-1 Emergency and Call Centre Communications student, earned Championship MVP honours at the 2025 OCAA Women's Rugby Sevens Championship where the Durham Lords claimed their fourth consecutive gold medal. Through three matches on Saturday, Edgerton tallied six tries as the Lords defeated the Fleming Phoenix 22-0, Seneca Sting 52-0 and Humber Hawks 34-0.

Milfort, a Electrical Engineering Technician student, delivered a dominant defensive performance on Friday as the Lords came from behind to defeat the Conestoga Condors 19-12 and preserve their undefeated season. From start to finish, he was a defensive powerhouse, shutting down the attack and making statement tackles that turned the tide of the match. He inspired a massive turnaround in the match with his physical presence and anchored the defensive effort.

Young, a Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing student, became Durham College's all-time career assist leader in women's volleyball this weekend. On a road trip to Barrie and North Bay this week, Young recorded 57 assists bring her career total to 1,300, surpassing the previous record of 1,295. She also added 11 digs, three service aces and a pair of kills to her stat line over the weekend.

Undefeated men's rugby team to host semifinal on November 8 - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

The Durham College varsity men's rugby team completed their regular season campaign last weekend, finishing with a 6-0 record as the OCAA's only undefeated team.

Finishing first place in the province awards the Lords with the opportunity to advance straight through the opening round to the semifinal. The Lords will host the match at Thompson Rugby Park (110 Raglan Road W, Oshawa) on Saturday, November 8th at 1:00 PM against an opponent yet to be determined.

Entry is free of charge and we need the backing of Lords Nation to help cheer the team on as they look to clinch a spot in the gold medal match, which if they qualify - Durham would also host the following weekend.

Durham has fielded one of the most dominant teams in recent years, winning three gold medals and two bronze medals since the college added men's rugby to its varsity lineup in 2018.

Invitation to DC's Fall Town Halls - Announcements, October 30, 2025

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

I hope you are finding small moments to recharge amid what has been a demanding and uncertain semester. I know many teams are feeling stretched, and I want to acknowledge the effort, adaptability, and professionalism you continue to demonstrate through it all. Your commitment to our students and to one another does not go unnoticed. Thank you for continuing to show up with care and resilience, even during challenging times.

This has been an extended period of considerable change and pressure across the college system, and now more than ever, it's essential that we take time to listen, support one another, and maintain open dialogue.

As I shared in my August communication, we'll continue creating opportunities for conversation and connection throughout the academic year. To support this, two Fall Town Hall sessions have been scheduled in November, providing a two-way dialogue forum to hear updates, ask questions, and share perspectives as we move forward together.

As in past Town Halls, the Executive Leadership Team and I will provide updates on key college activities, including enrolment, recent International Student Program policy changes, and an overview of our finances and funding model. We understand uncertainty and concern continue about how these developments affect our work, and we aim to provide clarity and transparency wherever possible.

Please submit your questions in advance so that they can be addressed during each session. Time will also be reserved for a live Q&A, allowing you to engage directly during the Town Halls.

Please register to attend by Thursday, November 7.

Fall Town Hall Details

Oshawa Campus

Tuesday, November 11

1 to 2:30 p.m.

CIR-102, Centre for Research and Innovation

Whitby Campus

Thursday, November 13

9:30 to 11 a.m.

Lecture Hall B101, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food

CTL Launches: Braiding Learning Framework and New Faculty Micro-credentials - Announcements, October 30, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Centre for Teaching and Learning. If you have questions, please email ctl@durhamcollege.ca.

The Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) is proud to announce the launch of the Braining Learning Framework and two new micro-credentials as part of the Braiding Knowledge: An Educator Growth Program.

Braiding Learning Framework

Braiding Learning is a framework created to support Durham College (DC)'s participation in Reconciliation and the integration of both traditional Indigenous (Turtle Island) and non-Indigenous evidence-based pedagogical practices in teaching. Its intent is to support DC by braiding together inclusive practices in all areas of education. Designed to be versatile and adaptable for various uses to create meaningful and diverse learning environments which are trauma-informed, inclusive and wholistic, it keeps student wellness at the centre of learning.

It envisions a collaborative learning journey where diverse pedagogical perspectives are equally valued, with neither positioned above the other, fostering an inclusive and balanced approach to education.

The framework upholds five of the seven principles of the Indigenous Education Protocol for Colleges and Institutes and works towards target 4 in the UN sustainability goals both of which DC is a proud signatory. It further connects the new DC Strategic Vision specifically by meeting objectives in Goal 1: Future-focused and Goal 3: People-centered.

For complete details, please see the new Braiding Learning microsite. A copy of the Framework is available for download.

NEW! Braiding Knowledge: An Educator Growth Program

Supporting the new Braiding Learning Framework, two new DC recognized micro-credentials have been developed for DC faculty as part of the new Braiding Knowledge: An Educator Growth Program,. These micro-credentials, Mindful Curriculum and Innovating Engagement, offer formal recognition of completion issued through MyCreds with an official transcript. Weaving together different ways of knowing, the program supports the creation of safe and collaborative educational spaces that honour both cultural and academic excellence within lifelong learning.

Learn more and register to start your micro-credential journey!

For questions, acknowledgements or more information, contact Amy Jenne and Jenn Fournier, Teaching and Learning Consultants at the CTL.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Part-Time Support Staff Bargaining, October 14, 2025 - Announcements, October 23, 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, are negotiating 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, October 14, 2025

The CEC's updates are also available on the CEC website.

Tentative Agreement Reached for Full-Time Support Staff - Announcements, October 23, 2025

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

I am pleased to share that a tentative agreement for full-time support staff has been reached between the College Employer Council (CEC) and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) through mediation.

With this agreement, the strike has ended, and full-time support staff employees will return to work on Thursday, October 16.

Please read the message from the CEC.

Thank you for your patience throughout this period. As we return to regular operations, we encourage everyone to be respectful and supportive of one another, and to move forward together as a community after the work stoppage.

We look forward to resuming all regular operations on Thursday.

Connecting Through Food Campaign - Spin to Give Back Event - Announcements, October 23, 2025

This message is being sent to you on behalf of Ancillary Services.

Chartwells Canada is back this year with their Connecting Through Food campaign, and we’re looking forward to making a meaningful impact for students through nutrition education, raising awareness about food insecurity, and supporting on-campus food security initiatives.

Following a successful launch in 2022 and continued efforts over the past two years, we’re excited to build on this momentum to create an even greater impact on campus food insecurity.

Our campaign will be active from October 14th to 17th (World Food Day). During this time, selected goods will be available for purchase, with proceeds going toward a donation to the DC Food Access Bursary Campaign—a new partnership aimed at supporting students in the most direct way possible.

As part of the campaign, we will also host a pop-up engagement activity:"Spin to Give Back" event, taking place on Thursday, October 16th, inside the Marketplace Cafeteria from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

We are excited to be participating in this campaign again this year, and are eager to make an impact on campus. We invite you to participate in the spin to give back and hope that you can help us increase awareness for this day and engage the campus community in making a difference.

Payday Lottery Winner: Congratulations, Aimee! - Announcements, October 23, 2025

This message is shared on behalf of Abbi Longo, Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.

🎉 Congratulations, Aimee Karagiorgakis! 🎉

We’re excited to announce that Aimee Karagiorgakis is this month’s Payday Lottery Winner! Aimee has won a total of $640, with the other half of funds collected this month directed to the Student Experience Fund.

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!

The International Education Office is offering BaFa BaFa - A Cross-Cultural Simulation over Reading Week - Registration Now Open - Announcements, October 23, 2025

This message is shared on behalf of Human Resources

The International Education Office is offering the popular Intercultural Awareness Module: BaFa BaFa – A Cross-Cultural Simulation over reading week

Through this action-packed morning, you will gain insights into the challenges of cross-cultural communication and collaboration.

Session Details:

Friday, October 24th from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

In-person at the Oshawa Campus, in the Global Classroom

Facilitators: Danielle Harder and Brad Niblett

Click here to register

This is the second of the five-module series. For questions, please contact Danielle Harder.

Welcome back to our full-time support staff colleagues - Announcements, October 23, 2025

Dear colleagues,

I'm very pleased to welcome our support staff employees back to campus today. Your presence and significant contributions have been greatly missed, and we are glad to have our full Durham College (DC) team together again.

We know our people are an essential factor in DC's success. This is reflected in the skill, genuine commitment, and care each of you brings to your work and to one another. The past several weeks have been challenging for everyone – both personally and professionally – and I recognize the many emotions that come with these challenges. As we move forward, this is a meaningful moment to reflect on what makes DC such a special place. Our culture, grounded in respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to our students, is something we all help to create and protect. Each of us plays a crucial role in making our campus a positive place to learn, work and grow.

I also want to express my sincere appreciation to all employees who supported our students and maintained operations during this time. Still, DC is at its best when we are all together, and it's wonderful to have our whole team back.

Thank you for the professionalism and care you continue to show in supporting our students and each other. I'm optimistic about all we will achieve as we move forward, united by our purpose, values, and the success of our students.

Welcome back; we've missed you!

Sincerely,

Elaine

Last Chance! Register for Fall Academic PD Day 🍁 Thursday, October 23 - Announcements, October 23, 2025

Join us for Fall Academic PD Day 🍁

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025 • Time: 8:30 a.m.

Location: Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE)

Website: durhamcollege.ca/ctl/pd/academic-pd/fall-2025

Keynote Spotlight / Ela Smith & Cassie Hill

The CTL is excited to welcome Ela Smith & Cassie Hill to present the keynote session during Fall Academic PD Day!

[ LEARN MORE FROM ELA ] [ LEARN MORE FROM CASSIE ]

Indigegogy and Curriculum – What does it mean and how do we incorporate it

This workshop will discuss Indigegogy, Miskasowin, and curriculum planning utilizing Indigenous Knowledge Learning Outcomes. It is an active workshop that will include individual reflection on intent versus impact.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Define Indigegogy.

Identify Indigenous Knowledge Learning outcomes and how they can enhance course learning.

Create your own Miskasowin as a depiction of your lived experience.

Breakout Sessions / Hosted by DC Faculty Members

Learn more about the Fall Academic PD Day schedule and available breakout sessions throughout the day.

[ VIEW SCHEDULE ]

Save Your Spot

Hurry! Registration closes Tuesday, October 21, 2025!

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If the above link doesn’t work, please visit: https://outlook.office.com/book/CTLProfessionalDevelopmentSessions@dconline.onmicrosoft.com/s/TjJr2TTt9EWUbMAz0Y8qkQ2?ismsaljsauthenabled

We look forward to learning together!

Update from the College Employer Council related to Part-Time Support Staff Bargaining, October 14, 2025 - Announcements, October 23, 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, are negotiating 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, October 17, 2025

The CEC's updates are also available on the CEC website.

Food Services - Reading Week Hours of Operation - October 20-24, 2025 - Announcements, October 23, 2025

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, October 20 to Friday, October 24:

Oshawa Campus

Tim Horton's B Wing

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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

Tim Horton's SSB

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

Thursday - Friday: CLOSED

South Village Dining Hall*

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

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

Whitby Campus

Tim Horton's Whitby

Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

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

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

Camryn Wood, Devonne Henry named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, October 23, 2025

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

Camryn Wood of the women's rugby team and Devonne Henry of the men's rugby team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending October 19, 2025.

Wood, a Mechanical Techniques - Plumbing student, had an unforgettable weekend with four tries scored and 14 converts kicked for 48 points over three matches on Saturday. Wood finished the season with 43 converts, breaking the Durham College women's rugby sevens record for most successfully kicked in a season.

Henry, a General Arts & Science student, contributed 19 points for the Lords in their 29-27 win over Humber at Thompson Rugby Park on Saturday. Henry scored three tries and kicked two converts in a tight race for the scoring title.

Take Our Kids to Work Day - Wednesday November 5 - Announcements, October 23, 2025

Sent on behalf of Human Resources and Equity.

Durham College is pleased to announce our participation in The Learning Partnership's national Take Our Kids to Work Day, scheduled for Wednesday, November 5. The theme for 2025 is “Lift up the future".

This initiative provides an experiential learning opportunity for Grade 9 students across Canada, to gain insight into the world of work, explore various career paths, and acquire an understanding of the skills necessary for success in today's workplaces.

In alignment with this program, we invite employees to participate by hosting a Grade 9 student at work on November 5. Please discuss this with your supervisor to ensure there are no concerns. Employees are encouraged to plan the day accordingly and arrange opportunities for the student to shadow them, in line with the intended purpose of the program. This provides the student with a perspective of the workplace, fosters discussions about career choices, and underscores the significance of education and post-secondary studies.

Members of DC's Student Recruitment team will be offering campus tours for Grade 9 students as per the following schedule:

Whitby Campus from 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Please meet Lauren at the Whitby main campus entrance lobby of the Don Lovisa Building, located near the Campus Bookstore (View campus map).

Oshawa Campus from 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Please meet Aman at the student space, formerly known as 'The Pit', located outside of the Professional and Part-time Learning (PPL) office in the Gordon Willey building (View campus map).

Tours will begin promptly, so please be sure to have the student arrive a few minutes early. Students will return to the meeting point for the DC host to meet their student.

By participating in Take Our Kids to Work Day, you can make a meaningful impact on these young people, helping them:

Develop an appreciation for the importance of education.

Gain exposure to the skills required in today's workplace.

Develop an appreciation for their parents' role in making a living and supporting their families.

Initiate discussions with adults about the work they do.

Gain a better understanding of the complexity of career choices and the benefits of early exploration.

Explore career options in practical ways.

Employees hosting a Grade 9 student on campus are required to speak with their manager in advance to ensure there are no concerns and to seek their approval to have the student shadow them during meetings or other college-related activities.

The attached waiver form must be completed and submitted to humanresources@durhamcollege.ca by 4 p.m. on Monday, November 3.

Know someone who should advertise with DC? - Announcements, October 23, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Corporate Training Services.

Durham College has introduced a new way for businesses and organizations to connect with our community through our Advertise with DC program.

As a valued member of our DC community, you may have connections through your work, personal relationships, community involvement, or other affiliations who would love the chance to reach our students, employees, and visitors. Please help us help spread the word!

To learn more, or to connect your contacts with the program, reach out to amber.moores@durhamcollege.ca.

More information can also be found: https://durhamcollege.ca/about/advertise-with-durham-college.

Raising Resilient Families: Sharing final report - Announcements, October 23, 2025

The Durham College Social Impact Hub is excited to share project outcomes:

The Raising Resilient Families project team, led by Durham College faculty members and SI Hub project leads Amanda Cappon and Kay Corbier, launches the final report resulting from a four-year community-engaged research project supported by the Social Impact Hub. Thank you to the community members, service providers, collaborators, and partners who provided their time and expertise to make the project possible. Vital support was also provided by the College and Community Social Innovation Fund through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

You can access the report on the Social Impact Hub website under “what's new" on the main page: https://durhamcollege.ca/about/office-of-research-services-innovation-and-entrepreneurship-orsie/social-impact-hub

Project summary:

All parents, including those with cognitive challenges (including acquired brain injury, intellectual and/or developmental disabilities), play a critical role in child development especially in the early years before peers become a prominent factor. As these individuals become parents, they may require individualized supports (learning how to diaper, feed, bathe, bedtime routines, etc.) to foster a safe and healthy environment for their child to avoid removal of the child from the family home. Unfortunately, skills-building supports are not always appropriate or available to this population and therefore the objective of this project was to develop a model of support that is proactive to address the social issues that impact these parents, including trauma, institutionalization, and violation of human rights based on best practices identified and input from these parents as well as key partners. Co-production and community-based participatory research methodologies were used to investigate challenges and barriers for families with the goal of forging early intervention strategies with community partners that honour the strengths of families, ultimately eliminating the need to remove a child from their family or cultural community.

Please contact socialimpacthub@durhamcollege.ca with any questions!

Special Pay Run - Full-Time Support Staff - Announcements, October 23, 2025

Following last week's announcement that OPSEU and the College Employer Council have reached a tentative agreement, all employees covered by the agreement who returned to active employment will be paid on Friday October 24th, through a special pay run which will include pay for Thursday, October 16th and Friday, October 17th.

The regular pay period following the payroll schedule will then start next week. Please note that, in accordance with the return to work agreement, pay rates in effect as of August 31, 2025, continue to apply.

Employees are encouraged to review their pay slips by accessing the ADP Workforce Now system. For assistance accessing the ADP system, please contact the payrolldepartment@durhamcollege.ca.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - October 8, 2025 - Announcements, October 15, 2025

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

As the Full-Time Support Staff labour action continues, here is the next communication update from the College Employer Council (CEC)

Message from the CEC, October 8, 2025

As a reminder, all communications related to bargaining are available on the ICE homepage under the header Bargaining Communications and Impacts. Please also visit the Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining Update webpage on DC's public website, which includes updates, frequently asked questions, picket line information and impacts to services and operations.

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - October 9, 2025 - Announcements, October 15, 2025

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

As the Full-Time Support Staff labour action continues, here is the next communication update from the College Employer Council (CEC)

Message from the CEC, October 9, 2025

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Save the date: Fall Open House – Saturday, November 8 - Announcements, October 15, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects.

Mark your calendars for Fall Open House at Durham College (DC).

This year's event is set for Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prospective students and their families are invited to join us at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses to learn about our 145+ career-driven programs, supportive student services, modern facilities and more.

Help us spread the word by sharing the Open House website with prospective students and encouraging them to register for the event. Attendees will be entered to win a $5,000 tuition credit and other great prizes.

Nobody knows DC better than our employees. There are lots of ways for you to get involved in making Open House a success, and information on how you can participate will be available soon. We hope to see you there!

Update from the College Employer Council related to Part-Time Support Staff Bargaining, October 9, 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, are negotiating 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, October 9, 2025

The CEC's updates are also available on the CEC website.

Campus Health Centre Closure - Announcements, October 15, 2025

NOTICE: The clinic will be CLOSED on October 14th and will resume services the following day. You are encouraged to book an appointment online.

Please see additional resources below.

Notice: Reduced Services at the Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC)

Due to the ongoing work stoppage, the CHWC is currently operating with limited services. Please review the following updates:

Suspended Services

All mental health services at both the Whitby and Oshawa campuses

The general CHWC email inbox will not be regularly monitored.

Phone lines are temporarily unavailable.

Operating Services

Online booking is live. Limited physician appointments are available to book Monday to Friday, starting September 17. Please click HERE to book online.

Walk-in appointments will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis, pending availability, Monday to Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., beginning September 17.-

Campus Pharmacy (Lovell Drugs) continues to operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4 :00 p.m.

Some nursing services will be available through a physician referral.

Resources

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Mental Health:

For Durham College students, if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please visit the Are You Okay webpage for resources and community supports.

For Ontario Tech Students, if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please visit the I am in distress | Student Life (ontariotechu.ca) webpage for resources and community supports.

Before reaching out, we encourage you to visit the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, where you may find answers to frequently asked questions.

We recognize that this situation may cause challenges and inconvenience. We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to support students to the best of our ability.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - October 10, 2025 - Announcements, October 15, 2025

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

As the Full-Time Support Staff labour action continues, here is the next communication update from the College Employer Council (CEC)

Message from the CEC, October 10, 2025

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Durham College Spa Offering Free Massages Until October 31! - Announcements, October 15, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Durham College Spa.

The Durham College Spa is offering free 60-minute massage appointments for Durham College employees and students until October 31.

Appointments are supervised by a Registered Massage Therapist and available:

Tuesday and Wednesday evenings

Fridays (all day)

Spaces are limited so book today and enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation while helping our students complete their program requirements.

Thank you for your support of our students' success.

The Durham College Spa is located at:

Durham College Oshawa campus

2nd floor, Centre for Collaborative Education

See it on our interactive map

Help Make DC's Fall Open House a Success 💚💛 - Announcements, October 15, 2025

This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects, Communications and Marketing.

Every year, Durham College (DC) hosts two Open Houses – one in the fall and one in the spring – to showcase our programs, people and campuses to prospective students and their families.

Our Fall Open House is a key recruitment event, focused on generating applications for the upcoming January, May and September intakes. It's one of our most important opportunities to inspire future students to choose DC.

This year's event takes place on Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses. Visitors will meet our faculty, learn about more than 145 career-focused programs, explore student services, tour our facilities, and experience the supportive, passionate, and genuine environment that sets DC apart.

Your participation is essential in helping us deliver a warm, engaging, and informative experience that reflects the best of who we are. Whether you're representing your Faculty, showcasing your department, or supporting event logistics, your connection with guests helps create meaningful first impressions that influence their decision to join DC. Please encourage your students to get involved – their voices matter too.

Participant roles include:

Welcoming guests

Campus tour guide

General event support

If you're interested in being part of this important day, please sign up online by Friday, October 24. Wear your DC green, share your pride, and help future students see why DC is the Best. Decision. Ever!

Academic Employee Wage Adjustments - Announcements, October 9, 2025

Further to the communication confirming a new three-year collective agreement for full-time and partial-load academic employees, the updated wage grid, which provides a 2.5% wage increase effective October 1, 2025, has been implemented:

Full-time faculty will see the wage increase reflected on the October 10th pay.

Partial-load faculty will see the wage increase reflected on the October 17th pay.

Employees are encouraged to review their pay slips and updated pay rates, though accessing the ADP Workforce Now system.

If you need assistance accessing the ADP system, please contact payrolldepartment@durhamcollege.ca.

Minimum Wage Increases - Announcements, October 9, 2025

As of October 1st, 2025, the general minimum wage in Ontario will increase to $17.60 an hour, and the minimum wage student workers will increase to $16.60 per hour.

Wage rates have been adjusted accordingly, where applicable, and will be reflected on the October 17th pay.

Employees are encouraged to review their pay slips and updated pay rates, though accessing the ADP Workforce Now system.

If you need assistance accessing the ADP system, please contact payrolldepartment@durhamcollege.ca

Sharing news of the passing of Melisa Pigozzo, faculty member, Faculty of Business and Information Technology - Announcements, October 9, 2025

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

Dear colleagues,

I am saddened to share with you the news of the recent passing of our Durham College (DC) colleague, Melisa Pigozzo, a faculty member in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology.

A graduate of DC, Melisa began her career here as a faculty member in September 2013. She taught in a number of programs, including Accounting, Office Administration, and Entrepreneurship and Small Business. Melisa was a valued colleague who generously supported new faculty through mentorship. She made significant contributions to her programs, continually enhancing her courses to provide students with the best possible learning experience.

To honour Melisa's life, the DC flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours.

Funeral details are available online. Please join me in thinking of Melisa's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.

Support to our DC community during times of loss is always available. If you need counselling or support, TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks) services can be accessed anytime by phone at 1-844-880-9142, TTY Service at 1-877-338-0275, or online at www.workhealthlife.com.

DC establishes new Space Committee - Announcements, October 9, 2025

Durham College (DC) has created a new Space Committee to take a strategic and forward-looking approach to campus space planning. Space is a limited but essential resource, and this committee will play an important role in ensuring that it's used effectively to support the college's priorities. The committee will also ensure that decisions related to planning, allocation, and management are made through a transparent and consistent process.

The Space Committee, a sub-committee of the Capital Projects Executive Steering Committee (CPESC), brings together representatives from across DC, including Academics, Administrative Support, Capital Development, Communications and Marketing, Facilities Operations, Finance, Human Resources, Registrar/Enrolment, Space Management, and Student Services.

In the months ahead, the committee will develop terms of reference and approval thresholds, create a decision-making rubric, establish a submission process for space allocation requests, and establish a review process for vacant space before reassignment.

This work will ensure that we make thoughtful, coordinated decisions that support DC's long-term needs and priorities.

We look forward to keeping you informed as the committee's work advances and new updates become available.

Matisse Hamel-Nelis, Media, Art and Design Faculty Member, releases new book on accessible communications - Announcements, October 9, 2025

Matisse Hamel-Nelis, a Media, Art and Design faculty member, has co-authored a new book titled "Accessible Communications: Create impact, avoid missteps and build trust."

This practical, easy-to-follow guide helps readers develop accessible and effective communications that build reputation and trust across all audiences. The book cuts through the jargon and provides straightforward strategies that can be applied right away.

Whether creating emails, presentations, social media posts, or other materials, this resource provides practical advice for crafting effective communications that work for everyone.

The goal is to build accessibility best practices from the start, enabling organizations to reach broader audiences, avoid common pitfalls, and strengthen trust within their communities.

Congratulations to Matisse on this achievement and for contributing to making accessibility the standard, not an afterthought.

Potential Programming and Operational Changes Related to Ongoing OPSEU Strike - Announcements, October 9, 2025

As the Ontario college full-time support staff work stoppage continues, resulting from the ongoing labour relations negotiations between the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) and College Employer Council (CEC), there has been a significant increase in strike activity at several Ontario colleges over the past week. While Durham College (DC) was not among them, the escalated activity was organized by OPSEU Central and not specific to individual colleges.

It's important to note that during last week's rallies at some other colleges, entrances were fully blocked, preventing access to campuses, creating unsafe traffic and pedestrian conditions. Should this pattern of rotating, heightened activity continue into the coming weeks, and DC is selected as a location for a rally, our campus operations will shift, including moving to remote work and classes where possible.

We may not have advance notice if our campuses are selected for a rally. However, if one is to take place at DC, we anticipate that we will know between 7 and 8 a.m. on the day of, and we will communicate the changes to our operations as soon as possible. For now, we continue to anticipate the same level of picketing activity at our campuses, which has been ongoing since the strike began on September 11.

Before you come to campus, please check your DC email, social media, mobile app, and our Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining webpage.

Your continued patience and understanding during this labour disruption is truly appreciated.

Classes and activities continue as scheduled today, Monday, October 6 - Announcements, October 9, 2025

As a follow-up to yesterday's communication, regular operations continue at Durham College (DC) today, Monday, October 6, with classes and activities running as scheduled.

When coming to campus, expect and plan for delays as picketing activity continues. Our picket line guidance is available to inform you on how to approach a picket line safely. Please be respectful and patient with our picketing colleagues who are engaged in a lawful strike and will return to our campus community when the strike is over.

Please note that a rally could take place at DC at another time. If that occurs, we anticipate that we will know between 7 and 8 a.m. on the day of, and we will communicate the changes to our operations as soon as possible. You're encouraged to check your DC email, social media, mobile app, and our Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining webpage regularly for updates.

Thank you for your ongoing patience, commitment and understanding as we navigate through the support staff work stoppage.

October CTL Compass Highlights - Announcements, October 9, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Centre for Teaching and Learning.

In the October issue of CTL Compass, we’re bringing you updates on DC Connect, Academic PD Day registration, partial-secondment opportunities, October workshops, and how to book support at the CTL.

DC Connect Tips and Tricks [ READ MORE ]

New content experience tips

Midterm Grade Submission [ READ MORE ]

Midterm grade submission: October 21

Fall Academic PD Day [ READ MORE ]

Join us October 23, 2025!

Faculty Partial Secondments [ READ MORE ]

The CTL is looking for faculty members to join our team to support the College Teaching Certificate (CTC). These positions are limited semester secondments and must be approved by your Dean prior to application.

College Teaching Certificate: Registration Open [ READ MORE ]

Registration Open… for PT faculty too!

October Professional Development [ READ MORE ]

We're here to help – schedule support online or in-person!

Fall Academic PD Day: October 23 - Announcements, October 9, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Centre for Teaching and Learning.

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This year our Fall Academic PD Day will be held on October 23, 2025, we are excited to be announcing a new framework for teaching and learning which braids together Indigenous and Eurocentric ways of knowing. Aligned with this launch is the topic of this year's Academic PD Days, Fostering Inclusivity!

Our keynote address this year is by Ela Smith and Cassie Hill from Mohawk College:

Indigegogy and Curriculum - What does it mean and how do we incorporate it.

This morning workshop will discuss Indigegogy, Miskasowin, and curriculum planning utilizing Indigenous Knowledge Learning Outcomes. It is an active workshop that will require individual reflection on intent versus impact.

How To Root Safety in Indigenous Knowledge

Cassie will share reflections from her journey, both as a Haudenosaunee woman and as a researcher exploring how to create safe digital learning spaces and what does it mean to bring Indigenous curriculum into these digital spaces in ways that are ethical, relational, trauma-informed, and rooted in responsibility.

AND more!

Academic PD Day will also include workshops on creating your own land acknowledgements, using generative AI to help create course materials with DC faculty Jennifer Bedford, learning about the recent SoTL research on campus, and the launching of a new Pedagogical Framework and Micro-Credential program for faculty.

Our friends at FPIC will be providing soup (while supplies last) and additional space for discussion.

We are excited to see you at this year's fall academic PD Day. Registration is now open through this form to secure your spot!

College Teaching Certificate: Winter Registration Open - Announcements, October 9, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of the Centre for Teaching and Learning.

As of Fall 2025, DC's Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) welcomed part-time faculty into the College Teaching Certificate (CTC) program! The CTC program is a local credential designed to strengthen your instructional skills, expand your understanding of college-level curriculum development, and enhance your confidence in developing an authentic and inclusive classroom.

What is the CTC?

Complete all five courses to earn the DC College Teaching Certificate!

During this program, faculty will:

Design curriculum, instructional strategies and assessment practices using evidence-based approaches.

Employ active learning strategies to increase student engagement and support student success.

Leverage educational technology that aligns with instructional strategies and curriculum to promote meaningful student engagement and enhance learning.

Promote safe and inclusive classrooms for diverse learner communities.

Nominal Fee: $90 (including tax) per course for part-time faculty

CTC Winter and Spring Course Offerings & Descriptions

❄️ WINTER SESSIONS • 14 weeks

EDUC1101 • Course and Curriculum Development at the College Level

Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m. (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

Expand your knowledge and design meaningful curriculum by connecting institutional and provincial standards, DC guidelines, established program requirements, and diverse ways of knowing.

EDUC1104 • Scholarship and Professional Practice for College Faculty

Fridays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

Reflect on your teaching through circular learning to develop your scholarly and professional practice by developing a Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) project or creation of a teaching portfolio.

EDUC1100 • Teaching & Learning Principles for the College Classroom

Fridays, 1 to 3 p.m. (Oshawa Campus) + 1 hour online/week

Welcome to the exciting world of curriculum development where you will be immersed in wise practices to support student engagement and learning. Develop a repertoire of teaching approaches and active learning strategies that support student engagement and learning in varied levels and educational settings.

🌸 SPRING INTENSIVE • 7 weeks

EDUC1102 • Assessment and Evaluation in College Courses (Intensive)

Fridays, 9 a.m. to 12 noon (Oshawa Campus) + 3 hours online/week

You will build varied types of assessments such as tests, case studies, and peer evaluation using wise practices, develop rubrics, and learn how to provide actionable feedback in a course of your choosing.

EDUC1101 • Course and Curriculum Development at the College Level (Intensive)

TBD, 3 hours in-person (Oshawa Campus) + 3 hour online/week

Expand your knowledge and design meaningful curriculum by connecting institutional and provincial standards, DC guidelines, established program requirements, and diverse ways of knowing.

🍁 FALL SESSIONS • 14 weeks

Course offerings will be announced in the spring.

Note: Courses can be taken in any order. Please see CTC webpage for details.

Full-time Faculty Only: Please seek approval from your Dean, then apply on a different form linked here.

Service Impact: Air Conditioning in the CFCE- Announcements, October 9, 2025

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

What: Air conditioning repaired, however building temperatures remain warm.

Where: Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE), Oshawa campus.

When: Monday, October 6

Impact: The air conditioning system in the CFCE has been repaired, however, temperatures remain warm. Please note that it will take time for the system to cool the building and for it to return to normal temperatures.

Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - October 7, 2025 - Announcements, October 9, 2025

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

As I have communicated, the collective agreement for Full-Time Support Staff expired on August 31, 2025. The College Employer Council (CEC) and OPSEU CAAT-FTSS did not reach an agreement through collective bargaining negotiations, resulting in a work stoppage.

Please read the most recent update from the CEC:

Message from the CEC, October 7, 2025

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Upcoming service outage to Banner from October 10 to 13, 2025 - Announcements, October 9, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of IT Services. Please direct inquiries to the IT Service Desk at servicedesk@dc-uoit.ca or call extension 3333.

All Durham College (DC) employees and students are advised that as part of our commitment to maintaining optimal systems and operations, an outage of Banner/MyDC and related systems will occur from Friday, October 10 at 4:30 p.m. to Monday, October 13 at 8 a.m.

In the event an extended outage is required, systems will be brought back online on Tuesday, October 14 at 6 a.m. Further communication will be distributed should this circumstance arise.

This outage will accommodate an upgrade to the core administrative information system shared by DC and Ontario Tech University.

During the outage, all Banner self-service applications will not be available, including:

Web Time Entry

Adding/dropping classes

Advisor services

Applicant portal

Application to graduate

Course book lists

Fee statements

Financial Aid profile

Grades

Password changes

Preview available courses

Student account/fee info and credit card payments

Student/faculty schedule

Student exam schedule

SWF

Web transcripts

The following services will be available with little or no impact during the outage:

MyDC (excluding administrative self-service applications listed previously)

DC Connect

Wireless network (CAMPUS-AIR)

OneCard (ID card database)

Student email accounts

Targeted messages and announcements

email, ICE, ADP and SilkRoad

There will be limited availability to:

Blackboard transact (meal plan)

Class (Athletics)

Clockwork (new students who have never used the system will not be able to use the system)

Campus Library software

Cognos (data will not be refreshed until Banner upgrade is complete)

Sharing news regarding the passing of retiree Debbie Morrison - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

Dear colleagues,

I am saddened to share with you that our former Durham College (DC) colleague, Debbie Morrison, passed away on September 20.

Debbie began her 38-year career at DC in 1987, where she played a key role in advancing healthcare programs in the Faculty of Health Sciences until her retirement in 2025. Debbie was a guiding force in the Practical Nursing program, serving as Professor, Program Coordinator, Chair, and Program Lead. She also held leadership roles as Associate Dean and as the coordinator of several programs, including Critical Care Nursing, Fitness and Health Promotion, Massage Therapy, and Personal Support Worker.

Visitation and funeral details are available online. Please join me in keeping Debbie's family and friends in your thoughts during this difficult time.

Support to our DC community during times of loss is always available. If you need counselling services or support, our provider, TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks), can be accessed anytime by phone at 1-844-880-9142 or through the TTY Service at 1-877-338-0275, or online at www.workhealthlife.com.

Notice of Service Disruption – HVAC Failure, A-Wing - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: HVAC Failure – A-Wing

What: The main A-Wing air handler unit has failed and is currently out of service.

Where: A wing

When: Wednesday, September 30

Impact: No air conditioning in the following areas until repairs are complete:

President's Office

Dental, Second Floor

A-Wing, First Floor

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Thank you for your patience and co-operation.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - September 24, 2025 - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

Please read the most recent update from the CEC:

Message from the CEC, September 24, 2025

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Impact of Canada Post strike action - Announcements, October 2, 2025

This message is sent on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic, Senior Director, Facilities Operations and Engineering. Please direct inquiries to ShippingAndReceiving@dc-ot.ca.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), which represents urban, suburban and rural Canada Post mail carriers, has taken a strike position, effective Thursday, September 25.

As a result, you should expect delays in on-campus mail. Please keep the potential disruption in mind when planning your orders.

For additional information on Canada Post and CUPW negotiations, visit the Canada Post negotiations updates web page.

Service Disruption: Water out of service in South Wing - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Water service, South Wing

What: Water is currently out of service in the South Wing. Repairs are underway to restore it.

Where: SW wing

When: Friday , September 26

Impact:

There is no hot or cold water available in South Wing until repairs are complete. This is impacting the following areas in the South Wing:

Starbucks

Dental, First floor

Washrooms and kitchens

Thank you for your patience as we work to repair this issue.

Update from the College Employer Council related to Full-Time Support Staff Bargaining - September 29, 2025 - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

Please read the most recent update from the CEC:

Message from the CEC, September 29, 2025

The CEC's updates, as well as other materials, are available on the CEC website.

Honouring Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Announcements, October 2, 2025

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

Today, Durham College (DC) joins people and organizations across Canada in marking Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Together, we honour the strength and resilience of Survivors, their families, and communities, while also recognizing the truths of the harms caused by the residential school system.

This year carries special significance as we mark the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Final Report and Calls to Action. As educators, we play a critical role in this work by addressing systemic barriers, creating inclusive environments, and empowering change.

At DC, our deepened commitment to reconciliation is reflected in our Strategic Vision, where we are supporting Indigenous-led programs that uplift students, employees and communities, upholding Indigenous rights, advancing reconciliation, and fostering a sense of belonging.

Some examples of this work include advancing initiatives that integrate Indigenous ways of knowing into teaching and learning, amplifying Indigenous voices and stories, and providing a new Indigenous Awareness Training Series for employees focused on reconciliation, history, and working with Indigenous students.

We acknowledge that our work is far from done. Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that requires commitment from all of us. We encourage you to continue learning and reflecting, whether through resources at the DC Library, our online collection highlighting DC's commitment to Indigenization, or the free Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation modules.

Throughout September, DC's First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC) has provided opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage, encouraging our community to consider how each of us can contribute to change. You are invited to take the next step by attending today's Orange Shirt Day Mini Powwow at the Naanaagide'endamowin “The Art of Thinking" Courtyard, at 10 a.m. This is an opportunity to witness Indigenous culture, learn, and show support in a respectful way. All are welcome.

As a symbol of our commitment, the Every Child Matters flag has been raised at both campuses, and all flags lowered to half-mast, and the DC sign at the Oshawa campus is illuminated in orange.

Let us honour Survivors and the children who never returned home by walking together toward a future rooted in truth, respect, and reconciliation.

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Coffee Chats with Elaine - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Campus Health and Wellness Centre - Flu Vaccines and Supports Available to Employees - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Reminder: Social Impact Hub hosts ‘Voices of Impact - Raising Resilient Families’, November 26 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Temporary Change to Weekly Cheque Run - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Notice of Service Disruption – Entrance closure, Oshawa Campus - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Durham College 2026 Job Fair Registration is now open with discounted rates until November 28, 2025 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Durham College (Whitby Campus – Exclusively Durham College) - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Mature students are invited to explore Durham College: December 2 and 3 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

End of Semester Event in South Village Dining Hall - Finale Under the Stars - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Double your impact to the student Food Access Bursary - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Vanessa Ng, Desson Spencer named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, December 4, 2025

John Watkins inducted into Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame - Announcements, December 4, 2025

This Week in International Education - New Off-Campus Trip - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Upcoming Change to Our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Accessing and navigating the new employee self-service platform - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Winners of the College Policy and Procedure Awareness Quiz - Announcements, December 4, 2025

The 10 Days of Deals Are BACK at the Campus Store ! - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Get into the holiday spirit with DC - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Get to know DC: Meet the Test Centre Team - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Recognize National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women at DC on Thursday, December 4 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Let’s communicate better: Complete the Internal Communications Survey - Announcements, December 4, 2025

CAAT Pension Session – Service Purchase Education for the Strike Period - Announcements, December 4, 2025

College Wellness Committee releases revised Mental Health and Well-being Framework - Announcements, December 4, 2025

December Clothing Swap Community Day on December 10 - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Upgraded employee Self-Service portal now live - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Elizabeth McFarland, Rashane Smith named Athletes of the Week - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Three DC women's rugby players compete on international stage - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Candy cane sales in support of the DC Food Access Bursary - Announcements, November 20, 2025

Durham College recognizes Remembrance Day - Announcements, November 20, 2025

This week in International Education: Meet us at The Pit - Announcements, November 20, 2025

Upcoming service outage to Banner from November 21 to 24, 2025 - Announcements, November 20, 2025

November 16th: Louis Riel Day: Honouring a Métis Leader and His Legacy - Announcements, November 20, 2025

Campus Winter Weather Procedures - Announcements, November 20, 2025

November Payday Lottery Winner: Congratulations, Scott! - Announcements, December 4, 2025

Mature students are invited to explore Durham College: December 2 and 3 - Announcements, December 4, 2025