Visit the Durham College News and Media webpage for the current developments.
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.
Brandon Bird is an external Governor who joined the Durham College (DC) Board of Governors in September 2024. A proud graduate of DC's Plumbing program, Brandon has built a successful career in the skilled trades, and now serves as CEO of Bird Infrastructure Ltd.
He brings valuable industry insight, entrepreneurial experience, and a strong connection to the college. Brandon shared with us how his time at DC shaped his leadership journey and his desire to give back to the community.
What motivated you to get involved with the DC Board of Governors?
I've been involved with DC's Program Advisory Committees since 2014, and that's really when I saw firsthand how much of an impact you can have on a program. A few years later I was approached to join the DC Foundation Board, and what solidified my decision was knowing I could have an impact and help make a real difference for the students of DC and the community. This is why it felt like a natural next step to join the Board of Governors, so that I could continue to make meaningful changes.
What inspires you most about DC, its employees or its students?
What inspires me most about DC is its employees, because to me they are the ones who really make a difference, they are the ones who inspire students to choose DC as their next step. Even at the Board of Governors level, when we're reviewing new programs or updates, you can feel how passionate the faculty are with anything that involves DC and its students. That kind of energy naturally carries over to the students and becomes a big reason why some of the best students are drawn to DC in the first place.
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?
What really resonated with me during the process of making this Strategic Vision was gaining a new perspective on what “Durham's College" truly means. It's not just a college that happens to be located in Durham; it's the college for Durham region. That doesn't mean only local students come here, but it does speak to the impact DC has on the community and the region. Seeing just how many students from outside the area choose DC was eye-opening. It really highlighted the reach, reputation, and influence the college has, both locally and beyond.
If you had the opportunity to return to DC as a student, what program would you take?
If I had the chance to come back to DC as a student, I'd choose a program in the business field. I already have a strong technical foundation built through my trade program at DC, but adding formal business education would really help me better understand how to further grow and guide the company. Strengthening that side of things would give me an even stronger base to build on for the future. And really, extra knowledge is never going to hurt.
How did your experience graduating from the plumbing program and later becoming the Chief Executive Officer of your family's business, shape the way you approach leadership today?
Graduating from the Plumbing program really gave me the foundation I needed to grow within my family business. It strengthened my technical skills and helped me understand the theory behind the work we do every day. The hands-on projects, real world scenarios, and exposure to things like estimating, shop drawings, and project planning pushed me outside my comfort zone and showed me that leadership in construction goes far beyond the physical installs. Having that well rounded base allowed me to build confidently on what the family business has already established, and it's shaped the way I lead today, with a real appreciation for both the practical, hands-on side of the work and the bigger picture responsibilities that keep a company moving forward.
This message is being shared on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Chief Returning Officer, Durham College Board of Governors.
We are pleased to announce that Abigail Ansell (Sports Management) has been acclaimed as the 2026-2027 Student Governor on the Durham College Board of Governors.
Her term will begin September 1, 2026.
Congratulations Abigail!
This message is shared on behalf of Adriana Hajdari, Advancement Data and Analytics Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
🎉 Congratulations, Cecilia Barnes! 🎉
We're excited to announce that Cecilia Barnes is this month's Payday Lottery Winner! Cecilia has won a total of $1,132.50, 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!
This message is being sent on behalf of the Green Impact Team.
As we approach Earth Month, the Green Impact Team invites you to drop by next week and meet the team to learn about our current and future sustainability initiatives. Join us for some fun activities, trivia and learn how one small pledge can make a measurable impact!
Meet the Green Impact Team
The Green Impact Team is a cross-campus group of staff, faculty and students working to advance sustainability in DC through awareness, engagement and operational change.
What We're Working On:
Bee City Campus initiatives (pollinator gardens, invasive plants, etc.)
Campus clean-ups and community partnerships
Sustainable food and awareness
Campus engagement activities and campaigns (i.e. Wear a Sweater Day, Earth Hour, etc.)
Environmental impact on campus (recycling programs, energy conservation initiatives)
How You Can Get Started:
Join the Green Impact Team
Participate in Green Impact Team events or initiatives
Make personal sustainable choices
Share ideas to improve sustainability on campus
Follow and support sustainability initiatives across campus and within our community.
Be sure to check out the schedule below for dates, times, and locations—we hope to see you there!
This message is being sent on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education. Please direct inquiries to military@durhamcollege.ca.
As a follow-up to the March 16 message regarding Durham College's (DC) Military-Connected College initiative, I am sharing the details of two important upcoming learning opportunities designed specifically for employees to gain a deeper understanding of this work and the distinct needs of the military-connected learner community.
As an important market to DC, Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans transitioning to civilian life, and military family members often follow distinctive education and career pathways. Many require retraining, flexible learning options, and supportive environments that recognize both their lived experiences and the realities of military life. These workshops will help employees better understand the backgrounds and challenges of military-connected learners and how we can support the transitions many of them navigate.
All employees are encouraged to complete CAF 101. Employees in identified roles are also encouraged to participate in CAF 102 to support their work with military-connected learners.
CAF 101 – Online asynchronous workshop module
Approximate completion time: 1 hour 30 minutes
The Military-connected Learner – Canadian Armed Forces Training for Employees (CAF 101) is an online, self‑paced professional development module that introduces employees to the unique experiences and needs of military-connected learners. It provides foundational knowledge and serves as preparation for the CAF 102 workshop sessions.
The course is available on Brightspace. Search for “Canadian Armed Forces Training for Employees" on the Discover page.
CAF 102 – In-person workshop sessions
Two in-person workshops will build on the CAF 101 module and explore practical approaches to supporting military-connected learners across the college.
Workshop session one: Military-connected learners (marketing and enrolment)
This session focuses on attracting, recruiting, and enrolling military-connected learners. While all employees are welcome to attend, it is particularly relevant for employees involved in marketing, recruiting, admissions, transfer services, and academic areas, including Professional and Part-Time Learning.
Topics include:
Student attraction imagery, language, and military-connected populations
Credit for prior learning and student funding opportunities
Interactive activities and group discussion
Training dates:
Wednesday, April 1 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in CIR 102
Tuesday, April 14 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in CIR 102
Workshop session two: Military-connected learners (engagement and support)
This session focuses on student engagement and persistence for military-connected learners. All employees are welcome to attend, though it will be of particular interest to employees in academic and student affairs areas.
Topics include:
Mental and physical health considerations
Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) resources
Interactive activities and group discussion
Training dates:
Wednesday, April 1 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in CIR 102
Tuesday, April 14 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in CIR 102
Your participation will help shape how DC designs and delivers the supports and services that enable military-connected learners to succeed.
Please register here for any of the four sessions.
Becoming a military-connected college reflects DC's commitment to attracting and serving diverse communities. By deepening our understanding of this population, we can ensure they have access to the supports and resources they need, and that they feel a strong sense of belonging at DC.
This message is being shared on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education. Please direct any questions to Melanie Maloney, Functional Business Analyst, Office of the Registrar.
On March 24, Durham College (DC) is launching an enhanced Self-Service dashboard, making it easy for students to access their personal information and complete important financial and administration tasks, all in one place.
The Self-Service dashboard will be available through MyDC and the DC Mobile App, with the same tools and information available in both platforms.
What's new?
Modern, easy-to-navigate design that helps students quickly find what they need.
Customizable dashboard so students can organize the tools and information most important to them.
Newly added functions, making this a one-stop hub for actionable tasks, such as:
View timetable
Check and pay tuition balance
Request a transcript
Manage student record
Improved mobile access through the DC Mobile App for quick access on the go.
Supporting students in the new Self-Service dashboard
The MyDC homepage will continue to feature news, announcements, and important institutional updates. To help you assist students with questions about the new dashboard, the following resources are available:
Teaser video: Preview the new layout and navigation
Self-Service Student Dashboard FAQ Guide
Employee Guide – Self-Service Student Dashboard
This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing + Student Recruitment, Communications + Marketing.
Are your students who will soon be graduating interested in continuing their education at DC? Tell them about our upcoming in-person application sessions.
Students who are graduating this year, as well as recent graduates, are invited to attend the sessions to apply for their next DC program. As a bonus, we will waive the $150 Ontario Colleges application fee for those who apply during the sessions below.
Whitby campus
Location: Don Lovisa Building, Room 2-13
Tuesday, April 7
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Event calendar + registration link https://durhamcollege.ca/event/durham-college-graduates-reapply-for-free
Oshawa campus
Location: Student Services Building, Room 116B
Wednesday, April 8
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Event calendar + registration link https://durhamcollege.ca/event/durham-college-graduates-reapply-for-free-2
Questions? Please contact:
Melinda Kelly
Senior Student Recruitment Officer
Communications + Marketing
melinda.kelly@durhamcollege.ca
The following message is being sent on behalf of Barbara MacCheyne, vice-president corporate services and chief financial officer.
To assist the finance department in properly recording revenue and expenditure transactions for this fiscal year and to ensure that we have an efficient closing of the books on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, please take note of the following deadlines and related procedures.
Procurement
Purchase orders
To ensure that expenses for goods that are physically received or services incurred by Tuesday, March 31 are captured as a fiscal 2025-26 expenditure, the following guidelines must be followed:
Any purchase requisitions required after Friday, February 27 for the 2025-26 fiscal year must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, VP of Corporate Services & CFO. The expected delivery date of the goods must be indicated on the requisition to ensure that the PO is properly recorded in the correct fiscal year. No purchase orders will be issued after Friday, March 6 for fiscal 2025-26. Proper accounting procedures require that items purchased during the current fiscal year but received after March 31, 2026 be charged to the next fiscal year. Thus, these purchases will be recorded as an expense when the goods and services are received in fiscal 2026-27.
FAST users need to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report via the FAST Webreq module. This process will assist staff in identifying their Outstanding Purchase Orders, invoices paid and remaining balance on those Orders. For instructions on how to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report, please refer to ICE: My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions. If any of your outstanding Purchase Orders can be closed, please email Doris Tapp at doris.tapp@durhamcollege.ca and reference the Purchase Order number and reason for closing (ex. paid already, invoice already sent to AP, vendor no longer supplying goods).
NOTE: If submitting an invoice to Accounts Payable that is final payment, please indicate this on the invoice so that the Purchase Order can be closed out.
NOTE: If your order will be received after March 31, please email Donny Gough at donny.gough@durhamcollege.ca and inquire about how to issue an advance Purchase Order for fiscal 2026-27. This is only permitted if budget exists for fiscal year 2026-27.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding purchase orders, please email Kevin Jones at kevin.jones@durhamcollege.ca.
Accounting
Accounts payable – vendor invoices
To ensure that all expenses are booked against the correct fiscal period, please forward all properly approved and correctly coded invoices to Accounts Payable for processing as soon as possible and no later than Thursday, April 2. Please indicate the purchase order number on the invoice where applicable to ensure purchase orders are closed out properly. If an invoice has not been received but there is sufficient support to accrue an expense to the current fiscal year, please provide the supporting documentation by Thursday, April 2.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding payment of invoices, please contact accountsPayable@durhamcollege.ca.
Corporate MasterCard statements
To ensure the proper recording of purchases made on your corporate MasterCard, we ask that you complete your MasterCard Reconciliation in the FAST PCARD module by the 23rd of each month. Copies of the reconciled statement, approved by the appropriate level, and attached with supporting receipts must be submitted by the following due date:
March credit card reconciliations must be submitted to Accounts Payable by Monday, March 23.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding corporate MasterCard expenditures, please email Gabriela Rantisi at gabriela.rantisi@durhamcollege.ca.
Expense reports
The expense report for reimbursement of expenses incurred to March 31 must be submitted to Accounts Payable –no later than Thursday, April 2 for processing. All expense reports are submitted to reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca. Please ensure that all supporting receipts and travel/business forms are provided and that the expense report form (located on ICE; Forms: Finance; Expense Report) is properly approved and coded. Claims for expenses incurred after March 31 must be reported on a separate expense form.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding expense report reimbursements, please email Gabriela Rantisi at: reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca.
Travel advances
Please ensure all travel advances for travel completed by March 31 are reconciled and submitted to Accounts Payable, attention Gabriela Rantisi no later than Wednesday, April 1.
Petty cash reimbursements
Departments that have a petty cash float must forward the receipts and reconciliation to Allan MacDonald in the Student Services Building no later than the end of business on Wednesday, April 1.
Note that all floats must be replenished to their full authorized value for year-end. Should you require a replenishment of a particular float or if you are closing out a float, email Allan MacDonald no later than Friday, March 6 to schedule a mutually agreed upon time to pick up/deliver.
Finally, float close-outs should be brought into the Student Services Building no later than 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25 to ensure it is recorded in fiscal year 2025-26.
If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact Norah Warmuth at norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.
Invoicing external customers (Accounts Receivable)
The final date and time that we will be able to process invoices through Banner is Monday, March 30 at 3 p.m. To ensure that all revenue earned to March 31 is captured in the proper fiscal period in Banner, please forward the invoicing details for services rendered or fees to be charged to external customers to the Accounts Receivable department – AccountsReceivable-Trade@durhamcollege.ca by Wednesday, March 25. All invoicing details submitted after Wednesday, March 25 and before Wednesday, April 1 for services rendered to March 31 will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26 and invoiced in Banner in fiscal 2026-27.
If you have any questions regarding Accounts Receivable, please email Deborah Duff at Deborah.duff@durhamcollege.ca.
If you have any questions regarding any of the accounting deadlines above, please email Norah Warmuth, manager, Accounting at norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.
Payroll
Payroll timesheets
For all part-time and contract employees, please ensure timesheets are approved and submitted to payroll by Tuesday, March 10 for both the PT/Contract faculty and support staff for March 20 pay date.
For all full-time support staff employees, please forward all outstanding overtime or other payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 11 for processing on the March 19 pay date.
For all full-time administrative employees and faculty, please forward all outstanding payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 18 for processing on the March 27 pay date.
If there should be March timesheets or payroll adjustments that miss this cutoff, please forward to payroll by Wednesday, April 1 and these will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26.
If you have any questions concerning timesheets, please contact Jenny Razak, manager, payroll at jenny.razak@durhamcollege.ca.
Summary of key cut-off dates for 2025-26 year-end processing
Monday, February 23 – Employee February MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable
Friday, February 27 – New purchase requisitions must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, CFO
Friday, February 27 – Open Purchase Order Report due to Purchasing
Tuesday, March 10 – Payroll adjustments for part-time / contract faculty and support staff due to Payroll
Wednesday, March 11 – Payroll adjustments for full-time support employees due to payroll
Wednesday, March 18 - Payroll adjustments for full-time administrative and faculty due to Payroll
Monday, March 23 – Employee March MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable
Wednesday, March 25 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for invoicing in Banner
Tuesday, March 31 – Final day for goods or services to be completed/received for recording into 2025-26
Wednesday, April 1 – Travel advances for travel expenses in fiscal 2025-26 due to Accounts Payable for processing
Wednesday, April 1 – Outstanding payroll adjustments for period ended March 31 due to payroll for year-end accrual
Wednesday, April 1 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for customer invoicing year-end accrual
Wednesday, April 1 – Petty cash reconciliations due
Thursday, April 2 – Expense reports due to Accounts Payable
Thursday, April 2 – Vendor invoices due to Accounts Payable and any expenses that can be accrued for
Your continued efforts in ensuring a proper fiscal year closing and maintaining fiscal accountability are greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy and Assistant to the President.
What, You Want My Records? Understanding Access Requests
When an access request comes in, it’s easy to feel caught off guard—especially when the records are emails, notes, or files you created yourself. It can feel personal. This Privacy in Practice session brings the focus back to the fundamentals: under Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act records belong to the institution, not the individual.
Join us virtually on Thursday, April 2 at 2:00 p.m. for a 30-minute discussion about what happens when someone asks for records and what organizations are required to do in response. We’ll cover what counts as an access request, what records are in scope, what timelines apply, and how decisions about disclosure are made. The goal is simple: to take the mystery (and the stress) out of access requests and replace it with a clear understanding of the process and everyone’s role when a request is received.
To register for the session, email Melissa Pringle at melissa.pringle@durhamcollege.ca.
This message is sent on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.
Please be advised that the Campus Fieldhouse and Founders 3 parking lot at the Oshawa campus, are temporarily closed due to a fire and resulting burst pipe.
Students and employees who use the Founders 3 lot can park in the Founders 2 lot today.
Thank you for patience.
This message is being shared on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education. Please direct any questions to Melanie Maloney, Functional Business Analyst, Office of the Registrar.
The new Student Self-Service dashboard is now live, providing a modern, intuitive way for students to access personal student information and complete financial and administrative tasks.
Available through MyDC and the DC Mobile App, the enhanced design offers a modern, more personalized experience to help students find what they need and stay on track throughout the semester.
Using the Self-Service dashboard: What students need to know
The Self-Service dashboard will serve as the primary location for action-based student tasks, such as:
Viewing timetables
Checking and paying tuition balances
Requesting transcripts
Managing student records
Students can access the same tools and information through either platform, whether they prefer the DC Mobile App and MyDC on desktop. For the fastest, most convenient experience, students are encouraged to download the DC Mobile App.
The MyDC homepage will continue to feature news, announcements, and important institutional updates.
To help you assist students with questions about the new platform, the following resources are available:
Teaser video: Preview the new layout and navigation
Self-Service Student Dashboard FAQ Guide
Employee Guide – Self-Service Student Dashboard
This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director Student and Career Development. Please direct any questions to Tyler Creces, Student Success Coordinator.
On Saturday, March 21, the Student Development Office hosted the 12th annual Institute of Student Leadership (ISL) Summit. The day provided students with an opportunity to learn more about themselves, walk away with a new language to describe themselves and how they add value.
Students spent the morning reviewing their How to Fascinate®️assessment results and learning:
their unique advantages
how their advantages can both support and challenge them, and
how to be fascinating
But they didn't just learn - they connected with the materials, created their personal anthem that captured who they are at their best, and then practiced getting comfortable saying it.
The day was filled with reflection, insight, and celebration, highlighting what we already know: DC students are ready to lead with pride!
Thank you to those who shared this opportunity with their students. We are excited to see what these emerging leaders will do next!
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement. 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 Education Office invites faculty and staff to help share International Alumni Talks 2026, taking place on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. in CIR102 (Oshawa campus). This annual event supports graduating international students as they transition into the Canadian workforce through an international alumni panel and facilitated speed‑networking with employers and industry professionals. This year's speakers represent sectors including information security, energy, legal services, communications, and financial services, with participation from organizations such as Ontario Power Generation, the Region of Durham, and BMO. While designed primarily for graduating students and recent international grads, current international students are also welcome to attend. The registration link is available on our Linktree.
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems, Facilities Management.
Please be aware that both elevators in the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food are currently out of service due to mechanical failure. There is currently no elevator access to the second floor or basement of the building.
We'll share an update when more information is available.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
This message is being sent on behalf of IT Services and Communications and Marketing. Please direct inquiries to Justin Christie, Manager, Digital Media, Communications and Marketing.
As a follow-up to our previous message about migrating the Info Centre for Employees (ICE), DC's intranet, to Microsoft's secure cloud platform, we are confirming that the migration will take place Saturday, March 28 to Sunday, March 29, with work expected to be completed by Monday, March 30.
This upgrade is part of a broader IT initiative to enhance the reliability, security and long-term sustainability of Durham College's digital tools. Moving ICE to the cloud will position the platform for continued improvements and ensure alignment with Microsoft's upcoming end-of-support timeline.
During the migration window, ICE may be temporarily unavailable or experience limited functionality.
What employees can expect
Following the migration, employees will notice a few updates to the ICE platform:
DC's centralized public calendar will be integrated into ICE, providing a single, up-to-date view of college-wide events.
Links to past ICE announcements previously shared through email or DC Digest will no longer function. Past announcements will remain accessible directly within ICE. All new announcement links created after the migration will function as expected.
Once the migration is complete, we will send a follow-up communication confirming that the transition was successful and that ICE is fully accessible to all employees.
Thank you for your patience and support as we strengthen DC's digital environment.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Amber Edgerton (women's rugby), Devonne Henry (men's rugby) and Jasean Elliott (men's basketball) were named the Durham College athletes of the year on Wednesday night in an awards-filled evening celebrating hundreds of athletes, coaches, trainers and staff to end the 2025-26 varsity season.
Sarah Clayton (women's rugby) and Owen Mailhot (golf) earned overall freshman athlete of the year honours, while Chloe Hercia (women's soccer) and Teagan Marks (men's soccer) were the Bonnie Ginter-Brown Leadership Award winners.
54th DURHAM COLLEGE ATHLETIC BANQUET AWARD WINNERS
"Margaret Greenley" Overall Female Athlete of the Year Award
Amber Edgerton - Women's Rugby
"William Avery Memorial" Overall Male Athlete of the Year Award
Devonne Henry - Men's Rugby
Jasean Elliott - Men's Basketball
Female Freshman Athlete of the Year
Sarah Clayton - Women's Rugby
"David Stewart" Male Freshman Athlete of the Year
Owen Mailhot - Golf
"Bonnie Ginter-Brown" Leadership Award
Chloe Hercia - Women's Soccer
Teagan Marks - Men's Soccer
"Bert Dejeet Memorial Award" Top GPA
Taylor Wood - Women's Rugby & Basketball
Ripken Shaver - Men's Basketball
Connor DeLuca - Men's Rugby
Evan Brown - Men's Curling
#DC4DC Award
Women's Volleyball
SPECIAL AWARDS
Five-Year Award
Danika Johnston - Women's Rugby
Megan Bent - Women's Rugby
Morgan Salter - Women's Softball
Ryan Mattes - Men's Baseball
Brooke Young - Women's Volleyball
Alisia Lush - Women's Volleyball
Four-Year Award
Sean Michalicka - Golf
Jocelyn Shelton - Women's Softball
Erik Smith - Men's Baseball
Eddie Borutskie - Men's Baseball
Daniella Kimevski - Women's Rugby
Chloe Hercia - Women's Soccer
Shelby Khan - Women's Soccer
Sage Thomas-Roberts - Women's Soccer
Jaime Pye - Women's Soccer
Teagan Marks - Men's Soccer
Deandre Watkis - Men's Soccer
Aiesha Lewis - Women's Basketball
Tia Chang - Women's Volleyball
Athletic Therapy Student Trainer of the Year
Noah Mossavat
Strength & Conditioning Commitment Award
Jessica Docherty - Women's Volleyball
Ryan Mattes - Men's Baseball
Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year
Benjamin Rocheleau
"Ken Babcock" Athletic Director's Award of Excellence
Abi Ansell - Game Day Staff
NuStadia Recreation Award
Emily Taylor - Women's Softball
Matthew Paredes - Men's Volleyball
TEAM-BY-TEAM AWARDS
Men's Baseball
"Boom Baker" MVP: Eddie Borutskie
"Bob Johnston" Rookie of the Year: Ryan McGivney
"Sam Dempster" Leadership Award: Malik James
Top Pitcher: Matt Jones
Women's Softball
"Richard Snowden" MVP: Emily Taylor
Rookie of the Year: Georgia Willsie
"Jim Nemish" Leadership Award: Jayden Bennett
Top Pitcher: Makayla Benz
Golf
"Gerry Pettit" Men's MVP: Owen Mailhot
"Ryan Hughes" Rookie of the Year: Colby Hercia
"Tyler Martin" Leadership Award: Cory Pharand
Women's Soccer
"Vaso Vujanovic" MVP: Julia Fontana
"Gail Reid" Rookie of the Year: Kadi Sutherland
"Gord Oliver" Leadership Award: Chloe Hercia
Men's Soccer
"Vaso Vujanovic" MVP: Michael Arfanis
"Mario Bombino" Rookie of the Year: Michael Arfanis
"Gord Oliver" Leadership Award: Zachery Hamedi
Indoor Soccer
Women's MVP: Jaime Pye
Men's MVP: Daniel Trueman
Women's Rugby
MVP: Amber Edgerton & Camryn Wood
Rookie of the Year: Sarah Clayton
Leadership Award: Hayden Venedam
Men's Rugby
MVP: Devonne Henry
Rookie of the Year: Taylor Payne
Leadership Award: Owen MacKinnon
Women's Basketball
"Bonnie Slaughter" MVP: Sarah-Jane Laplante & Telia Campbell
"Lindsay Panchan" Rookie of the Year: Kathy Orellana
Leadership Award: Aiesha Lewis
Men's Basketball
"Ted Harrison" MVP: Jasean Elliott
"Anthony Batchelor" Rookie of the Year: Jayden Genereux
"Ernie Rainbow" Leadership Award: Rudy Fakih
Women's Volleyball
"Stan Marchut" MVP: Elizabeth McFarland
"Carol Cruwys-Hart" Rookie of the Year: Julie Wong
Leadership Award: Brooke Young
Men's Volleyball
"Laurence Bishop" MVP: Jonas Felix
"David Dobson" Rookie of the Year: Jack Hendry
Leadership Award: Ravi Hunter
Curling
Women's MVP: Madison Davies
Men's MVP: Canyon Myers
Rookie of the Year: Carson Maki
Leadership Award: Vanessa Ng
Esports
Call of Duty MVP: James Zarafonitis
Counter-Strike 2 MVP: Nicolas Pineda
League of Legends MVP: Matthew Mason
Marvel Rivals MVP: Alex Beleaga
Rocket League MVP: Jared Greenwood
Super Smash Brothers Ultimate MVP: Star Solaiman
Valorant MVP: Ethan Minogue
Leadership Award: Nicolas Pineda
Durham College (DC) is proud to host the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 at our Oshawa campus.
More than 30 high school teams from across Ontario will compete with industrial-sized, 120 lb robots they have designed, built and programmed. Teams will put their creations to the test in an action-packed game played on a themed field as part of this year's REBUILT™ competition.
With guidance from engineering mentors and industry professionals, students apply their knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a competitive setting. Along the way, they build collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the competition floor.
DC is excited to support an event that inspires young innovators to explore future pathways in STEM and the skilled trades. Hosting this competition reflects our commitment to applied learning and preparing students for in-demand, rewarding careers.
The event is free and open to the public.
When
Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 15 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where
Oshawa campus, Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, Gyms 3, 4 and 5
Parking
Free parking available in Founders Lot 2
This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca.
The CTL Compass Express is a digital newsletter, shared exclusively on ICE, from the Centre for Teaching & Learning. Similar to the CTL Compass, the Express is tailored for DC faculty members and academic staff but is delivered as a just-in-time resource throughout the academic year!
Students in the lab with a faculty member examining a skeleton of an animal.
2024_CTL_CompassFull_FC500.png
Winter Semester ❄️ March 2026
In this issue
ICE HIGHLIGHTS
Coursedog Login Update
ALL ABOUT TEACHING & LEARNING
Calling all FT Faculty Members 📣 Registration is Open for Fall CTC!
The AI Files / Word Power: Talk, Type, TrAInsform! Part 1 - Dictate
WHAT'S NEW?
Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ Feedback
UPCOMING CTL-HOSTED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS
Still haven’t hoped on the AI train? Here is an opportunity to get onboard!
Creating a Faculty Introduction Video with Adobe Express Templates
DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements
External Professional Development Opportunities
💻 All about Teaching & Learning
Calling all FT Faculty Members 📣 Registration is Open for Fall CTC!
Registration is now open for full-time faculty members wishing to take the fourth course in the College Teaching Certificate: EDUC 1103: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning.
EDUC 1103: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning
When: Fridays, during the Fall Semester
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Delivery mode: In Person + 1 hour asynchronous weekly
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning - EDUC1103
Explore how identity, bias, positionality, systemic structures, and belonging shape learning experiences, while weaving inclusive, trauma-informed, and relational practices into your teaching. Critically examine current issues in equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB), and consider their impact on teaching, learning, and assessment. Deepen your understanding of how learner supports, and assessment strategies can enhance success for students with accommodations. This journey invites you to reflect on your own biases, position, and teaching practices, reframe your role in creating safer spaces, and braid together inclusive pedagogies that honour all learners. Rooted in wholistic approaches and guided by the principles of reciprocity, relationships, respect, and responsibility, discover how to cultivate learning environments where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Interested? Register now.
❗️ If you wish to register, please speak with your AD/ED for approval.
The AI Files - S2 E3 - Word Power: Talk, Type, TrAInsform! Part 1 - Dictate
Join Corey Gill as he explores how Microsoft Word’s applied AI tools can transform the way you create, capture, and refine your ideas. In this episode, we dive into two features that can boost your productivity and support accessibility in your workflow: Dictate and Transcribe. Discover how to turn your voice into polished text, how to upload audio for instant transcription, and how these tools can streamline lesson planning, documentation, note‑taking, or student support. With Word’s AI‑powered capabilities, you can work faster, reduce friction, and bring more clarity and efficiency to your everyday tasks; all while keeping your workflow simple and accessible for everyone. Part 1 of this episode focuses on the Dictate feature:
📌 Check back next month for Part 2 of this episode on the Transcribe feature!
🆕 What's New
Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ Feedback
Thank you for joining Winter Academic PD Day on March 5th. The 2026-2030 Academic Plan was launched by Dr. Jean Choi and we engaged in a workshop about building an inclusive classroom community.
💡 If you joined us during Winter Academic PD Day we would love to hear your thoughts about the day. Please complete the feedback survey with your thoughts.
🎓 Upcoming CTL-Hosted Professional Development Sessions
Still haven’t hopped on the AI train? Here is an opportunity to get onboard!
March 19, 9 to 10 a.m.
Microsoft Teams
Braiding Knowledge Ring: Creating Connection
Discover how Microsoft Copilot can make your daily work easier, faster, and more creative; no prior AI experience required. This introductory session walks educators through what AI is, how Copilot works across Microsoft 365, and where to access it in the tools you already use. Learn how to offload routine tasks, improve productivity, and build durable AI skills that support your teaching. We’ll also explore helpful Copilot features like chat history, renaming conversations, and creating personalized agents when you’re ready for more.
Whether you’re curious, cautious, or simply busy, this 50 minute hands-on introduction will give you the foundation you need to confidently begin using AI in your day to day work.
Creating a Faculty Introduction Video with Adobe Express Templates
March 24, 10 to 11 a.m.
Microsoft Teams
Braiding Knowledge Rings: Creating Connection and Fostering Inclusivity
Come learn how to use Adobe Express templates to make an introduction video for your classes. We will explore template options, customize visuals and messaging, and learn simple techniques for recording voice narration and webcam video to help students connect with them from day one.
DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements
March 20, 10 to 11 a.m.
Microsoft Teams
Braiding Knowledge Rings: Creating Connection and Fostering Inclusivity
Have you used our DC Connect template but never explored using the existing interactive elements to better organize your content? When using the interactive elements, have you wished there was a way to customize them without knowing html code? Then please join us for a workshop focusing on how incorporate these interactive elements into your content; and how to use an Interactive Quiz Tool that can be added directly to your content pages as formative assessment.
Note: The content explored in this session extends naturally from Using DC Connect Templates and Using DC Connect Templates Drop-In sessions. It is strongly recommended that learners attend either of those sessions prior to registering for this session!
External Professional Development Sessions
Portfolios with Purpose
April 16, 1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom
Julie Sullivan, B.Admin, CTDP, FCIP (Senior Learning Technology Facilitator, Part-time Professor, Loyalist College)
Braiding Knowledge Rings: Knowledge Creation and Authentic Experiences
This webinar explores the power of portfolios in higher education—for both students and faculty. We will examine strategies for embedding portfolio development into course curriculum to support reflection, skills articulation, and career readiness. Next we will explore how faculty can curate a compelling teaching portfolio that showcases their philosophy, practice, and impact. Leave with practical frameworks, examples, and implementation tips to begin building or refining portfolios with purpose.
Note: for those taking the Braiding Knowledge Micro-credential, this session can be included as PD within one of the rings in the Braiding Learning framework, we suggest Knowledge Creation and Authentic Experiences, but if you feel it fits better in a different ring, please use your reflection to let us know why. This would count as an Indigenous workshop for that ring. You will have to provide confirmation of your attendance. Not in the micro-credential? Learn more by visiting: Faculty Micro-Credential Programs - CTL.
Interested? No registration required.
https://algonquincollege.zoom.us/j/93685489161?pwd=F2JAtdI5qAhszIhsE4w3zeEybzv0v6.1
Meeting ID: 936 8548 9161
Password: 897463
Our Journey of Reconciliation in Academia
April 16, 1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom
Leigh Simpson-Ahwanaquot (Seneca, Manager, Reconciliation and Indigenous Services); Megan Ewing (Seneca, Manager, Academic Program Development, Program Quality)
Braiding Knowledge Rings: Reflective Practice and Mindful Curriculum
Leigh and Megan will share stories about the work they did together on the integration of Reconciliation Learning Outcomes with a recent new program development.
Note: for those taking the Braiding Knowledge Micro-credential, this session can be included as PD within one of the rings in the Braiding Learning framework, we suggest Reflective Practice and Mindful Curriculum, but if you feel it fits better in a different ring, please use your reflection to let us know why. This would count as an Indigenous workshop for that ring. You will have to provide confirmation of your attendance. Not in the micro-credential? Learn more by visiting: Faculty Micro-Credential Programs - CTL.
Interested? No registration required.
https://algonquincollege.zoom.us/j/94885018053?pwd=auib6GRFBI3EeXbZaNziOdHis5VAWa.1
Meeting ID: 948 8501 8053
Password: 230180
📌 Looking for more personalized support? We’re here to help!
We encourage you to book a meeting with a member of our team through Microsoft Bookings.
📣 Stay tuned for the April issue of the CTL Compass next month!
Sent on behalf of Human Resources
Join an upcoming wellness session -
LINES THAT SOOTHE: A STRUCTURED DOODLING PROCESS THAT'S GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Bring your lunch and join us for a virtual art session that explores how neurographic art, also known as 'structured doodling', can be used for relaxation, mindfulness, focus, and emotional processing. This session will teach you a process that can be replicated on your own, with family members, students, or teams, as an emotional regulation strategy (a core aspect of emotional intelligence).
Using free‑flowing lines, rounded shapes, and mindful colouring, we will engage in a simple drawing technique designed to help regulate the nervous system and support emotional wellbeing.
You will receive guided instruction to start, followed by time to work independently while enjoying a shared creative space with colleagues. No artistic experience is needed—just a willingness to experiment and unwind.
As this is a virtual workshop, you will need to have your own materials on hand. At minimum, please have a pen and blank paper. For more defined lines and added colour, a black marker or gel pen, along with markers or pencil crayons, are recommended.
Monday, March 23rd, from 12 – 1 p.m.
Facilitator: Leigh-Ann Harper
Location: Virtual
Click here to register
Please be advised that the Galleria Tim Horton's will need to close at 12pm on Friday, March 13, 2026. We apologize for any incovenience. Please note that all other Tim Horton's locations will not be affected by this disruption and will maintain their regular hours.
Dine On Campus at Durham Ontario Tech
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
As I have shared, a key priority for me is ensuring we maintain open, consistent communication across the college so that our teams have the information they need to feel supported, informed, and connected to the work ahead. Creating meaningful ways to share updates, listen to your perspectives, and engage in dialogue is an important part of that commitment.
To support this, I invite you to take part in three upcoming opportunities to connect and stay informed. While each serves a different purpose, all are designed to support transparency, strengthen understanding of our priorities, and acknowledge our colleagues' contributions.
Town Halls
In my recent financial and operational update, I referenced upcoming Town Halls. These sessions are designed to help employees stay informed. Members of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) will share updates to foster transparency and answer questions you may have about our current and future state.
You're invited to submit a question in advance to be addressed during the session. There will also be time for a live Q&A, allowing you to engage directly during the Town Halls.
Monday, April 13
2 to 3 p.m.
CIR 102, Centre for Research and Innovation
Oshawa Campus
Friday, April 17
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Lecture Hall B101, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food
Whitby Campus
Register now for a Town Hall
Coffee Chats
These informal, small-group chats give employees a forum to share their ideas, ask questions, or simply engage in meaningful dialogue. Space is limited to allow for more personal conversation. If I don't often get the chance to hear from you, I especially encourage you to join.
Wednesday, April 29
2 to 3 p.m.
G213, Gordon Willey Building
Oshawa Campus
Thursday, April 30
11 a.m. to noon
Room 123, Admin Boardroom, Don Lovisa Building
Whitby Campus
Register now for a Coffee Chat
Lean into Green: DC Update and Employee Celebration
One of our annual signature events, where we come together as a DC community to be inspired and celebrate. On Wednesday, May 20, members of the leadership team will share highlights of the past year, and together we will recognize employees receiving their full-time service milestones, celebrate the winners of the Employee and Team Awards of Excellence, and enjoy a BBQ lunch. More details and a registration Evite will follow in the coming weeks.
I look forward to seeing you at these events and to focusing our continued, collective efforts on supporting one another and our students' success.
This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems, Facilities Management.
SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Hydrant Replacement
Facilities will be replacing a hydrant in the bus loop at the Oshawa campus. See attached photo. The bus loop will not be impacted, and the work area will be fenced off.
When: Saturday March 14, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Impact: Contractors will be working in the noted location in yellow, including excavation. Pedestrians are asked to use caution around the work area.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
This message is being sent on behalf of Thom MacDonald, Associate Vice President, Enrolment and International Education.
In December 2025, Durham College (DC) launched the Military-Connected College (MCC) initiative to better engage and assist learners whose lives have been shaped by military service. These individuals bring valuable leadership, experience, and perspective to our classrooms, enriching the DC community. The focus of the MCC initiative is to strengthen pathways from service to study to employment, while ensuring military-connected learners feel welcomed, supported, and recognized at DC.
Over the last three months, the initiative has evolved from concept into an active, coordinated effort across the college. The cross-functional steering committee is aligning enrolment, academic, and student support teams to reduce barriers for military-connected learners throughout their journey. This includes recruitment, admissions, credit recognition, campus belonging, and program progression.
Some key initiatives the committee is focused on are outlined below.
Upcoming workshops for all employees
To provide employees with a deeper understanding of the initiative and how this can influence their work, two workshop sessions are planned for April. A foundational Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) 101 session will be offered online, and an interactive CAF 102 session will be delivered in person to foster organic discussion and information sharing. These sessions are important for building a shared understanding across the college and better equip employees to support the unique experiences and transitions that many military-connected learners navigate.
Additional details on these sessions and how to register will be shared later this week.
Agreements, pathways and student support
Work is underway to establish several external agreements that strengthen access, referral pathways, and student support. The focus is on ensuring these partnerships move beyond statements of intent and translate into clear, consistent processes for credit recognition and timely learner support. These elements are essential for adult learners and those with prior military service.
Enhancing student experience and community
Initial steps are also underway to establish a student club for military-connected learners. The focus is on building a sustainable community with continuity and succession planning, ensuring it can grow beyond any single champion. Peer-to-peer connections grounded in shared experience are an important support for learners navigating service transitions, family responsibilities, and academic life.
We look forward to providing further updates as work progresses.
This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
A new addition to the Career Launch event series, Dress for Success is an initiative designed to support students as they prepare for job interviews, co‑op placements, and professional opportunities. Many students face challenges accessing appropriate business attire, and your generosity can help students step into interview season with confidence
As we begin a new year, it's the perfect time to refresh and clean out your closet. If you have gently used, like-new business attire, we would greatly appreciate your donations. All items must be freshly laundered before donating.
Donations can be dropped off at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations March 16-20 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
We are seeking:
Dress pants
Dress shirts
Blouses
Blazers
Skirts
Dresses
Belts
Shoes
Cardigans
At the end of the drive, any items not selected by students will be donated to IGNITE Durham, ensuring that all contributions continue to support our community. Together, we can support both career readiness and sustainable fashion.
Thank you in advance for your support!
From March 30 to April 30, 2026, Talize (Oshawa and Whitby locations) will be offering Durham College employees and students 30% off with a valid DC ID. Students also get 10% off every day, all year round.
This message is shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on March 21. Commemoration of the day is guided by the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (which was in turn ratified by the UN General Assembly in 1965). Racial discrimination is the practice of treating people differently or unjustly because of their race, ethnic origin, skin colour, language, or religion.
Why March 21? On that day in 1960, the Pan-African Congress launched an anti-pass campaign, protesting the 'pass laws' in apartheid South Africa. This was a staunchly non-violent protest – on the first day, over 4000 Black people marched unarmed to the police station in Sharpeville, without their passes. They planned to ask to be arrested in a courageous act of mass civil disobedience. The march ended in gunfire being opened against the peaceful protestors. 69 people were murdered and over 180 were injured.
On this day, we remember the people of Sharpeville, and the millions of other people who take action in the ongoing, global fight for civil rights, human rights, dignity, and equity. The day reminds us of the importance of ongoing education and action against racial discrimination—and indeed, all forms of discrimination. You can do this by familiarizing yourself with DC's Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and Community Resources like Victim Services of Durham Region's new Hate Reporting Resource.
Check out the Social Justice Collection at the Durham College/On Tech library as well as Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy to educate yourself about the history and ongoing manifestations of racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in Canada. Speak out against racism and discrimination when and where you encounter it and encourage anti-racism in all areas of your life, big and small. We keep each other safe!
🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Sale at the Campus Store! 🍀
The Campus Store is celebrating the colour green with pride this St. Patrick’s Day!
On March 17, 2026, enjoy 20% OFF all DC-branded green merchandise and show your support for the college while celebrating the day in style. From hoodies to tees and accessories, it’s the perfect time to wear your green and support the college.
Visit us at both Campus Store locations on March 17 and join the celebration.
Stock up on your favourite green DC gear and don’t miss this one-day offer! 🍀
This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems.
Please be aware that exterior maintenance is taking place around the Gordon Willey building. Work will be completed using a man lift, and impacted areas will be blocked off with caution tape and safety signage.
Location:
Exterior of the Gordon Willey building – A-wing, B-wing, C-wing, D-wing, and L-wing.
When:
March 15 to 30
As work progresses around the building, some entrances may be temporarily restricted. Access will be reopened once the work in each area is completed.
Please see the impact details by location below, and in the attached graphic.
Location A: Maintenance on L-wing windows.
Location B: Maintenance on C-wing windows.
Location C: The area west of the Marketplace seating entrance doors will be closed.
Location D: The B-wing Marketplace stairwell will be closed.
Location E: The B-wing entrance to the pit, located behind the security desk, will be closed.
Location F: The Presidents Stairwell entrance will be closed.
Location G: Maintenance on A-wing windows.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
We're excited to share that our second program event for current international students is happening on March 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in The PIT! This event is a wonderful opportunity for international students to connect, engage, and submit their applications free of charge! We're looking forward to another energetic and meaningful afternoon and are hopeful it will continue to strengthen students' sense of belonging within the Durham College community.
Durham College employees are warmly welcome to stop by, say hello, and join in the excitement if their schedules allow. For further information, please feel free to contact Mack Hunter at mack.hunter@durhamcollege.ca.
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
A new addition to the Career Launch event series, Dress for Success is an initiative designed to support students as they prepare for job interviews, co‑op placements, and professional opportunities. Many students face challenges accessing appropriate business attire, and your generosity can help students step into interview season with confidence
As we begin a new year, it's the perfect time to refresh and clean out your closet. If you have gently used, like-new business attire, we would greatly appreciate your donations. All items must be freshly laundered before donating.
We are seeking:
Dress pants
Dress shirts
Blouses
Blazers
Skirts
Dresses
Belts
Shoes
Cardigans
Donations can be dropped off at the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations, from March 9-13 and March 16-20 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
At the end of the drive, any items not selected by students will be donated to IGNITE Durham, ensuring that all contributions continue to support our community.
Together, we can support both career readiness and sustainable fashion.
Thank you in advance for your support!
The following message is being sent on behalf of Barbara MacCheyne, vice-president corporate services and chief financial officer.
To assist the finance department in properly recording revenue and expenditure transactions for this fiscal year and to ensure that we have an efficient closing of the books on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, please take note of the following deadlines and related procedures.
Procurement
Purchase orders
To ensure that expenses for goods that are physically received or services incurred by Tuesday, March 31st are captured as a fiscal 2025-26 expenditure, the following guidelines must be followed:
Any purchase requisitions required after Friday, February 27 for the 2025-26 fiscal year must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, VP of Corporate Services & CFO. The expected delivery date of the goods must be indicated on the requisition to ensure that the PO is properly recorded in the correct fiscal year. No purchase orders will be issued after Friday, March 6 for fiscal 2025-26. Proper accounting procedures require that items purchased during the current fiscal year but received after March 31, 2026 be charged to the next fiscal year. Thus, these purchases will be recorded as an expense when the goods and services are received in fiscal 2026-27.
FAST users need to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report via the FAST Webreq module. This process will assist staff in identifying their Outstanding Purchase Orders, invoices paid and remaining balance on those Orders. For instructions on how to run “My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions" report, please refer to ICE: My Outstanding Purchase Orders and Requisitions
Please execute your report on Friday, February 20, 2026. If any of your outstanding Purchase Orders can be closed, please email Doris Tapp at doris.tapp@durhamcollege.ca no later than the end of business day Friday, February 27, 2026 and reference the Purchase Order number and reason for closing (ex. paid already, invoice already sent to AP, vendor no longer supplying goods).
NOTE: If submitting an invoice to Accounts Payable that is final payment, please indicate this on the invoice so that the Purchase Order can be closed out.
NOTE: If your order will be received after March 31, 2026, please email Donny Gough at donny.gough@durhamcollege.ca and inquire about how to issue an advance Purchase Order for fiscal 2026-27. This is only permitted if budget exists for fiscal year 2026-27.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding purchase orders, please email Kevin Jones at kevin.jones@durhamcollege.ca.
Accounting
Accounts payable – vendor invoices
To ensure that all expenses are booked against the correct fiscal period, please forward all properly approved and correctly coded invoices to Accounts Payable for processing as soon as possible and no later than Thursday, April 2. Please indicate the purchase order number on the invoice where applicable to ensure purchase orders are closed out properly. If an invoice has not been received but there is sufficient support to accrue an expense to the current fiscal year, please provide the supporting documentation by Thursday, April 2.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding payment of invoices, please contact accountsPayable@durhamcollege.ca.
Corporate MasterCard statements
To ensure the proper recording of purchases made on your corporate MasterCard, we ask that you complete your MasterCard Reconciliation in the FAST PCARD module by the 23rd of each month. Copies of the reconciled statement, approved by the appropriate level, and attached with supporting receipts must be submitted by the following due dates:
February credit card reconciliations must be submitted to Accounts Payable by Monday, February 23, and
March credit card reconciliations must be submitted to Accounts Payable by Monday, March 23.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding corporate MasterCard expenditures, please email Gabriela Rantisi at gabriela.rantisi@durhamcollege.ca.
Expense reports
The expense report for reimbursement of expenses incurred to March 31, 2026 must be submitted to Accounts Payable –no later than Thursday, April 2 for processing. All expense reports are submitted to reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca. Please ensure that all supporting receipts and travel/business forms are provided and that the expense report form (located on ICE; Forms: Finance; Expense Report) is properly approved and coded. Claims for expenses incurred after March 31 must be reported on a separate expense form.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding expense report reimbursements, please email Gabriela Rantisi at: reimbursements@durhamcollege.ca.
Travel advances
Please ensure all travel advances for travel completed by March 31 are reconciled and submitted to Accounts Payable, attention Gabriela Rantisi no later than Wednesday, April 1.
Petty cash reimbursements
Departments that have a petty cash float must forward the receipts and reconciliation to Allan MacDonald in the Student Services Building no later than the end of business on Wednesday, April 1.
Note that all floats must be replenished to their full authorized value for year-end. Should you require a replenishment of a particular float or if you are closing out a float, email Allan MacDonald no later than Friday, March 6, 2026 to schedule a mutually agreed upon time to pick up/deliver.
Finally, float close-outs should be brought into the Student Services Building no later than 3:00pm on Wednesday, March 25 to ensure it is recorded in fiscal year 2025-26.
If you have any questions or require assistance, please contact Norah Warmuth at norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.
Invoicing external customers (Accounts Receivable)
The final date and time that we will be able to process invoices through Banner is Monday, March 30 at 3:00 p.m. To ensure that all revenue earned to March 31 is captured in the proper fiscal period in Banner, please forward the invoicing details for services rendered or fees to be charged to external customers to the Accounts Receivable department – AccountsReceivable-Trade@durhamcollege.ca by Wednesday, March 25. All invoicing details submitted after Wednesday, March 25 and before Wednesday, April 1 for services rendered to March 31 will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26 and invoiced in Banner in fiscal 2026-27.
If you have any questions regarding Accounts Receivable, please email Deborah Duff at Deborah.duff@durhamcollege.ca.
If you have any questions regarding any of the accounting deadlines above, please email Norah Warmuth, manager, Accounting at norah.warmuth@durhamcollege.ca.
Payroll
Payroll timesheets
For all part-time and contract employees, please ensure timesheets are approved and submitted to payroll by Tuesday, March 10 for both the PT/Contract faculty and support staff for March 20 pay date.
For all full-time support staff employees, please forward all outstanding overtime or other payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 11 for processing on the March 19 pay date.
For all full-time administrative employees and faculty, please forward all outstanding payroll adjustments by Wednesday, March 18 for processing on the March 27 pay date.
If there should be March timesheets or payroll adjustments that miss this cutoff, please forward to payroll by Wednesday, April 1 and these will be accrued in fiscal 2025-26.
If you have any questions concerning timesheets, please contact Jenny Razak, manager, payroll at jenny.razak@durhamcollege.ca.
Summary of key cut-off dates for 2024-25 year-end processing
Monday, February 23 – Employee February MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable
Friday, February 27 – New purchase requisitions must be approved by Barbara MacCheyne, CFO
Friday, February 27 – Open Purchase Order Report due to Purchasing
Tuesday, March 10 – Payroll adjustments for part-time / contract faculty and support staff due to Payroll
Wednesday, March 11 – Payroll adjustments for full-time support employees due to payroll
Wednesday, March 18 - Payroll adjustments for full-time administrative and faculty due to Payroll
Monday, March 23 – Employee March MasterCard statements due to Accounts Payable
Wednesday, March 25 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for invoicing in Banner
Tuesday, March 31 – Final day for goods or services to be completed/received for recording into 2025-26
Wednesday, April 1 – Travel advances for travel expenses in fiscal 2025-26 due to Accounts Payable for processing
Wednesday, April 1 – Outstanding payroll adjustments for period ended March 31 due to payroll for year-end accrual
Wednesday, April 1 – Accounts Receivable cut-off for customer invoicing year-end accrual
Wednesday, April 1 – Petty cash reconciliations due
Thursday, April 2 – Expense reports due to Accounts Payable
Thursday, April 2 – Vendor invoices due to Accounts Payable and any expenses that can be accrued for
Your continued efforts in ensuring a proper fiscal year closing and maintaining fiscal accountability are greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
Following last week's update outlining our 2025-26 enrolment outlook and the projected decrease in revenue, Durham College (DC) has made the very difficult decision to adjust our workforce to align with our financial and enrolment realities.
To help offset revenue loss and support the college's long-term sustainability, 21 support staff and administrative positions have been eliminated. In addition, 66 vacant positions have been eliminated or will remain unfilled. As with all decisions regarding our employees, these were not made lightly and reflect the careful, responsible planning required to ensure the college can continue to deliver on its core priorities.
Administrative employees affected by the workforce reductions have been informed, and the notification process for impacted support staff is now underway. We recognize the uncertainty and concern these decisions may create and appreciate your care and professionalism in supporting one another.
The Employment Stability Committee process, as outlined in the Support Staff Collective Agreement and undertaken in collaboration with union leadership, is now underway to carefully review all available options. Where possible, affected employees will be offered reassignment based on job requirements and skill alignment.
This confidential process may take several weeks to complete, and we are committed to approaching it with care, fairness, and respect for those involved. Human Resources will provide a campus-wide update once the process is complete.
It is important to note that while the new provincial funding model is expected to provide much-needed financial relief, it is still early in the process, and we do not yet have clarity on its full impact on DC. What we do know is that our current enrolment realities require immediate attention. This means continuing to prioritize enrolment growth and retention across the college. Attracting and supporting students is a shared responsibility and requires coordinated effort from all teams to ensure we are positioned for stability and long-term success.
We fully recognize the significant impact these changes have on our people and our operations. We remain committed to supporting employees and sustaining the strong workplace culture that defines DC. Our goal has always been to minimize impacts wherever possible, and we are hopeful that, with funding reforms underway, we can move toward greater stability in the near future.
To ensure open dialogue, Town Hall meetings have been scheduled for Monday, April 13, at 2 p.m. in Oshawa and Friday, April 17, at 1:30 p.m. in Whitby. An Evite will be sent out in the coming days.
Please also remember that, in addition to reaching out to your supervisor for guidance and support, confidential counselling is available through our Employee and Family Assistance Program at homeweb.ca.
Thank you for your continued professionalism, dedication, and commitment to our students and to one another. This is a challenging time for our campus community. By staying focused on our shared purpose and supporting each other through this transition, we will position DC to emerge stronger and more sustainable for the future.
This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
All 2026 graduating students are invited to attend Countdown to Grad. This is where they can register to graduate and learn all they need to know about resources available to them after Convocation.
Event Details:
Wednesday, March 11, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.
Whitby campus, Don Lovisa Building, atrium
Thursday, March 12, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.
Oshawa campus, Student Services Building (SSB), atrium
Faculty with classes during this time, we hope you will encourage your students to attend if scheduling permits. Attending the event should take approximately 30 minutes and will set students up for success as they prepare for Convocation.
Students can view full event details and register on the Convocation microsite.
Registration has been extended to March 9.
We're excited to share that the Campus Store website has been completely rebuilt with YOU in mind.
Shopping is now:
✔ Easier to navigate
✔ More engaging to browse
✔ Faster to check out with guest checkout available (no account required!)
Whether you're picking up DC gear, gifts, supplies, or browsing between meetings, the new experience is smoother and more convenient than ever.
Visit the website https://durham.bookware3000.ca/ today and check out all our new arrivals!
Thank you for continuing to support your Campus Store.
This message is being shared on behalf of Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic & Students.
I am pleased to share Durham College's (DC) new Academic Plan which sets our direction for the next four years. Aligned with the college's Strategic Vision, it reflects our shared purpose of transforming lives, building careers, and enriching communities.
The Academic Plan's three pillars outline how we will advance teaching and learning, research and community engagement, and student success. It speaks to the full scope of our work: the quality of our programs, the services and supports that help students succeed, and the opportunities and partnerships that expand our impact.
This work is made possible by every employee. Whether you engage directly with students or support the systems that enable their success, your contributions matter. Through closer collaboration between the Academic and Student Affairs portfolios, we are creating a more coordinated and inclusive environment that helps students achieve their goals.
I encourage you to read the Academic Plan and reflect on how its priorities connect to your role. Together, we will ensure exceptional learning experiences for our students, rewarding opportunities with engaged partners, and a more prosperous future for our graduates and the communities we serve.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI).
March 8 is International Women's Day (IWD)! Join us in celebrating the many women, girls, and two-spirit people who have contributed to Canada's culture, economy, and political and intellectual landscape. IWD offers opportunities to both celebrate the innumerable achievements gained by women and girls, while acknowledging the ongoing lived realities of the systemic oppression of women, girls, two-spirit folks, and non-cis people broadly.
According to the United Nations, women globally currently have only 64% of the legal rights that men hold worldwide. It was less than 100 years ago, in 1929, that Canada's highest court of appeal decided to include women in the legal definition of “persons". In 1985, United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women wanted to know what kind of concrete measures were taken in Canada for the elimination of discrimination against Indigenous women since they represented then “one of the most disenfranchised groups of Canada's population, were still suffering from official discrimination". The ongoing violence against Indigenous girls, women, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Canada, as detailed in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, is unconscionable and requires ongoing solidarity and collective action.
There are various ways you can further inform yourself about the history of women's struggles and celebrate the accomplishments of women and girls in Canada and beyond. One such method is in raising your awareness of resources available to women on campus, including those available on the OEDI website. Learn more about our rights and responsibilities to create a campus community free of discrimination and harassment, as outlined in the Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, and about the Ontario Human Rights Code. Victim Services of Durham Region has also launched a Durham Region Hate Reporting Resource for people who have experienced hate or discrimination in the region.
You can also celebrate IWD by joining the Region of Durham for an International Women's Day Event on Tuesday, March 3 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax (registration required). You can explore the struggle and power of Canadian women in the Women in Canadian History Timeline curated by the government of Canada and learn more about the United Nations' theme for IWD 2026, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls."
Women continue to experience gender inequity and oppression in all areas of society, including education, and this can impact mental health. For resources to access help or to support others, please visit the Durham College Wellness Directory. Supports are also available through Durham Mental Health Services, Ontario Shores and The Women's Multicultural Resource & Counselling Centre of Durham.
This message is sent on behalf of IT Information Security (InfoSec).
At Durham College (DC), we are committed to providing a safe and open learning environment for our students and employees. Protecting that environment includes safeguarding the college's digital systems and information.
The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security has noted an increase in cyber threats targeting public institutions. Staying alert and following good security practices helps strengthen DC's digital environment.
By remaining vigilant, employees help safeguard the information and systems that support our students, colleagues, and the college.
How you can help
Cyber threat actors often use social engineering to gain access to systems. We ask that you follow these three simple but vital practices:
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) vigilance: MFA is one of our strongest security protections. If you receive an MFA prompt or notification on your phone that you did not personally initiate, do not approve it. An unexpected request may mean someone has already obtained your password and is trying to access your account.
Think Before You Click: Be cautious with emails you aren't expecting, even if they appear to come from a known source. If a message includes an attachment or link that seems unusual or creates a sense of urgency, verify it through another method, such as a phone call or a new message, before clicking.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice anything unusual, such as unexpected login attempts or suspicious emails, please contact the IT Service Desk immediately. Early reporting helps protect the college.
Our collective security
Cybersecurity is not only about technology. It also depends on the habits we practise every day. By taking these simple steps, employees help ensure our technology continues to support teaching and learning without disruption.
Thank you for helping keep our campus community secure.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
Earlier this week, I shared the unfortunate news that we have had to make workforce reductions at Durham College (DC) due to our financial constraints, and to realign our work with our enrolment realities. So today, on National Employee Appreciation Day, it feels particularly important to pause and recognize each of you for the valuable role you play in making DC the special organization it is.
The culture we have created here is what truly sets us apart. I consistently hear stories that reflect your integrity, expertise, and genuine care for our students and employees. Our strong reputation is evidence of your dedication and your belief in our ability to transform lives, build careers, and enrich communities.
I have been at DC for more than a decade now, and I still remember the feeling I had when I first came to campus. Employees and students willingly went out of their way to be considerate and inclusive, whether it was holding a door open, saying hello in the hallways, or asking if you needed help. Those simple gestures were kind, warm, and welcoming.
Over the years, I have come to see that those everyday moments add up to an environment where people feel seen, supported, and that they truly matter. Here, we come together genuinely and thoughtfully, valuing collaboration and community to nurture a culture grounded in respect.
Thank you for all that you do, every day, to ensure our college remains a place where we all belong and can thrive.
This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.
SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.
What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction
Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.
When: Saturday March 7, 2026 to Monday March 9, 2026
Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible. Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.
The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):
Don Lovisa Main Entrance
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building.
Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
Join us on March 25 for the next DC Talks event, featuring a panel of four Durham College (DC) graduates who are shaping the future of care across diverse and vital areas of the health sector.
This hybrid event will explore how innovation, lived experience, and community-driven approaches are strengthening healthcare systems locally and globally.
Panellists: Beth Brannon (Registered Nursing), Matthew Canning (Practical Nursing), Tamara Dus (Registered Nursing), J.D. Heffern (Advanced Paramedic)
Read their full bios on the Global Class page.
Event details:
Wednesday, March 25, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Rotary Global Classroom, Centre for Collaborative Education (view interactive map), Oshawa campus
Tune in online through the Rotary Global Classroom page or attend in person at the Global Classroom in the Centre for Collaborative Education at DC's Oshawa campus. Visit Eventbrite for more details and to register.
The DC Talks is hosted by the Durham College Alumni Association and aims to inspire current students, facilitate networking among alumni, and highlight success stories.
This message is being shared on behalf of Bill Clancey, Manager, Utilities and Building Systems, Facilities Management.
SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: HVAC Repair – A-Wing
This weekend, Facilities will be completing repairs on the main A-Wing air handler unit.
When: Friday March 6, 2 p.m. – Sunday, March 8, 6 p.m.
Impact: No heating in the following areas until repairs are complete:
President's Office
Dental Lab, Second Floor
A-Wing, First Floor
This message is shared on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Durham College (DC) celebrates International Women's Day on Sunday, March 8, joining a global movement that began in 1911 to advance women's rights and gender equality. This day is both a celebration and a call to action – a moment to recognize the remarkable achievements of women while drawing continued attention to issues such as discrimination, barriers to education, pay inequities, underrepresentation in leadership, and unequal access to opportunities.
The United Nations' theme for this year's Day of Recognition – Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls. – challenges us to not only affirm our commitment to equality, but to actively pursue it. When women and girls are excluded the impact is far-reaching. As education activist Malala Yousafzai reminds us: “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back."
From my own experiences pursuing education and research in the sciences, I witnessed firsthand that the strongest, most impactful outcomes came from diverse teams – individuals of different gender identities and cultural backgrounds bringing their own unique perspectives to solve complex problems together.
As an educational institution, DC is uniquely positioned to drive change by ensuring women have access, support, and opportunities to thrive. For example, through our programs and pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and skilled trades, we are opening doors and expanding possibilities. Initiatives like our Young Women in Science, Technology and Trades day introduce elementary-aged students to career pathways early, helping them see themselves in fields where women have been historically underrepresented.
Our college community is strengthened every day by the women who study, teach, mentor, and lead here. Their contributions shape our culture, expand our thinking, and inspire those around them. Today, we celebrate their achievements, their resilience, and the countless ways they elevate our campus. We honour the trailblazers who paved the way, the innovators who are redefining what's possible, and the students who are boldly stepping into their futures. DC is better because of them — and because of the communities of support that champion their success.
On International Women's Day, let's reaffirm our commitment to removing barriers, broadening access and fostering an environment where every woman belongs.
This message is being shared on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.
I am pleased to share Kayleen Mertz joined Durham College (DC) on February 17, as the Manager, Emergency Management, in the Office of Campus Safety.
Kayleen brings an extensive background in emergency management, including as the Emergency Management Duty Officer for the Treasury Board Secretariat and most recently as the Senior Safety Regulatory Officer for Metrolinx. Her expertise and experience will support and strengthen our efforts to enhance campus readiness and resilience, advance our emergency preparedness initiatives, and support our community.
Kayleen is a proud graduate of DC's Police Foundations program, and holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology, Criminology and Justice from Ontario Tech University. She also has completed courses in fire safety, fire sprinkler design, and mental health.
We are thrilled to welcome Kayleen back to DC where she has a strong connection to our campus and a deep appreciation for the work we do. Please join me in welcoming Kayleen to Durham College.
This message is being sent on behalf of the Office of Campus Safety.
Durham College will conduct a planned test of the Alertus Mass Notification System on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. The test will last less than five minutes and will ensure the proper functioning of Durham College's Emergency Mass Notification Tool (EMNT), which is used during active incidents that could impact the safety of individuals on campus.
During the brief test, employees may experience the following:
Yellow Alertus beacons and marquees flashing and beeping, with an on-screen message
Verbal announcements through campus speakers
Desktop takeover alerts on computers with Alertus installed
Push notifications on mobile devices for those registered with the AlertAware app
No action is required. This is strictly a hardware and software test. No evacuation, lockdown, or other response is needed.
Being prepared starts with staying informed. If you have not already downloaded and registered the AlertAware mobile app, please do so. The app delivers real-time emergency notifications directly to your mobile device.
Employees are also encouraged to review DC's emergency procedures. Taking these steps helps protect you and everyone on campus.
This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Evan Arsenault, Event Coordinator, Communications and Marketing.
Durham College's Spring Open House is taking place Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses. We are inviting employees to take part in helping bring the DC experience to life for prospective students and their families.
Spring Open House is one of our most important recruitment events of the year. It offers guests the opportunity to explore our campuses, connect with program teams, learn about student services and picture themselves beginning their academic journey at DC. The energy and engagement they encounter often shapes their decision.
Why your participation matters:
Help guests feel welcome and informed as they explore the 145+ DC programs.
Share your insights into campus life, facilities, support services, and the opportunities that make DC a compelling choice.
Promote program highlights or experiences that inspire prospective students.
Participant roles include:
Welcoming guests and answering questions
Tour guide support
General event assistance
Apply Now room support
If you are not already representing your Faculty or department, we would greatly appreciate your participation at the event. You play an important role in helping future students feel confident, informed and excited about joining our DC community.
All participants are required to register by Wednesday, March 11.
Thank you for contributing your time. We look forward to showcasing Durham College together.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
On February 12, I shared an update about the government's announcement of a new, long-term funding model that will bring an additional $6.4 billion over four years to publicly assisted colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, starting in 2026-27. This long-awaited news recognizes our post-secondary system's critical role in delivering high-quality education and building Ontario's future workforce.
Colleges met with the ministry last week to receive a technical briefing outlining the key changes to the new funding model. It was communicated that final binding allocations will be approved and executed for institutions to review and implement in Summer 2026, as part of the Strategic Mandate Agreement process. We are encouraged that this new funding will help ease some of the financial pressure we are facing. At the same time, it is important to balance optimism with a clear understanding of our broader fiscal realities.
Our Winter Intake data confirms a larger-than-expected decline in international student enrolment. While our domestic student enrolment was strong at 9,971 students – 106.8 per cent of budget target, international enrolment of 1,640 students reached only 79.3 per cent of the budget target, falling short of expectations. As a result, post-secondary tuition revenue for the Winter 2026 semester is lower than anticipated.
While this new funding will provide some much-needed relief, given our enrolment realities and the government's expectation that the sector continue to find efficiencies despite this new funding, we must remain focused on our core vision and be intentional about the work we do. As part of this responsible planning process, we have begun a review that is expected to result in some workforce reductions.
The post-secondary sector has faced an unprecedented funding crisis, creating an exceptionally challenging and stressful time for colleges, and we recognize the impact this is having within our own community. Ensuring our financial sustainability requires continued due diligence in prioritization, tough decisions, and care in how we move forward together.
My commitment remains to be transparent and to ensure employees have the support they need through this period. If you require assistance, please connect with your manager or our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) at homeweb.ca.
We will provide updates once we have more details to share on how the new funding will impact Durham College in the short and long term, and as decisions are made. Thank you for your continued professionalism, resilience, and dedication to our students and to one another during this challenging time.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
The International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE) team will be hosting a mid‑semester check‑in session for international students on Wednesday, March 4, from 1:00–3:00 PM at The Pit (Oshawa Campus).
During this informal drop‑in, students can connect individually with an ISSE team member to discuss topics such as immigration‑related questions, engagement opportunities, and available supports and resources. No appointment is required.
If you work with international students in your academic faculty or service area, please help share this opportunity and encourage students to attend. Your support helps ensure they access timely guidance and resources.
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The Social Impact Hub received an Institutional Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada designed to assist Canadian post-secondary institutions to develop and maintain a solid base of research and research-related activities in the social sciences and humanities.
With these funds, the Social Impact Hub is launching the first Explore Grant competition, offering micro-grants to support full-time faculty members embarking on projects that are one semester in length. Each project is eligible to receive funding for a student Research Assistant to provide an experiential learning opportunity for a Durham College student as well as minimal funds for additional resources required to complete the project. The faculty lead will receive eight hours SWF time to complete the project.
Eligibility:
To be eligible, project activities must meet the following:
The research activity must be primarily in a social science or humanities discipline (aligned with the SSHRC legislated mandate) and;
The intended outcome of the research must primarily be to add to our understanding and knowledge of individuals, groups, and societies - what we think, how we live, and how we interact with each other and the world around us.
Funded activities must lead to/support a plan for external application for research funds, including the College and Community Social Innovation Fund.
Applicants must be full-time DC faculty members and must receive approval from their Executive Dean/Associate Dean prior to submitting an application.
Priority will be given to projects with a focus on Indigenous Research as defined by SSHRC, with the aim of funding at least one per round.
Projects are expected to be completed within one semester.
Funding parameters:
Explore Grants will fund direct costs of applied research projects:
Teaching replacement costs, if required
Part-time student research assistant hours (35-55 hrs; one semester; one student)
Other eligible costs may include:
travel required to collect data or collaborate with community partner,
equipment, software or supplies,
honoraria for research participants and/or persons with lived experience.
Timeline:
Deadline March 6 by 5 p.m.
Review process March
Results April 13
Project start date Fall 2026 (REB applications may be submitted in spring) or Winter 2027
Application Process:
Deadline: Friday March 6 (must be received by 5 p.m.)
Submit applications by email to: socialimpacthub@durhamcollege.ca
The application form can be found here.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
I'm sorry to share with you that June “Zahra" Castanha, a fitness instructor in the Department of Athletics and Recreation, has passed away.
Zahra joined Durham College (DC) in 2011, teaching fitness classes to students and employees. Her classes encouraged participants to engage creatively while learning about cultural identity, collaboration and self-expression. She was admired for her passion, generosity, and commitment to uplifting others through the arts.
A tribute to Zahra is available on the Simple Alternative website. To honour Zahra's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Zahra's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.
Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).
This message is being shared on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Chief Returning Officer, Durham College (DC) Board of Governors. Please direct inquires to Melissa Pringle.
It's time to choose the administrative staff member who will join the DC Board of Governors and help guide the college over the next three years.
Here's what you need to know about the coming election and the position:
Who we are looking for
One (1) administrative staff member position on the DC Board of Governors.
*The current administrative staff governor, Kelly Doyle, will have completed her second three-year term on August 31 and therefore is not eligible for re-election.
Length of appointment Three-year term, starting September 1, 2026
Qualifications to participate
All permanent administrative employees are encouraged to put their names forward.
While the final selection will be made by election, the Board's Nominating Committee has identified several priority areas from the Board's Skills Matrix where additional expertise would be particularly valuable. These include:
Accounting and finance (CPA designation preferred)
Agriculture
Artificial intelligence and information technology
Defense and security
Energy
Community services
Human resources and labour relations
Time commitment Approximately 15 to 20 hours per month
Compensation This is a volunteer position
What's involved?
The administrative staff member on the DC Board of Governors will:
Represent the college for a three-year term, bringing the administrative staff perspective to decision-making
Help shape the future and strategic direction of the college.
Attend board and committee meetings.
Participate in professional development opportunities and special events.
Nomination period Friday, February 20 to March 12, at 1 p.m.
Campaign period Wednesday, March 18 to April 1
Voting period Monday, March 30 to April 1
For more information and to get the nomination form, visit this website.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to ctl@durhamcollege.ca.
Winter Academic PD Day
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)
Website: durhamcollege.ca/ctl/pd/academic-pd/winter-2026
Location & Date Change Notes
While we are aware Academic PD Day has historically been held in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) during the fall reading week and the week before the start of the spring semester, we have moved the event to the Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR) on Thursday, March 5, 2026 for the winter.
Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!
Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall.
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW
8:30 a.m.
Registration
9 a.m.
Welcome & Opening Address
with Amanda Maknyik
9:05 a.m.
Land Acknowledgement
with Dr. Jean Choi
9:10 a.m.
Announcing the 2026-30 Academic Plan
with Dr. Jean Choi
9:30 a.m.
Aligning the Academic Plan with the 2026-30 Teaching & Learning Plan
with Amanda Maknyik
9:40 a.m.
Break
9:50 a.m. Keynote /
Building Inclusive Classroom Communities
with Taraneh Vejdani
KEYNOTE SPOTLIGHT
Photo of Taraneh Vejdani.
The CTL is excited to welcome Taraneh Vejdani to present the opening keynote during Winter Academic PD Day!
Building Inclusive Classroom Communities
This two-hour workshop is focused on building inclusive classrooms, while encouraging faculty to reflect on their personal bias, language use, and unintentional microaggressions. Through interactive activities, group dialogue, and personal storytelling, faculty will deepen their understanding of how identities and lived experiences shape our perspectives as leaders in the classroom. We will learn techniques for responding to microaggressions, navigating difficult conversations, using inclusive language, and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. The session emphasizes strategies for building an inclusive classroom, while encouraging self‑reflection to foster a collaborative sense of responsibility for creating braver learning environments. Taraneh Vejdani’s (she/her) approach to these topics is from the perspectives of love and learning and will leave faculty with some actionable items they can take and use in their classrooms to build safer spaces for learning. After the workshop, participants will complete a brief reflection evaluating their comfort and growth in applying equity‑focused practices and leave with practical next steps.
About Taraneh Vejdani
Taraneh (she/her) has been an educator for youth and adults, particularly folks from marginalized communities, for the past decade. Her B.A. in International Development Studies, combined with her lived experience as a 1.5-generation immigrant, allows her to reflect on social justice and equity issues from both local and global perspectives. Her love for arts and media motivates her to create engaging and participatory educational spaces that promote self-reflection, collective learning, and a creative mindset to create a sense of belonging.”
SAVE YOUR SPOT
Hurry! Registration closes March 4, 2026.
[ REGISTER NOW ]
Learn more
Visit the CTL website for additional details.
This message is sent on behalf of Anna De Grauwe, Director, Experiential Learning. If you have questions, please email anna.degrauwe@durhamcollege.ca .
The Experiential Learning team in the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) supports hands-on and reflective work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities. Applications are now open for the Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) iHub grant funding for WIL experiences between May 1 and December 31, 2026.
The CEWIL iHub provides grant-based funding to WIL opportunities like applied research/industry projects, entrepreneurship, field placements and service-learning. By doing so, they support the advancement and innovation of WIL and ensure projects are delivered with appropriate quality and learning standards for students. Funding will be awarded to eligible applicants who meet the evaluation criteria. To learn more about the CEWIL iHub funding and application instructions, visit the iHub website here and the Application Guide here.
As iHUB is designed to support innovation in work-integrated learning, particularly innovation that leverages technology and expanding access to WIL, all project proposals must address one or more of the following key outcomes:
Expand access to WIL opportunities, particularly for under-represented and underresourced students;
Remove barriers for students to participate in work-integrated learning;
Leverage technology to enhance programming or extend access, including the use of technology to support virtual or remote WIL experiences;
Innovate work-integrated learning through new partnerships and/or new models for curricular WIL.
Special consideration may be given if the project addresses one or more of the federal government's priorities.
The deadline of Wednesday, March 18, applies to projects that would operate from May to December 2026. A call for projects that would only operate from September to December 2026 is expected in May. Staff who intend to submit a proposal are asked to obtain approval from their executive/associate dean and notify the EL team at experientiallearning@durhamcollege.ca by Friday, March 6. We look forward to supporting all eligible applicants.
This is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Durham College varsity playoffs continue this weekend with both our women’s volleyball and men’s basketball teams competing on the provincial stage.
Women’s Volleyball – Final Four
The Lords are one of four teams remaining at the 2026 OCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship, hosted at Seneca Polytechnic’s King City campus.
Durham (14-2 regular season, second place in the East Division) will face the St. Clair Saints in the semifinal on Friday, February 27 at 7 p.m.
The team will then compete for a medal on Saturday, February 28:
Bronze Medal Match – 3:30 p.m.
Gold Medal Match – 6 p.m.
Saturday’s opponent will be either the Seneca Sting or Humber Hawks, depending on semifinal results.
Seneca will be live streaming this game on the OCAA's YouTube channel.
Men’s Basketball – Quarter-Final
The Lords men’s basketball team heads to Humber Polytechnic for the 2026 OCAA Men’s Basketball Championship quarter-finals.
Durham (14-4 regular season, three-way tie for first place in the East Division) will take on the Humber Hawks on Saturday, February 28 at 3 p.m. in a highly anticipated rematch of both the 2025 provincial championship and national championship games.
The winner advances to the OCAA Final Four.
Humber will be live streaming this game via the Humber Sports Network on YouTube.
Best of luck to both teams as they represent Durham College on the provincial stage. Go Lords!
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
The Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) announced the award winners for the 2025-26 volleyball and basketball seasons this week.
We would like to recognize various award winners from our four varsity volleyball and basketball teams.
Men's Basketball
Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - CCAA All-Canadian
Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - OCAA East Division Player of the Year
Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - OCAA East Division Defensive Player of the Year
Jasean Elliott (Child & Youth Care) - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star
Durham Lords - OCAA East Division Best Defensive Team
Women's Basketball
Sarah-Jane Laplante (Police Foundations) - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star
Men's Volleyball
Jalen Arias (Fitness and Health Promotion) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star
Women's Volleyball
Jessie Buck (Architectural Technology) - OCAA East Division First Team All-Star
Elizabeth McFarland (Accounting - Business) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star
Brooke Young (Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing) - OCAA East Division Second Team All-Star
This message is being sent on behalf of Amanda Blenkhorn, Director, Ancillary Services.
The following Food Service locations will be open during Reading Week from Monday, March 2 to Friday, March 6, 2026:
Oshawa Campus
Tim Horton's B Wing
Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Marketplace Cafe (San Marzano Pizza and Grab and Go Offerings Only)
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Friday: CLOSED
Tim Horton's SSB
Monday - Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Thursday - Friday: CLOSED
South Village Dining Hall*
Monday - Friday: 7:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Whitby Campus
Tim Horton's Whitby
Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
*À la carte menu options are available for walk-up purchases at the South Village Dining Hall.
STAFF FIRST LOOK: NEW ARRIVALS WEEK
Be the first to wear what’s new.
Next week (March 2nd to 6th) only, staff get:
✨ EXTRA 10% OFF all NEW apparel
🗓 Ends Friday, March 6
📍 Come visit the campus store for a special surprise!
Staff exclusive. Limited sizes. First come, first styled.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
The 2026 Durham Lords Varsity Auction is officially live and it’s your chance to support student-athletes while bidding on an incredible lineup of experiences, merchandise and exclusive prizes.
For decades, Durham College varsity athletics has built a tradition of excellence. Across our 13 varsity programs, the Lords have captured hundreds of provincial medals, as well as dozens of national championships and All-Canadian honours. That success is powered by the dedication of our student-athletes and by the support of our community.
Funds raised through the auction will directly benefit Durham Lords student-athletes by supporting:
Awards that reduce financial barriers
Unique training and development opportunities
Specialized equipment
Health and wellness resources
Proceeds will go toward varsity team fundraising accounts or the Ken Babcock Athletic Scholarship Fund, helping ensure our athletes have the resources they need to succeed in competition, in the classroom and beyond.
This year’s auction features something for everyone, including:
Exclusive “Train with the Lords” team experiences
Strength and conditioning sessions and sport-specific training
One-of-a-kind facility rentals at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre, Campus Fieldhouse, Campus Ice Centre and Esports Arena
Unique campus experiences
Fitness memberships, training packages and wellness sessions
Premium sports tickets and local experience packages
Gift cards to popular restaurants and retailers
Durham Lords Adidas apparel, retro gear and limited merchandise
Whether you're looking to represent the green and gold, enjoy a memorable experience with friends, or secure a great deal on premium items, every bid makes a difference.
Please visit MailScanner has detected a possible fraud attempt from "www.32auctions.com" claiming to be durhamlords.com/auction. The auction closes March 31 at 7:00 p.m. Place your bids, support Durham Lords athletics, and help empower our student-athletes to maximize their potential.
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 March 1, 2026.
McFarland, an Accounting - Business Transfer student, was named a championship all-star at the 2026 OCAA Women's Volleyball Championship over the weekend. McFarland earned player of the match honours in Friday's semifinal against St. Clair, recording eight kills, three solo blocks and a service ace for 12.0 points to go along with 10 digs. In Saturday's bronze medal match against Seneca, she registered another eight kills, one block and one service ace for 10.0 points, as well as four digs.
Smith, a Fitness & Health Promotion student, recorded a double-double in Saturday's quarter-final against Humber, leading the team with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Leading the team in a third category, Smith accounted for two of Durham's six steals on the day. This was his highest scoring performance of the season.
The 2025-26 women's volleyball and men's basketball seasons have come to an end.
The Campus Health Centre has announced that students can now book EIF appointments online.
Students can conveniently reserve their spot through our website here: Entry Immunizations Form (EIF) - Durham College. Students will also find all the guidance they need on our webpage to ensure their appointment goes smoothly and their form is completed correctly.
To make things even more convenient, the clinic has expanded our hours to include early morning EIF appointments (by appointment only), allowing students to complete their immunizations before morning classes. We have also added additional appointment availability so that students in your programs can fulfill their EIF requirements ahead of placement.
Please share this update with anyone working in programs requiring EIF services and encourage students to book their appointments well in advance of their Synergy due dates. Remember: completing an EIF typically requires 4–6 visits, depending on which immunizations are needed.
This message is being shared on behalf of Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Come out and try wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and sledge hockey — all free and open to everyone. No experience needed, just bring your energy and curiosity!
This drop-in is a great chance to learn new skills, meet new people, and experience sport in an inclusive environment. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just trying something new, there’s a spot for you.
Wheelchair Basketball
Monday, March 9, 2026
CRWC Gym 3
3:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Sitting Volleyball
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
CRWC Gym 3
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Sledge Hockey
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 & Thursday March 12, 2026
Campus Ice Centre Pad 1
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
The following update is shared on behalf of Barb MacCheyne, Vice President, Corporate Services and CFO, and Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.
Durham College has updated sections 4 and 5 of the Purchasing Card Policy to strengthen governance and clarify requirements related to technology procurement.
A new section (4.2) has been added to the policy statements, specifying that that all technology-related purchases must comply with college technology governance requirements, including adherence to approved standards and any required IT review.
Additional procedural updates (5.6.1 to 5.6.4) clarify expectations for cardholders, including:
All technology-related purchases, regardless of funding source, must follow IT Services procurement and integration guidelines.
Purchasing cards must not be used for technology purchases that:
Exceed the IT review threshold (currently $500 per transaction);
Require new or changed integration with Banner or other enterprise systems;
Introduce new cloud or hosted services, off-site data storage, or access to confidential or student data. Where a technology tool collects, uses, retains or processes personal information, a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) is required.
Cardholders must confirm that technology items are either on the IT-approved standards list or have explicit IT Services approval, and must retain evidence of approval for audit purposes.
Technology-related purchases above defined thresholds must be reviewed and approved by IT Services before any commitment of funds.
These updates are intended to ensure alignment with institutional technology standards, reduce risk, and support sustainable, well-integrated technology investments across the college.
The updated Purchasing Card Policy is available on ICE.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
On Monday, the International Recruitment (IR) team successfully hosted the Uzbekistan Student Workshop 2026. This new initiative represents a strategic collaboration with a single overseas agent to deliver an exclusive DC admissions event within one country. More than 100 prospective students attended the workshop, where they received valuable information and gained an early glimpse into what studying at Durham College could look like.
DC UZ Student Workshop 2026 (2).jpeg
DC UZ Student Workshop 2026 (6).jpeg
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca.
The CTL Compass, a digital newsletter from the Centre for Teaching & Learning, is here!
Faculty member supporting two students in a classroom.
CTL Compass
Winter Semester ❄️ February 2026
Winter Academic PD Day.
Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!
Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall.
Additionally, the call for proposals is now open. Learn more in the CTL Compass!
Event details
Winter Academic PD Day ❄️
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)
In this issue
HIGHLIGHTS
Winter Academic PD Day ❄️ March 5, 2026
Mid-term Grades Submission / March 3 at 12 p.m.
Faculty Partial Secondments
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, SUPPORT & RESOURCES
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) / Call for Proposals
Upcoming Fall College Teaching Certificate (CTC) Courses / F2026
What’s New in DC Connect & Coursedog
Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities
FYIS
Upcoming Important Dates / Winter 2026
[ START READING ]
📣 Stay tuned for the March issue of the CTL Compass Express next month!
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
As we continue planning for the upcoming fiscal cycle, I want to provide an update on our financial outlook and the steps we are taking to ensure Durham College's (DC) long-term stability.
At the fall Town Halls, we shared that we are forecasting a small surplus for 2025-26. This is largely due to unexpected short-term government funding, strong domestic enrolment, changes to vacation liability expenses, additional revenue generation, and some decreased expenses. Thank you for your efforts and contributions, which have made a notable difference. This surplus will directly support our financial sustainability by moving our reserve from negative to positive. We also noted at our Town Halls that our financial outcome would remain fluid – and it has.
Our financial outlook over the next few years, however, continues to be challenged by two key factors. First, despite system-wide advocacy, the current provincial funding model has not kept pace with operational realities. Although the government is reviewing the model, no immediate changes are expected, and funding pressures are expected to persist. Second, international enrolment continues to decline and is now anticipated to be significantly lower than originally projected for 2026-27, resulting in a larger forecasted deficit. Based on these factors, we must continue to operate under – and plan for – a multi-year period of financial constraint.
With this in mind, effective immediately, the following measures are being introduced:
Hiring decisions: While all roles at the college are important, we will pause hiring wherever possible. Only positions deemed critical to maintaining operations and supporting core services will be considered by the Executive Leadership Team for approval.
Discretionary spending: Budget holders are asked to review planned expenditures carefully and pause non-essential spending until further notice.
These actions are part of a broader strategy to manage our resources responsibly while we refine longer-term plans to address the projected multi-year deficits. Over the coming months, we will continue to review budgets across the college and identify opportunities to realign our work with our financial realities.
We will keep you informed as this work progresses. Your professionalism, care, and commitment to our students and the DC community remain invaluable as we navigate this challenging environment together.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Thank you to everyone who participated in yet another successful Active Living Challenge. From January 5 to 30, you moved your body by walking, shovelling snow, working out, and so much more. With all this activity, our Durham College and Ontario Tech community submitted 1,595 online ALC ballots and set a new record for number of participants.
ALC Winners
Week 1
Michael Rosedo (Ontario Tech)
Nicole Niklaus-Rochon (Durham College)
Week 2
Eden Henderson (Ontario Tech)
Monica Jain (Durham College)
Week 3
Odain Walch (Ontario Tech)
Lori Wilson (Durham College)
Week 4
Jamie Thistle (Durham College)
Kevin Jones (Durham College)
Grand Prize – two Batch Fitness Hybrid Bikes
Claire Carscadden (Ontario Tech)
Natalie Zarins (Durham College)
We also hosted weekly fitness challenges like wall sit, bar hang, plank, and grip strength, which saw over 60 participants alone in week 4.
Photos of the winners will be posted to DC-OT Campus Recreation Instagram.
Thank you to all that participated. We look forward to continuing to be a part of your active living journey!
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Join the Durham Lords and the Durham College Student Association (DCSA) at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre for an exciting night of basketball on Friday, February 13 celebrating Black History Month through sport, culture and community.
Durham College’s women’s and men’s basketball teams will face the George Brown Huskies in a Friday night doubleheader in partnership with the DCSA. The night will feature live music, shirts, free food and giveaways! We will also be celebrating our graduating seniors prior to each game.
The women's game begins at 6 p.m., with the men's game tipping off at 8 p.m.
If you can't make it out on Wednesday to see the debut of their black jerseys, the teams will be wearing them a second time at Friday's Culture on the Court matchup.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news of a mass shooting at the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School in British Columbia yesterday. Our thoughts are with the impacted students, employees, and families as they navigate the profound grief and trauma caused by this horrific act of violence.
Incidents like this extend far beyond the immediate community and can be deeply unsettling for students and employees across the education sector, including here at Durham College. In moments like these, it is important that we reaffirm our commitment to creating safe, supportive, and welcoming spaces for all members of our community. We encourage everyone to check in with colleagues, classmates, and friends, and to seek support if needed. Small acts of care and connection can make a meaningful difference during difficult times.
Supports and resources are always available to members of the Durham College community. Anyone in need of support is encouraged to reach out.
For Employees
Homewood Health is accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).
For Students
I.M. Well Student Assistance Program (24/7): 1-833-398-9040
Good2Talk Helpline (24/7): 1-866-925-5454
Durham College Student Association – Support Hub: DCSA.SupportHub@durhamcollege.ca or Support Hub
Campus Health and Wellness Centre: 905-721-3037, CHWC@durhamcollege.ca or CHWC
First Peoples Indigenous Centre: indigenous@durhamcollege.ca
Access and Support Centre: ASC@durhamcollege.ca
Additional campus and community resources are available online at Are You Ok?
The Durham College (DC) Board of Governors sets the course for our future. Comprised of 12 external board members, four internal board members and the college president, they guide us in our ongoing vision to transform lives, build careers and enrich communities.
Lisa Allen has served as an external Governor for the Durham College (DC) Board of Governors since 2020 and is currently the Chair of the Board. She brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, risk management, internal controls, and data analytics to DC.
Lisa spoke to us about her drive to give back to the community, how the strategic vision resonated with her, the DC program she'd love to enrol in, and what she would teach if given the opportunity.
What motivated you to get involved with the DC Board of Governors?
My motivation comes from being a long time Durham Region resident and a desire to continue giving back to the community in a meaningful way. Volunteerism has always been important to me, and over time I became increasingly aware of the College's far-reaching impact — both within our region and well beyond it.
Joining the Board felt like a natural extension of that commitment. While the institution is grounded in post-secondary education, its influence touches so many aspects of our community and contributes to conversations at the provincial, national, and even global levels.
Serving on the Board has allowed me to stay connected and engaged while supporting an institution that plays such a vital role in shaping the future of our community.
What inspires you most about DC, its employees or its students?
What inspires me most about DC is the strong and meaningful connection between students and employees. I recently attended an Academic Kickoff session where I saw a video that featured story after story from students who spoke about how an employee had made a real difference in their lives. Through guidance, encouragement, and support, those employees helped students recognize their own potential and achieve things they hadn't thought possible.
Those moments truly stayed with me. Students are the reason I do this work — their growth, their aspirations, and their futures. But it is the employees who make that transformation possible. Their dedication, the relationships they build with students, and the way they show up every day create an environment where students can truly thrive.
In many ways, students are the “why," and employees are the “how." It's that partnership — and the impact it creates — that inspires me most.
In 2025, the Board approved a new Strategic Vision for the college. What part of the Strategic Vision resonates with you the most, and why?
The part of the Strategic Vision that resonates most with me is the first goal — our future-focused commitment to being the first and best choice as a globally recognized leader in delivering the innovative, lifelong learning that students, communities, and industries need most.
What really stands out to me is the emphasis on looking ahead and setting ambitious goals. A long term, future oriented mindset is essential for any institution that wants to remain relevant and truly transformative. This goal speaks to a willingness to evolve, to innovate, and to continuously strive for excellence.
For me, it's about encouraging everyone — students, employees, and the institution as a whole — to aim higher and not limit their potential. That drive to think boldly and reach beyond what's expected is what makes this vision so meaningful.
If you had the opportunity to return to DC as a student, what program would you take?
I would take the Trade Fundamentals program. During the pandemic, I became a bit of a backyard mechanic and started doing my own oil and tire changes, which sparked my love for do-it-yourself projects.
What I enjoyed most was how practical and immediately useful those skills were. Building a stronger foundation across different trades would be both helpful and empowering, and it's something I would genuinely enjoy pursuing.
If you had to teach a 10-minute class on anything, what would it be?
I would love to teach a class on personal finance and budgeting, as it aligns closely with my own skill set. For me, it wouldn't just be about covering the fundamentals — it would be about helping people define what “enough" truly means for them.
So many individuals grapple with questions like: Can I retire? Am I choosing a career that will support the lifestyle I want? What does financial security look like for me? These are deeply personal questions, and I would want to equip people with the tools and confidence to answer them for themselves.
This message is sent on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.
The College Employer Council (CEC) has provided a message related to the CAAT Pension Plan and they have asked that it be shared with all college employees. Please see the attached communication from the CEC.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to ctl@durhamcollege.ca.
Winter Academic PD Day
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Location: Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR)
Website: durhamcollege.ca/ctl/pd/academic-pd/winter-2026
Location & Date Change Notes
While we are aware Academic PD Day has historically been held in the Centre for Collaborative Education (CFCE) during the fall reading week and the week before the start of the spring semester, we have moved the event to the Centre for Innovation and Research (CIR) on Thursday, March 5, 2026 for the winter.
Join us for a special Academic PD Day during the winter Reading Week!
Dr. Jean Choi will kick-off the morning with the launch of DC's new Academic plan! During this event, we will continue exploring Fostering Inclusivity and how it aligns with the Braiding Learning Framework, launched last fall.
CALL FOR PROPOSALS
Do you foster an inclusive, brave space in your classroom?
We encourage you to submit sessions focused on your experiences with creating a more inclusive, diverse space and ways in which you are using Universal Design for Learning or Wholistic approaches in your classroom. However, we are also open to accepting sessions that highlight general teaching, learning and assessment practices at DC. Individual and/or joint (interdisciplinary and cross-departmental) session(s) will be considered.
When completing your proposal, you will be asked to submit a title, short session description and names of co-presenters (if applicable). The session description you provide will be used in CTL promotional materials for the event, including the CTL Compass and on CTL socials.
Be a part of Winter Academic PD Day!
Proposals will be accepted until February 16.
[ SUBMIT A PROPOSAL ]
Learn more
Visit the CTL website for additional details.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
The Social Impact Hub received an Institutional Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada designed to assist Canadian post-secondary institutions to develop and maintain a solid base of research and research-related activities in the social sciences and humanities.
With these funds, the Social Impact Hub is launching the first Explore Grant competition offering micro-grants to support full-time faculty members embarking on projects that are one semester in length. Each project is eligible to receive funding for a student Research Assistant to provide an experiential learning opportunity for a Durham College student and as well as minimal funds for additional resources required to complete the project. The faculty lead will receive eight hours SWF time to complete the project.
Eligibility:
To be eligible, project activities must meet the following:
The research activity must be primarily in a social science or humanities discipline (aligned with the SSHRC legislated mandate) and;
The intended outcome of the research must primarily be to add to our understanding and knowledge of individuals, groups, and societies - what we think, how we live, and how we interact with each other and the world around us.
Funded activities must lead to/support a plan for external application for research funds, including the College and Community Social Innovation Fund.
Applicants must be full-time DC faculty members and must receive approval from their Executive Dean/Associate Dean prior to submitting an application.
Priority will be given to projects with a focus on Indigenous Research as defined by SSHRC, with the aim of funding at least one per round.
Projects are expected to be completed within one semester.
Funding parameters:
Explore Grants will fund direct costs of applied research projects:
Teaching replacement costs, if required
Part-time student research assistant hours (35-55 hrs; one semester; one student)
Other eligible costs may include:
travel required to collect data or collaborate with community partner,
equipment, software or supplies,
honoraria for research participants and/or persons with lived experience.
Timeline:
Deadline March 6, 2026 by 5 p.m.
Review process March 2026
Results April 13, 2026
Project start date Fall 2026 (REB applications may be submitted in spring) or Winter 2027
Application Process:
Deadline: Friday March 6, 2026 (must be received by 5pm)
Submit applications by email to: socialimpacthub@durhamcollege.ca
The application form can be found here.
Join us for Session #2 of The Barrett Centre Winter Lecture Series,
Growing with Confidence: Financial Strategies for Scaling Urban Food Initiatives,
on Thursday, February 26th at 1:30pm.
This session features Anchor Speaker Jennifer Bedford from Durham College, who will explore how participatory storytelling can engage communities, strengthen urban agriculture projects and create actionable insights for municipal and industry partners.
Following her presentation, Jennifer will be joined by an expert panel that includes:
Domenique Mastronardi from Beck's Broth
Andrew Staniforth from RBC
Carrie Hage from Rideau Hall Foundation
This session will introduce participants to participatory storytelling and explore how this approach can be applied when communicating with funders. Participants will learn how crafting compelling narratives can help engage with funding networks and support connections to mission-aligned financing opportunities. The session will also highlight how storytelling builds practical skills for grant writing, proposal development, and reporting, helping to support sustainable and accountable growth.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-barrett-centre-winter-lecture-series-session-2-tickets-1981783231995?aff=oddtdtcreator
This message is being shared on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
This morning, the provincial government announced a major investment of $6.4 billion over four years to provide new funding for colleges, universities and Indigenous institutions.
This announcement is welcome news following many months of sustained advocacy by Ontario post-secondary institutions, urging the government to stabilize and modernize funding and reconsider its seven-year tuition freeze. Today's commitment signals that the government has heard the concerns raised and is investing to address the sector's structural funding gap, supporting financial sustainability. Colleges are being recognized for the critical role they play in preparing the workforce on which Ontario's economy depends.
We are grateful for the province's significant investment; it is an important and positive step forward. The individual allocations of the funding for each institution, including Durham College (DC), have not yet been shared. Once we receive the critical details around this announcement, we'll be in a better position to assess the direct impact on DC.
In the meantime, I am encouraged by this news for our sector. I will keep you informed as more details become available.
Please read the full release from the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
This message is sent on behalf of the Durham College Indigenization Council.
Durham College (DC) continues to strengthen its commitment to Indigenization, integrating Indigenous perspectives across the College and fostering a supportive environment for Indigenous students. This work is guided by Colleges and Institutes Canada's Indigenous Education Protocol, which underscores the importance of structures and approaches required to address Indigenous peoples' learning needs and support the self-determination and socio-economic development of Indigenous communities.
Over the past year, teams across DC took meaningful steps to honour Indigenous cultures, support Indigenous students, and contribute to the broader goals of reconciliation and decolonization in education.
Key highlights from the year include:
Suswaaning Endaajig - First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC)
Focused on four key areas: cultural education and teachings, campus-wide events and engagement, education and awareness across campus, and cross-campus partnerships. Activities included Elder-led teachings and Sharing Circles on Residential Schools and reconciliation. They hosted campus-wide events, partnered with the Centre for Teaching and Learning on faculty development, collaborated with community partners to provide Traditional Healing services, and amplified Indigenous authors and resources online.
Embedding Indigenous perspectives in teaching and learning
Introduced the Braiding Learning Framework, designed to integrate and harmonize various pedagogical practices, fostering an inclusive, engaging, and empowering learning environment for all.
Celebrating Indigenous creativity and ways of knowing
Installed an Indigenous student artist's painting of the 13 Moons in prominent locations on the Oshawa and Whitby campuses.
Amplified Indigenous stories through social media and our digital content collection.
Advancing Indigenous-led and Indigenous-informed research
Hosted training on the First Nations Principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) through the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Featured a presentation on Indigenous community-based research as part of the Voices of Impact speaker series.
T4's for 2025 are available for all employees via ADP Work Force Now online platform. Please ensure you have registered with Work Force Now to access T4's and Pay Statements click the following link and enter User ID and Password : https://workforcenow.adp.com
Once logged in, select Myself, Pay, Pay & Tax Statements from the menu bar.
Your T4 will appear at the top right of the screen under the section titled, Tax Statements.
Click on View Statement. Security Checkpoint will prompt you to select how to receive your security code.
Enter the verification code provided by Security Checkpoint and click on Submit Code.
Your T4 will appear. You can now save and/or print.
If you have concerns, please reach out via email payrolldepartment@durhamcollege.ca
Please Note: many employees work multiple contracts and may be paid through different payroll business numbers, resulting in multiple tax statements; please ensure you retrieve all your T4's.
Annual tax statements and pay statement will be available to you on this web site for three years. If you wish to retain your statement for a longer period, please print or save the electronic copy.
Additional Information: If you are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency “My Account" your T4 will update in “My Account". Login to your CRA account, under Tax information slips (T4 and more).
You can access historical T4's in your CRA account, from any employer.
Approval Status Pending
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Join Durham Regional Police Services for Power Hour: Safety and Empowerment Through Yoga, Community and Education. This free event aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence, connect students with campus and community resources, and bring our community together for a day of yoga and gentle movement.
When: Monday, February 23, 2026
Who: Women, Women-Identifying, Non-Binary, & Allies – Open to Durham College and Ontario Tech University staff, students, and faculty.
Where: G213 Dining Hall
Tabling Engagement: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Yoga Session 1: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Yoga Session 2: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Registration Form: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=pKe7SUtCcECnDohundfK75vDUsohDAxOpor_8aUGDCNUNU9RTTM1TVZCVE5YTk9STUZMUFU3NU1MRy4u&route=shorturl
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Camryn Wood of the women's basketball team and Romell Russell of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending February 15, 2026.
Wood, a Mechanical Techniques - Plumbing student, had a defining week in the paint. She grabbed a season-high 17 rebounds on Wednesday against the Georgian Grizzlies, her first double-digit rebounding performance of the season. She would enter double-digit territory again only two days later against the George Brown Huskies with 10. In a 67-64 win over Georgian, Wood also picked up a pair of assists while recording five steals and a made three-point shot against George Brown.
Russell, a General Arts & Science student, was consistent across two games last week versus Georgian and George Brown. On Wednesday, Russell tallied a team-leading 20 points, along with three steals, three assists and a pair of rebounds. He again led the team in points in an 81-63 win over George Brown, recording 19 points along with a three assists and three rebounds.
The women's basketball team are on the road for their 2026 OCAA Women's Basketball Championship qualifier, travelling to Etobicoke on Saturday, February 21 for a 6 p.m. tip-off against the Humber Hawks.
The men's basketball team will host the Niagara Knights at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre on Saturday for their 2026 OCAA Men's Basketball Championship qualifier, tipping off at 4 p.m.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
It's important that international students maintain valid study permits throughout their studies and obtain co-op work permits if their program includes a mandatory work component. We're hosting a virtual immigration workshop on February 25 at 2:30PM. Students can register HERE (available on Linktree) and attend this Extending Study Permit & Understanding “Maintained Status" workshop. Please help spread the word!
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.
SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.
What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction
Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.
When: Thursday February 19, 2026 till Monday February 23, 2026
Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible. Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.
The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):
Don Lovisa Main Entrance
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building by Greenhouse.
Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
I'm sorry to share with you that Alexandra “Sandi" Burns, a faculty member in the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology, has recently passed away.
Sandi joined Durham College (DC) in the fall of 2020 as a part-time professor, where she taught in the Architectural Technology program, teaching Architectural CAD II and Design Options Evaluation. She was dedicated to her students and consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to their learning, growth, and success.
A tribute to Sandi is available on the Westview Funeral Chapel website. To honour Sandi's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Sandi's family, colleagues, and friends during this difficult time.
Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).
This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
All 2026 graduating students are invited to attend Countdown to Grad. This is where they can register to graduate and learn all they need to know about resources available to them after Convocation.
Event Details:
Wednesday, March 11, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.
Whitby campus, Don Lovisa Building, atrium
Thursday, March 12, drop by anytime between 10 a.m. to noon.
Oshawa campus, Student Services Building (SSB), atrium
Faculty with classes during this time, we hope you will encourage your students to attend if scheduling permits. Attending the event should take approximately 30 minutes and will set students up for success as they prepare for Convocation.
In addition to registering to graduate, students will have the to opportunity to book graduation photos, connect with the Durham College Alumni Association, learn about Career Development supports and chat with recruitment about continued education.
Crave Doughnuts will also be providing our grads with a sweet treat to celebrate!
Students can register for the event until Friday, March 6. For more information, contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations.
This message is being shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Engagement Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
Hosted by the DC Alumni Association, the annual Etiquette Dinner invites alumni and students to enjoy a meal at Bistro '67 while learning business dining etiquette tips. Etiquette consultant Susy Fossati will conduct a practical lab where guests will learn how to navigate a three-course meal through to dessert and will leave fully equipped with the skills to make a lasting impression at any dining occasion.
Event Details:
Wednesday, March 25, 6 to 9 p.m.
Bistro '67
Tickets: $25
Encourage your students to join this memorable dining experience! Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
The most wholesome workout of the semester is BACK! 🐶🧘♀️
Puppy Yoga
Day One – March 11
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Day Two – March 12
10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Registration opens on Wednesday, February 25 at 12 p.m.
Spots are limited, so to secure your mat, a $5 refundable deposit is required for students and will be charged to your account. The charge will be removed once attendance is taken and you’ve attended your session. If you’re unable to attend and don’t cancel ahead of time, the deposit will be forfeited. Staff is also welcome to take part in Puppy Yoga.
To register after February 25, visit https://forms.office.com/r/Npg6MUAetM.
This message is shared on behalf of Adriana Hajdari, Advancement Data and Analytics Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
🎉 Congratulations, Christine Baily! 🎉
We're excited to announce that Christine Baily is this month's Payday Lottery Winner! Christine has won a total of $1,055, with the other half of funds collected this month directed to the Student Experience Fund.
Thank you to everyone who gives back to Durham College through the Payday Lottery. Your contributions directly support the purchase of new and upgraded equipment, helping our students become career-ready, equipped with skills and experience that align with industry demands and contribute to our local and global communities.
Payday Lottery is organized by Advancement and Alumni Relations. Learn more about the Payday Lottery and how to participate.
Stay tuned for next month's draw, and good luck!
Get ready to celebrate comfort in style!
On Friday, February 20, our Campus Stores are hosting a one-of-a-kind Flash Sale for National Comfy Day.
✨ Enjoy 30% OFF all casual comfort styles ✨
🕒 Sale Times:
Oshawa Store: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Whitby Store: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (extended time to make up for the daily lunch closure from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM)
This is the perfect chance to grab your favourite cozy essentials at an amazing price, but only for a few hours!
📍 In-store event only
⏳ No holds. No online orders. Limited time.
Make sure you stop by on Friday between 12 PM – 2 PM and take advantage of this comfy deal. We can’t wait to see you there!
This message is being shared on behalf of Communications and Marketing. Please direct any questions to Justin Christie, Manager, Digital Media.
To enhance the security of our digital assets, effective Friday, February 20, access to Durham College's Photo and Media databases will transition to VPN-only access when connecting off campus. This change ensures our digital photo and video assets remain protected while continuing to support the college's work. After this date:
On‑campus users will continue to access the databases normally, with no VPN required.
Off‑campus users will need to connect to VPN before accessing the photo and media repositories. Note: All DC employees should have VPN access. If you are having trouble connecting to the VPN, please email servicedesk@dc-ot.ca for assistance.
Thank you for helping us maintain a secure and reliable digital environment.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
This Sunday, February 22 is Human Trafficking Awareness Day.
Human trafficking involves recruiting, moving, or holding victims to exploit them for profit, usually for sexual reasons or forced labour. Traffickers can control and pressure victims by force or through threats, including mental and emotional abuse and manipulation. In 2024, the Durham Regional Police Services' Human Trafficking Unit investigated 249 incidents involving elements of human trafficking. According to Statistics Canada's 2024 report on Trafficking in persons in Canada, the vast majority (93%) of identified victims of police-reported human trafficking were women and girls, two-thirds of whom were younger than 25. This tells us that human trafficking in Canada is a matter of gender-based violence.
Every year, Human Trafficking Awareness Day provides us with an opportunity to educate ourselves about this issue. Raising awareness also helps us recognize the signs of human trafficking—so that we can be better prepared to identify potential victims and end this ongoing crisis. Educational institutions play an important role in protecting their students from exploitation and human trafficking. We also have unique opportunities to help educate students about their rights in Canada, what resources are available to them, and how to identify and safely respond to potential situations of exploitation, abuse and trafficking. This work can help prevent an exploitative situation from happening in the first place.
By working together, we can make a difference both here in Durham, and around the world. You can join us in raising awareness of and fighting against human trafficking by:
Familiarizing yourself with relevant ICE resources on Emergency Preparedness and Employee Wellness. Visit the OEDI website for Human Rights and Sexual Violence supports and resources, relevant Community Resources, as well as the recently updated Sexual Assault and Sexual Violence policy.
Reporting any suspicious activity you may witness related to human trafficking by calling the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.
Learning more about governmental resources to help and protect victims of human trafficking.
This message is being shared on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment. Please direct any inquiries to Evan Arsenault, Event Coordinator, Communications and Marketing.
Durham College's Spring Open House is set for Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses and we need your energy and enthusiasm to help showcase DC to prospective students and families!
Spring Open House is a key recruitment event where guests can explore our campuses, meet program representatives, learn about student services, and imagine themselves starting their academic journey at DC.
Why your participation matters:
Help guests feel welcome and informed as they explore the 145+ career-focused programs we offer at DC.
Share your insights into campus life, facilities, support services, and the opportunities that make DC a compelling choice.
Promote specific program highlights or experiences that inspire confidence in prospective students.
Participant roles include:
Welcoming guests and answering questions
Tour guide support
General event assistance
Apply Now room support
If you're not already representing your Faculty or department at the event, this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues across DC and engage directly with future students.
If you are interested in participating, register online by Wednesday, March 11
We appreciate your support and look forward to showcasing the best of Durham College together!
This message is being sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment, Communications and Marketing. Please direct questions to Nicole Davidson, Senior Recruitment Strategist, Communications and Marketing.
Help us spread the word about our upcoming March Break Program Showcase and Tours.
Prospective students and applicants are invited to join us from March 16 to 20 to explore programs, tour facilities and experience selected programs in a hands-on environment at both our Oshawa and Whitby campuses.
This event is designed for high school students, career changers, and anyone considering post-secondary education, including current DC students exploring a second program or continuing their studies. We ask that you share this opportunity with anyone considering their education options. Whether it's a neighbour's teenager, a friend considering a career change, or a family member looking at their next step, this event can help them see what makes DC the Best. Decision. Ever.
The March Break Program Showcase is an opportunityfor prospective students to:
Explore programs across eight faculties at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses
Experience hands-on learning through lab demonstrations and interactive activities
Meet program experts who can answer your questions
Tour our state-of-the-art facilities, including shops, labs, and learning spaces
Connect with student recruitment to learn about services that support your transition to college
Discover the career pathways that could shape your future
Registration is now open and full details are available on our website. Help us connect with prospective students and show them how DC can transform their lives and build their careers.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Veronika Cavojska of the women's volleyball team and Desson Spencer of the men's basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending February 22, 2026.
Cavojska, a 911 Emergency & Call Centre Communications student, delivered one of her strongest performances of the season in Durham's 3-1 quarter-final win over the Cambrian Shield. She recorded seven kills on a .235 hitting percentage, marking her second-highest kill total of the year. Cavojska also added one service ace, ten digs — her seventh double-digit dig performance this season, and two solo blocks, finishing the match with 10.0 points.
Spencer, a Trades Fundamentals student, contributed to a strong start to the postseason in Durham's 84-59 championship qualifier victory over the Niagara Knights. He posted a season-high 14 points and pulled down a team-leading 15 rebounds to record a double-double, tying his season-best on the boards. Spencer also contributed one assist and one steal while shooting an efficient 5-for-8 from the field.
The women's volleyball team are off to the semifinals at the 2026 OCAA Women's Volleyball Championship against the St. Clair Saints next weekend. Date and time is still to be determined.
The men's basketball team advance to the quarter-final round of the 2026 OCAA Men's Basketball Championship. They will travel to Etobicoke to take on the Humber Hawks. Date and time is still to be determined.
This message is being sent on behalf of the Office of Campus Safety.
As Durham College (DC) recognizes Campus Safety Week February 23 to 27, it is an opportunity to reflect on and reinforce the ways we support a safe and secure environment for all members of our community.
At DC, safety is a shared responsibility, and a comprehensive range of services and protocols are in place to support students, employees, and visitors across our campuses.
Campus safety services
To promote a safe campus environment, Campus Security provides:
24/7 patrols
Code Blue stations located outside on campus and connect directly to Security staff
Campus Walk teams who will accompany you to your car or other campus locations on request during evening hours.
Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) which is available when? to help address medical and other urgent needs.
Emergency notifications
Critical information about active threats or emergency situations are communicated through the Alertus Emergency Notification System. Notices may be sent through:
AlertAware mobile app
Alertus beacons
desktop alerts
PA announcements
digital signage
Employees are encouraged to download the Alertus App and register to receive notifications on their mobile devices.
Reporting threats
We also want to remind all employees of the correct steps to take if you receive a threatening email or similar electronic safety concern:
Do not respond – do not reply, forward, delete or engage with the sender, and do not open links or attachments.
Preserve the message – keep it exactly as received, including the date and time.
Report immediately – notify your manager and Campus Security at xxxxx, as soon as possible.
Do not investigate – do not analyze the threat or discuss it with others unless directed by safety officials.
Emergency preparedness
Colour-coded emergency information posters are displayed throughout campus buildings in key locations. In addition, red “emergency" flipbooks can be found in all departmental offices. Please take time to familiarize yourself with the safety practices outlined in them.
Thank you for your continued commitment to safety. To learn more about campus safety services and emergency procedures, please visit the Campus Safety web page.
This message is being shared on behalf of Jelena Vulovic-Basic – Senior Director, Faciities Management . Please direct inquiries to Tara Betterley, Project Coordinator, Facilities.
SERVICE IMPACT MESSAGE: Whitby Campus – North East Doors of Don Lovisa.
What: Accessible Door Installation – Vestibule reconstruction
Where: North East Doors at Don Lovisa Building – between Auto Shop and PROTO.
When: Monday February 23, 2026 till Wednesday February 25, 2025
Impact: During this time, the doors will not be accessible. Pedestrians are asked to use alternate locations to exit or enter the building.
The following alternate exits are available (Map attached):
Don Lovisa Main Entrance
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit by Shipping/Receiving
Don Lovisa – Entrance/Exit at the North West side of the building.
Signage will be posted during the ongoing work to indicate alternate exit points, as required.
Thank you for your patience and co-operation.
(Same map as provided in previous communication.)
This message is shared on behalf of the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Please direct questions to Crystal Garvey, Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences.
Join us for a special screening of Silent Voices at Durham College (DC)!
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: Doors open at 12:30 p.m. | Screening at 1 p.m.
Location: Center for Innovation and Research (CIR) 102
Enjoy food, community connection, and a thought-provoking documentary on mental health within Black communities, highlighting lived experiences of racism and systemic inequities. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion.
All staff and students from DC and Ontario Tech University are welcome.
This event is especially valuable for:
Second-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students (replacing a virtual simulation in their mental health course; reflective discussion and course credit included)
Students in front-line healthcare and community service programs (certificate of participation provided)
About the Film:
Originally recorded during Black Mental Health Week 2022, Silent Voices uses unfiltered narratives to increase understanding, support, and advocacy in healthcare. Critically acclaimed, it has won Best Documentary at both the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival and the Canadian Black Screen Awards.
Registration is required. Reserve your spot online.
Durham College is proud to host the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Ontario Provincial Championship on our Oshawa campus on Saturday, January 31, and Sunday, February 1, 2026.
Over 400 students, ages nine to 14, will compete in exciting LEGO robotics challenges, joined by their families, teachers, and coaches. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the creativity, innovation, and energy of these young STEM enthusiasts right here on campus.
We encourage you to come by, watch the competition, and cheer on these inspiring students. Whether you stop in for a few minutes or spend the day, your support will make the event even more memorable for the participants.
There are still opportunities to volunteer at the event. Find more information here.
Learn more about the event. We hope to see you there!
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
On Monday, January 19, we welcomed 15 high school students from Brazil who visited with one of our partner agents as part of the “A Day in Durham College" experience. The students spent the day on the Oshawa campus participating in a variety of activities designed to showcase what Durham College has to offer. This visit allowed them to explore campus life, learn about our academic programs, and gain firsthand insight into what it means to be part of the Durham College community.
This is what our future international students Samiir and Amisha had to say after attending the Program Information Night this week:
"From the moment we arrived, the experience was very helpful. The staff at the International table and the other tables had all the information we needed and took the time to explain everything clearly. The application process was made simple and stress-free, and we were able to apply quickly and with confidence. Attending a program information night really helped us understand our options and made a big difference in our decision. We would definitely recommend joining a program information night if you're in Canada."
We are hosting a Global Café - Roommate Mixer session this Thursday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM in the Fireside Room within the DCSA building. This session is designed to help our students find compatible roommates and housing options. Together, we will discover strategies for an affordable housing and have conversations around housing resources and money saving techniques. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is shared on behalf of Adriana Hajdari, Data and Analytics Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
🎉 Congratulations, Robert Heale! 🎉
We’re excited to announce that Robert Heale is this month’s Payday Lottery Winner! Robert has won a total of $1,157.50, with the other half of funds collected this month directed to the Student Experience Fund.
This month we held a bonus draw to thank you for staying with us during the transition from physical ticket draws to an electronic draw system using Rafflebox. Congratulations to our Bonus Draw winners Kayla Goldhawk and Adrienne Rogers! Kayla has won the $100 gift card to Bistro ’67, and Adrienne is the lucky winner of the DC Alumni swag gift bag.
Thank you to everyone who gives back to Durham College through the Payday Lottery. Your contributions directly support the purchase of new and upgraded equipment, helping our students become career-ready, equipped with skills and experience that align with industry demands and contribute to our local and global communities.
Payday Lottery is organized by Advancement and Alumni Relations. Learn more about the Payday Lottery and how to participate.
Stay tuned for next month’s draw, and good luck!
Sent on behalf of Human Resources
Upcoming Finance Training Sessions – Common Forms Overview & Refresher
Finance is providing two training opportunities for any staff members who engage with the following forms or processes:
Business Meals & Hospitality
Business Travel & Medical Insurance
Cheque Requisitions
Delegation of Authority
Personal Signing Authority
Expense Report
Approval Processes
Business & Travel Expense Reimbursement Procedures
Exploring Common Issues with Expense Claims and PCard Reconciliations
The training sessions will be in-person at the Oshawa campus. The dates and locations are as follows:
Tuesday, February 10th from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the Athletics Boardroom (G2021)
Thursday March 19th from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. in the Athletics Boardroom (G2021)
Register here for a session. Questions can be directed to professionaldevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.
This message is sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment. Questions can be directed to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects.
Thank you to everyone who played a role in delivering a successful Program Information Night experience for our guests earlier this week. The even showcased the strength of our programs, the enthusiasm of our employees, and our commitment to helping future learners make informed choices about their education and future career.
Across our Oshawa and Whitby campuses, we welcomed more than 1,300 guests, including prospective students, families and supporters and 376 prospective students submitted applications while onsite, reflecting strong interest in DC as their number one choice.
The energy on campus was remarkable, with steady traffic in the application room, and countless positive conversations with our guests.
Our collaboration to host these events plays a critical role in helping students choose DC. As a result of your efforts, our future students felt welcomed, informed and excited, reinforcing that choosing DC can truly be their “Best. Decision. Ever." Whether you were involved in planning, promoting or supporting these events, we appreciate your commitment to showcasing the very best of our college community.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations. For more information, contact Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer.
As part of its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan, the Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA) has committed to creating community impact by building meaningful partnerships with alumni, students, faculty and staff, industry, and the broader community.
Through sponsorship, the DCAA is proud to support initiatives that align with or furthers the association's purpose and goals:
Our Purpose
We foster a lifelong sense of belonging through connection, engagement, and shared pride in Durham College.
Goal 1
Strengthen alumni belonging and identity
Goal 2
Support the continued growth of alumni
Goal 3
Mobilize alumni to create community impact
If you're hosting an event that involves students and alumni, and are interested in sponsorship, please review the Application for Sponsorship Request document available on the DC Alumni website or contact Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer. All requests for support are approved by the DCAA Board of Directors.
This message is sent on behalf of the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (OEDI)
The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion invites the Durham College (DC) community to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Tuesday, January 27 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Multi-Faith and Quiet Space (JW 101) at the Oshawa campus.
The event is held in collaboration with Durham College's Jewish Students Alliance and the Chabad Jewish Center of Durham Region. Rabbi Tzali Borenstein will join us to share his family history and critical reflections around the Holocaust. There will be a question and answer period and a communal prayer. Kosher refreshments will be served.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly on November 1, 2005, to honour the memory of those who suffered and died during the Holocaust. The date, January 27, marks the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945. This day provides an opportunity to reflect carefully on the atrocities committed against Jewish people and other oppressed minorities during World War II and to consider their enduring impact.
All DC community members are encouraged to join us in reflecting and honouring the stories and lives of those tragically lost during the Holocaust.
Durham College is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful learning and working environment. Below are some resources to help us learn more about International Holocaust Remembrance Day and our rights and responsibilities to create a campus community free of hate, discrimination and harassment.
The Ontario Human Rights Code
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
2026 Holocaust Remembrance and Education - United Nations
International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust
For mental health and well-being resources and support, visit:
Please be advised that in accordance with the December 15, 2025 Kaplan Award CEC- OPSEU - Award.pdf, a 2.5% wage increase for Part-Time support Staff Employees is reflected on today's pay, inclusive of retroactivity for eligible employees.
Employees are encouraged to review their pay slips and updated pay rates by accessing the ADP WorkForceNow_Employee_Self_Service_Registration.pdf
The next wage increase for active part time support staff employees will take place February 1, 2026.
This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please direct any questions to studentdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.
Faculty, staff and students are invited to stop by our upcoming Services Fair at the Whitby campus. The Services Fair brings student service areas together in one place, making it easy for you to see what's new, meet the teams behind key supports, and gather resources to enhance your work with students.
Whether you are looking to refresh your knowledge or build connections with campus partners, the Service Fair offers a convenient and worthwhile opportunity.
Whitby Campus:
January 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Student Lounge, Don Lovisa building
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Sarah-Jane Laplante of the women’s basketball team and Rashane Smith of the men’s basketball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 25, 2026.
Laplante, a Police Foundations student, posted a season-high 25 points and season-high five steals against the Algonquin Wolves on Friday evening. In addition to accounting for 57% of Durham’s offence on the night, Laplante grabbed three defensive rebounds and generated an assist. Laplante helped lead the charge in the fourth quarter, scoring eight of 12 points as the team looked to close the gap at home.
Smith, a Fitness & Health Promotion student, was a key piece in a Durham Lords offence that scored a combined 212 points in under 24 hours against the Algonquin Wolves and La Cité Coyotes over the weekend. On Saturday in particular, Smith was an efficient shooter going 7-for-9 in a double-double performance with 15 points and 12 rebounds. Apart from hitting buckets and grabbing boards all weekend, Smith was all over the floor, recording a total of seven assists, four steals and two blocks.
The basketball teams are back in action in North York on Tuesday, January 27 as the Lords take on the Seneca Sting at 6/8 p.m.
This message is shared on behalf of Mary Weller, Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
Each year, Durham College (DC) alumni return to the campus to share their industry experience and career advice with our students. There is nothing more motivating to a student than to see a glimpse of what their future may hold after graduation.
If you're inviting DC grads to the classroom as guest speakers, we'd love to say thank you to them with a #DCAlumni gift!
To ensure your guests are recognized as part of the Alumni Guest Speaker program, fill out this quick online form. Please provide the Advancement and Alumni Relations team a minimum of five days in order to arrange delivery of the gift.
This is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Two former Durham College men's baseball players have carved out careers that now stretch far beyond the diamond in Oshawa. In 2026, Josh Krstulovich and Chris Kemlo were both named to Bob Elliott's Most Influential Canadians in Baseball, a recognition that reflects years of work developing, identifying and advocating for elite talent across North America.
Their paths to this distinction followed different timelines, but both included a stop with the Durham Lords baseball program.
Krstulovich's Durham College playing career spanned the 2018 and 2019 seasons. A graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School in Brampton, he arrived as a versatile athlete capable of contributing both on the mound and at first base.
Before joining the Chicago White Sox organization, Krstulovich served as a player/scout liaison with the Williamsport Crosscutters. His move into scouting soon paid dividends.
One of his most notable draft successes came when he drafted and signed right-handed pitcher Max Banks out of the University of Washington.
Years before Krstulovich's time in green and gold, Chris Kemlo was anchoring the Lords' pitching staff. An Oshawa native and graduate of R.S. McLaughlin CVI, Kemlo pitched for Durham College during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
His playing career included a CIBA Gold medal in 2011 and a fourth-place finish at nationals in 2012, accomplishments that laid the foundation for a future built around evaluating and developing pitching talent.
Kemlo's influence has been felt most strongly through the professional draft. In 2020, he selected outfielder Owen Caissie from the FieldHouse Pirates in the second round. Caissie later joined elite company by winning the Canadian Baseball Network's top hitter in the minors award, an honour previously earned by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Brett Lawrie and multiple-time winner Tyler O'Neill.
While Krstulovich and Kemlo took different routes after Durham College, their inclusion on Bob Elliott's 2026 list underscores the same truth: the impact of Durham College baseball extends well beyond wins and losses. From scouting rooms to draft calls, both alumni have played a direct role in shaping the next generation of the game in Canada and beyond.
This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources.
This is a reminder announcement for new employees who started with DC in 2025.
We kindly ask that you confirm all five mandatory trainings were completed upon hire. You can do this by reviewing your training certificates in Brightspace. For information on where to locate certificates, visit the mandatory training page on ICE.
If you do not have a record of all five legislated training certificates, please prioritize completing them as soon as possible. These include:
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act for Workers: Integrated Standards and Customer Service
Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
Workplace Violence and Harassment Prevention
Responding to Sexual Violence on Campus
These trainings are not just best practices—they are mandated by provincial legislation, helping to ensure we meet our legal obligations under acts such as the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
Questions can be directed to your manager or to professionaldevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.
Thank you for helping us maintain a workplace that is safe, inclusive, and compliant with Ontario's legislative requirements.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Academic Integrity Committee. Please direct any questions to the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL@durhamcollege.ca).
Academic Integrity Awareness Day – Wednesday, February 4 (10am to 2pm at both campuses)
The Academic Integrity Committee has partnered with DCSA to host an Academic Integrity Awareness Day on Wednesday, February 4 from 10am to 2pm. Events will be held in The Pit (Oshawa) and the Don Lovisa Building Atrium (Whitby). There will be activities, information sharing, and giveaways. Students can also enter the Academic Integrity Awareness Contest for a chance to win one of four- $25 gift cards to the Bookstore.
Creating a culture of academic integrity at DC involves the entire campus community and we invite you to engage in one or more of the following ways:
visit the CTL Academic Integrity page to access resources available to you
share the Academic Integrity Learning Resources with your students and encourage them to enter the digital scavenger hunt contest (contest runs from January 28 to February 5) for a chance to win a Bookstore gift card
share your story about academic integrity or what academic integrity means to you on our Padlet.
encourage your students to complete the Academic Integrity learning module in DC Connect and reflect on what academic integrity means to them.
Academic integrity is crucial in supporting the value and credibility of the education DC delivers and the credentials we confer. It fosters a culture of honesty, respect and responsibility, building trust among students, faculty, and the broader community. A positive culture of academic integrity means teaching and learning in an environment where honesty is valued, supporting students in the development of strong ethical foundations for their future endeavours.
This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please direct any questions to careerdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.
Durham College's (DC) Job Fair is coming up, and we're hosting several events with Career Development coaches who can answer students' questions and help them make a great first impression with employers. All sessions are free and available for DC students and alumni to attend. To learn more about the events and to register, they can visit the Hired Portal.
Date Time Event Location
Thursday, January 29 3:30 to 5 p.m. Pitch Perfect: Mastering Your Elevator Pitch in Real-Time Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa
Monday, February 2 2 to 3 p.m. Networking as a DC student Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa
Tuesday, February 3 10 to 11 a.m. Resumés − The Employers' Perspective Room 102, Centre for Innovation and Research, Oshawa
Tuesday, February 3 1 to 2:30 p.m. Pitch Perfect: Mastering Your Elevator Pitch in Real-Time Room 2-2, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby
Monday, February 9 2 to 3 p.m. Networking as a DC student Room 11-08, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby
Tuesday, February 10 10 to 11 a.m. Resumés − The Employers' Perspective Room 2-2, Don Lovisa Building, Whitby
The Durham College and Ontario Tech University Job Fair will be held at the Oshawa Campus on Thursday, February 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre in Gyms 3, 4 and 5.
The Durham College Job Fair will be held on Thursday, February 12 in the Don Lovisa Building (Atrium and Hallway) from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
A list of employers who are attending is available online.
Please share this information with your students and encourage them to keep up-to-date on Job Fair 2026 by following @GetHiredDC on Instagram, using #GetHiredDC on social media or visiting the Hired Portal.
This message is sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy and Assistant to the President.
In recognition of Data Privacy Day on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, you are invited to a focused 30‑minute session exploring the essentials of security and privacy breaches—what they are, how they happen, and the steps you can take to respond effectively. Join us online at 1:00 p.m. for an informative and practical discussion designed to strengthen your privacy awareness.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator
This message is shared on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governacne and Privacy and Assistant to the Preisdent.
In celebration of Data Privacy Day on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, we invite you to put your privacy knowledge to the test by completing our online privacy awareness quiz. Submit your entry by 4:30 p.m. on January 28 for a chance to be included in an optional draw for a $50 Oshawa Centre gift card
Access the quiz here: Celebrating Data Privacy Month at Durham College - January 2026 – Fill out form
This message is being shared on behalf of Meagan Quesnelle, Director, Dual Credits and Academic Upgrading, Faculty of Liberal Studies.
An important update is being made to how the School College Work Initiative (SCWI) is referred to at Durham College (DC).
Effective immediately, all references to “School College Work Initiative" or “SCWI" should be replaced with Dual Credits in all internal and external communications. This change reflects a provincial shift toward using Dual Credits as the standard name for the program across Ontario. This is a name change only. The program continues to operate as usual, and DC remains fully committed to supporting students through Dual Credit opportunities that enable high school students to earn both secondary and postsecondary credits.
What this means for employees:
Update all references in your communications, documents, presentations, email templates, and shared resources.
When speaking with partners, secondary school contacts, or students, use Dual Credits instead of SCWI.
If you maintain any public-facing content (such as websites, brochures, or forms), please plan to update materials to remove SCWI references and replace them with Dual Credits.
Thank you for your attention and cooperation. If you have questions about wording updates or require revised templates, please contact Meagan Quesnelle or Victoria Kee.
This message is sent on behalf of Rick Hutchinson, Vice President, Strategic Infrastructure and Campus Safety.
Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University (OTU) invite you to explore the draft of our Campus Master Plan (CMP), the long-term vision for our shared Oshawa campus.
Check out the website: Read the draft CMP, see the guiding principles, and watch the urban planning team speak to the vision. You can also share feedback or ask questions online.
Drop by on campus: Explore interactive displays, ask questions, and share your ideas about the future of our campus. Join us in The PIT Wednesday, February 4 from 2 to 4 p.m.
The CMP is more than a planning document; it reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence, student experience, research, sustainability, and community connection. Visit the website to see how the plan will guide future decisions about campus spaces and infrastructure, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our institutions, students, and community.
What makes this Plan special is the collaboration behind it. DC and OTU share more than buildings — we share a vision for innovation, learning, and impact. Together, we're building a campus that's vibrant, inclusive, and ready for the future.
This message is sent on behalf of Human Resources, in collaboration with the Athletics Team
Staff and students are invited to join the upcoming nutrition seminar with holistic nutritionist, Sylvia Emmory, RHN, RNCP, ROHP.
Reset & Recharge: 7 Nutrition Strategies to Start Your Year Strong
Kick off the New Year feeling energized and focused. This seminar will explore practical strategies, with an emphasis on small, sustainable changes. The session will share practical strategies and explore 10 different nutrient-rich foods that can be easily incorporated into a daily routine—boosting energy, supporting health, and setting the tone for an intentional year.
Thursday, January 29th from 1 – 2 p.m.
Register here and a link will be provided to join this virtual seminar.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
For this month, our immigration workshop will focus on applying for a co-op work permit. If an international student is unsure whether they need a co-op work permit for their program, please encourage them to join our workshop to learn the ins and outs of applying for this permit from within Canada. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
As Artificial Intelligence continues to redefine the global professional landscape, staying proficient in these emerging technologies is essential for maintaining a competitive advantage. To support your professional development, Professional & Part-Time Learning (PPL) is pleased to announce our upcoming 7-week online AI certificate courses beginning this January.
Agentic AI: No-Code Solutions for Agents: Learn to architect and deploy autonomous AI agents tailored to support your specific workflows, entirely without the need for programming knowledge.
AI Prompt Engineering: Develop the specialized communication skills required to effectively direct generative AI tools, ensuring high-quality, actionable outputs.
Duration: 7 weeks
Format: Fully Online
Start Date: January 2026
Registration is now open. You can click here to learn more: https://durhamcollege.ca/academic-faculties/professional-and-part-time-learning/programs-and-courses/artificial-intelligence-courses
This message is sent on behalf of Data Privacy Planning Team. If you have any questions, reach out to us at privacy@durhamcollege.ca.
Please share this message with your teams as appropriate.
Durham College (DC) is proud to recognize the 19th anniversary of Data Privacy Day in Canada — an annual opportunity to promote awareness about the importance of privacy and the protection of personal information. This year's theme, “You have the power to take charge of your data," reflects our shared responsibility to safeguard the information we handle. DC is marking the occasion with several activities designed to support learning and engagement.
Privacy Awareness Quiz
Employees are invited to test their knowledge by completing our privacy awareness quiz. Entries submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, will be entered into a draw for a $50 Oshawa Centre gift card.
Privacy Awareness Booth
On January 28, visit our privacy awareness booth in The PIT at the Oshawa Campus between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Engage in interactive activities designed to help you better understand how to take charge of your personal data. This booth is supported by the Centre for Cybersecurity.
Privacy in Practice Series
On January 28 at 1 p.m., employees are invited to attend the next session in our Privacy in Practice series. This 30-minute presentation will explore the differences between security and privacy breaches, introduce the College's Privacy Breach Protocol, and provide guidance on what to do if a breach is suspected. Register for this session at: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator
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.
If your students are eager to continue their studies, invite them to register for the event today! By attending, students will learn about the many options that await them after graduation, and how their DC education can give them a head start on their next credential.
Please direct questions to pathways@durhamcollege.ca.
This message is shared on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity.
On January 1, 2026, Homewood Health officially became Durham College's (DC) new Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, replacing TELUS Health.
Over the next two months, Homewood Health will offer virtual information seminars for DC employees and managers. These sessions will provide an overview of the online platform, how individuals can access service, and what services and resources are available to full-time employees and eligible dependants.
Employee sessions
Friday, January 30, 1 to 1:45 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 12 to 12:45 p.m.
Register here for an employee session.
Manager sessions
Monday, January 19, 1 to 2 p.m.
Monday, February 9, 2 to 3 p.m.
These sessions are only available to Administrative staff. Register here.
Learn more on the EFAP ICE page
Full-time employees are encouraged to learn more about the services available to them on the dedicated EFAP page on ICE.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Kelly Doyle at Kelly.doyle@durhamcollege.ca.
This message is being sent on behalf of Traci Ellis, Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment. Questions can be directed to Pamela Dunn, Manager, Events and Special Projects.
There is still time to support prospective students by encouraging them to register for Durham College's (DC) Program Information Nights taking place next week at our Oshawa and Whitby campuses.
Program Information Nights offer future or current students a chance to learn about DC's programs, services and learning environment. Attendees will be able to:
Meet admissions and student recruitment representatives, speak with faculty, and learn more about DC's 145+ full-time programs and wide range of part-time options.
Apply on-site at our application workshop, with the $150 application fee waived, and pick up some DC swag.
Connect with student services to discover the supports available to help students succeed.
Take a guided campus tour and experience all that DC has to offer.
Be entered for a chance to win a $5,000 tuition credit.
Oshawa Campus
Gordon Willey Building, South Wing Entrance
Tuesday, January 20
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Whitby Campus
Don Lovisa Building, Atrium
Wednesday, January 21
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Help prospective students take the next step! Share the registration link with individuals considering post-secondary education, including friends, family members and community contacts. Your support helps future students make informed decisions and experience what DC has to offer.
This message is being sent on behalf of the Emergency Management Response Team.
As a result of Environment Canada upgrading its weather alert for our region to the orange level, Durham College (DC) in-person classes, including Professional and Part-Time Learning, and campus operations will be cancelled as of 11 a.m. today. Remote and online classes will continue as scheduled. Regular in-person operations will resume on Friday, January 16, unless otherwise communicated.
Students and employees who are currently on campus are encouraged to leave any time before 11 a.m., except those deemed essential service employees. Please use caution when travelling.
Students should check DC Connect for specific course updates from their faculty member. Students who are on clinical and work placements should follow their employer's direction.
Employees should check with their managers regarding remote work expectations.
While campus facilities, including the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, Libraries, Bistro '67 and the DC Spa will be closed, the Campus Fieldhouse and Ice Centre will remain open. The Fieldhouse and Ice Centre follow closure decisions made by the City of Oshawa. Some food services will also remain open.
Should further updates impact services, operations, or class delivery for students and employees, DC will advise the campus community through email, social media, mobile app, and our campus status website.
This message is being shared on behalf of Kevin Maloney, Manager, Risk Management.
I am pleased to announce that Banimibo-Ofori Thomas (Bani) will be joining Durham College as our new Environmental, Occupational Health & Safety Officer, effective Monday, January 19.
Bani brings over 15 years of experience in environmental management and occupational health and safety leadership across diverse sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas. Her most recent role as Health & Safety Officer at Canada Post Corporation involved leading organizational risk assessments, implementing safety programs, and delivering ergonomic training to enhance workplace safety awareness. Prior to that, she served as Senior Environmental, Health & Safety Advisor/Auditor in the oil and gas industry, where she supported ISO certifications, conducted audits, and managed hazardous waste compliance.
Bani holds a Master of Science in Environmental Management, a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Chemistry and Petrochemical Technology, has her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, and is currently preparing for her Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) certification.
Please join me in congratulating Bani on her new role and welcoming her to Durham College.
This message is sent on behalf of Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice-President, Human Resources and Equity. Please direct inquiries to Kelly Doyle, Director, Organizational Effectiveness.
Human Resources is accepting applications to the Faculty Professional Development Leave for the 2026-2027 academic year.
The full-time Academic Staff Collective Agreement has a provision under Article 20, along with the College's Professional Development Leave – Academic policy, that full-time faculty are given the opportunity by the College to pursue College-approved professional development activities outside the College through further academic or technical studies or in industry where such activities will enhance the ability of the employee upon return to the College to fulfill professional responsibilities.
To learn more about the Leave, and to access the application form and related documents, visit Faculty PD Leave.
Applications are due by email to Human Resources at ProfessionalDevelopment@durhamcollege.ca by 4 p.m. on February 20, 2026. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application no later than March 31, 2026.
Please reach out to Kelly Doyle if you have any questions.
FREE Group Fitness returns to the CRWC on Monday, January 19. Classes range from Pilates to yoga, and spin, as well as a new women's only Belly Dance class on Fridays. For more information, visit our website and learn how to reserve your spot.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Jessie Buck of the women's volleyball team and Jonas Felix of the men's volleyball team have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 18, 2026.
Buck, an Architectural Technology student, was a key reason that the Lords swept through the weekend with wins on back-to-back days against Georgian and Canadore. Across two matches, Buck registered 21 kills and 46 total attempts for an impressive .615 hitting percentage with a team-high six service aces, seven digs and two solo blocks. Buck finished the weekend tied for the team-high in points with 29.0 over eight sets played.
Felix, an Accounting - Business student, had a very strong weekend and contributed all over the court. In two matches, Felix recorded 18 kills on 58 total attempts and four service aces for a team-high 22.0 points. He was also reliable in the back court, leading the team with a total of 23 digs across seven sets.
The volleyball teams are back in action on home court against the Seneca Sting on Wednesday, January 28 at 6/8 p.m.
This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy:
In celebration of Data Privacy Day, we are offering the next session in Privacy in Practice series, which is open to all employees.
What: Privacy in Practice: Security and Privacy Breaches (virtual session)
When: January 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
Description: This 30-minute talk will explore the differences between security and privacy breaches and highlight what to do if a breach is suspected.
Register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1980204349515?aff=oddtdtcreator
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
The annual varsity Esports Battle for the Belt competition between Durham College and Ontario Tech scheduled for Monday, January 26 has been postponed, with a new esports event set to take its place on campus that day.
In partnership with the Durham College Student Association and the Ontario Tech Student Union, a drop-in EA Sports FC 26 King of the Hill-style event will be held from 1-4 p.m. at the DCSA Student Centre's Esports Arena.
The King of the Hill format will see players compete head-to-head, with the winner staying on to defend their spot on the throne. Each consecutive win brings additional prizes, rewarding players who can string together multiple victories throughout the afternoon.
No sign-up is required, and participants are encouraged to drop in at any point during the event window to compete. The event is open to all Durham College and Ontario Tech students, whether they are experienced players or simply looking to take part in a fun, competitive campus activity.
Students interested in participating can head directly to the DCSA Esports Arena on January 26 to join the action. More information regarding the rescheduled Battle for the Belt will be shared at a later date.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
After being announced as one of Durham College's two athletes of the week on January 12, the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) named Evan Brown a provincial athlete of the week on January 13, and the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) awarded him national player of the week honours on January 14.
The CCAA Athlete of the Week honour recognizes outstanding individual performances from student-athletes across the country. Awarded weekly during the competitive season, it highlights athletes who excel through in-play results, leadership and sportsmanship while representing their institution at the national level. Being named a CCAA Athlete of the Week places a student-athlete among the top performers in Canadian collegiate sport for that week.
Brown, a Crane Operation, Rigging & Construction Techniques student, threw third rocks at the Mountaineers Bonspiel over the weekend and played a key role in leading the Lords to a 2-1 record and a tie for first-place at the event. Brown combined excellent shot-making with powerful sweeping throughout the weekend, consistently putting his team in strong positions. His positive attitude, competitive drive, and unwavering support of his teammates were instrumental to the team's success, highlighted by an 8-7 victory over the reigning OCAA silver medallists.
Congratulations, Evan!
This message is shared on behalf of Lisa Allen, Chair, Board of Governors. Please direct any questions to Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy, Office of the President.
Durham College (DC) is looking for four engaged, skilled, and community-minded individuals to join the Board of Governors starting September 1, 2026, for a three-year term.
The Board of Governors plays a vital role in shaping the college's strategic direction — transforming lives, building careers, and enriching communities. This is a meaningful opportunity for community members to share their skills, give back, and help shape post-secondary education in Durham Region and beyond.
The Board is seeking candidates with experience in:
Accounting/finance (CPA designation preferred)
Agriculture
Artificial intelligence/information technology
Defense/security
Energy
Community services
Human resources/labour relations
Key responsibilities:
Setting the college's vision, strategic direction, and long-term goals in alignment with government policy, legislation, and community needs.
Providing effective governance and oversight to ensure strong accountability, performance, and achievement of institutional outcomes.
Hiring, supporting, and evaluating the President, and delegating operational authority while holding leadership accountable for results.
Approving the college's annual business plan, budget, and annual report, and monitoring progress against approved goals.
Regularly assessing organizational and board effectiveness and taking corrective action when required.
Participating in six Board meetings per year (in person) and serving on at least one committee; committee meetings are typically held virtually.
Attending key college events, including Convocation and the annual Board retreat.
Two Governors will be appointed directly by the Board, and two will be appointed by the Province of Ontario through the Lieutenant Governor in Council (LGIC) public appointment process. All applications will be considered for both streams. While the Board may recommend candidates for LGIC appointments, the final decision rests with the Ontario provincial government. Current employees of any Ontario college of applied arts and technology are not eligible to apply.
Do you know someone ready to make an impact?
If you know a dynamic, creative individual with a passion for education and community impact, please encourage them to complete the online application and submit a resumé and cover letter by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026. DC welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including those from equity-seeking groups.
The Nominating Committee will hold in-person interviews on Monday, March 16 and Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Oshawa Campus.
Visit www.durhamcollege.ca/bog/vacancies to learn more about this opportunity and the application process.
[This message is sent on behalf of Dandan Shi, Manager, International Student Support and Engagement (Interim). If you have questions, please email her at dandan.shi@durhamcollege.ca.]
Visit the International Education (IE) office's Linktree to find out about upcoming projects and events. News and engagement opportunities include:
The Welcome to Canada Winter Wonderland session, offered in person, is for all international students starting a DC program in January 2026. Whether they're new to DC, or they're starting another program at DC, this session is for them! We'll meet in the CFCE courtyard at Oshawa campus on January 7 at 4PM to welcome all new international students to DC. Registration link can be found on our Linktree.
For international students who missed the Arrive in Canada virtual workshop on understanding their health insurance, we'll be hosting an in-person international student health insurance drop-in session this Friday between 11AM and 1PM on the main floor of SSB, Oshawa campus. Students will meet with colleagues from DCSA and their health insurance provider StudentVIP for any questions they may have. No pre-registration is needed. Please help spread the word!
Be sure to follow the IE office on Instagram/Facebook @durhamcollegeinternational for more information.
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President, Durham College.
Dear colleagues,
I am sad to share with you that Cameron Charters, a second-year student in the Fitness and Health Promotion program, passed away on December 11.
In honour of Cameron's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered for 24 hours. Please join me in holding Cameron's family and friends in your thoughts during this extremely difficult time.
If you would like to view the tribute, please visit the Low & Low Limited website.
Counselling and support are available for employees through Homewood Health. Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-800-663-1142 or at www.homeweb.ca (registration details are available online).
To support students, the following resources are available:
I.M. Well Student Assistance Program (24/7): 1-833-398-9040
Good2Talk Helpline (24/7): 1-866-925-5454
Durham College Student Association – Support Hub: DCSA.SupportHub@durhamcollege.ca or Support Hub
Campus Health and Wellness Centre: 905-721-3037, CHWC@durhamcollege.ca or CHWC
First Peoples Indigenous Centre: indigenous@durhamcollege.ca
Access and Support Centre: ASC@durhamcollege.ca
Additional campus and community resources are available online at Are You Ok?
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Come out to the CRWC and participate in our Durham College/Ontario Tech Staff & Faculty Pickleball Days.
Staff & Faculty Pickleball Days Schedule – Drop in - no sign-up/membership required, equipment provided.
Schedule subject to change throughout the semester. Download the DCOT Campus Rec App for the up-to-date gym schedules.
Lunch Break Pickleball
Jan. 7: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Jan. 14: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Jan. 20: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)
Jan. 28: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Feb. 3: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
Feb. 11: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Feb. 18: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Feb. 25: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
March 4: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
March 11: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5)
March 18: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
March 24: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
March 31: 11am – 1pm (Gym 5) & 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
April 8: 11am – 1pm (Gym 3)
Pickleball Unwind Hour
Jan. 13: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)
Jan. 27: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
Feb. 10: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
Feb. 17: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 3)
Feb. 24: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
March 10: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
March 17: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
April 7: 4pm – 5pm (Gym 5)
This message is being sent on behalf of Melissa Pringle, Manager, Board Governance and Privacy.
Are you interested in learning more about Durham College's Board of Governors — or considering putting your name forward in an upcoming Internal Governor election? Join us for an upcoming virtual session designed for employees who want to better understand the role, responsibilities, and experience of serving as an Internal Governor.
Hear directly from current Internal Governors – Kelly Doyle, Administrative Staff Governor; Melissa Bosomworth, Support Staff Governor; and Nathan Wilson, Academic Staff Governor – as they share insights, experiences, and reflections from their time on the Board, along with an inside look at what the role involves.
The session will also highlight key information about the upcoming Administrative Staff Governor election launching in February 2026.
Wednesday, January 21
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Virtual
Register now and you will be sent the link to attend.
This message is being shared on behalf of Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. Please direct any questions to Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations.
Do you know a Durham College (DC) graduate who is making an impact in their field or creating change in their community? Consider nominating them for the 2026 Alumni of Distinction Award.
Recipients are selected based on professional, community and personal accomplishments and the scope of their impact, as well as their contributions to the advancement of DC.
The nomination form is available online at durhamcollege.ca/alumniofdistinction and must be submitted to alumni@durhamcollege.ca before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6.
Please note: Active DC employees, active members of DC Board of Governors and DC Alumni Association Board of Directors are not eligible to be nominated for an Alumni of Distinction Award.
This message is being shared on behalf of Keith Bent, Deputy Registrar, Office of the Registrar.
I am pleased to announce that David Ragona will join Durham College's (DC) Office of the Registrar as Director, Reporting and Student Information Systems, effective Monday, January 26.
David brings an extensive background in registrarial operations, student information systems, reporting, and policy implementations, as well as experience in leading operational teams and advancing system and process improvements. Most recently at Mohawk College, David held leadership roles within the Registrar's Office, overseeing registration, records, scheduling, graduation, curriculum management, operations and service enhancement functions, while leading and participating in major system and service modernization initiatives.
David holds a Master of Business Administration, an Honours Bachelor of Commerce, and has completed a number of professional development courses in business analytics, change management, and enterprise design principles.
Please join me in congratulating David on his new role and welcoming him to DC.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Department of Athletics & Recreation.
Kira Hayes and Evan Brown of the varsity curling teams have been named the Durham College student-athletes of the week for the period ending January 11, 2026.
Hayes, a Video Production student, competed with determination and poise, delivering a strong all-around performance while supporting her teammates in every end. Her relentless sweeping and clear, effective communication helped keep the team focused and composed through three challenging games. Her positive attitude and steady presence kept her teammates grounded and on track all day long.
Brown, a Crane Operation, Rigging & Construction Techniques student, threw third rocks at the Mountaineers Bonspiel over the weekend and played a key role in leading the Lords to a 2-1 record and a tie for first-place at the event. Brown combined excellent shot-making with powerful sweeping throughout the weekend, consistently putting his team in strong positions. His positive attitude, competitive drive, and unwavering support of his teammates were instrumental to the team’s success, highlighted by an 8-7 victory over the reigning OCAA silver medallists.
The curling teams will spend the month training as they prepare for the 2026 OCAA Curling Championships at the Dixie Curling Centre in Mississauga.
This message is being shared on behalf of the Centre for Teaching & Learning (CTL). Please direct any inquiries to Jonelle Arendoque, Multimedia & Digital Project Lead in the CTL, at jonelle.arendoque@durhamcollege.ca.
The CTL Compass Express is a digital newsletter, shared exclusively on ICE, from the Centre for Teaching & Learning. Similar to the CTL Compass, the Express is tailored for DC faculty members and academic staff but is delivered as a just-in-time resource throughout the academic year!
Student painting on an easel in an art studio.
Winter Semester ❄️ January 2026
Welcome Back 👋🏼
We hope your holiday break was both restful and rejuvenating. As you step into a new academic semester, celebrate the incredible energy, expertise, and commitment you bring to our learning community. Your efforts make a profound difference in shaping authentic and meaningful learning experiences for our students, and we’re excited to continue working together to advance excellence in teaching and learning.
This semester brings new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and inspire. Thank you for all that you do—wishing you a successful and rewarding term ahead!
AI-Generated photo of Amanda Maknyk.
Amanda Maknyik
Dean, Teaching, Learning & Academic Quality / Centre for Teaching & Learning
In this issue
ICE HIGHLIGHTS
BodySwaps 3.0 Updates / Limited Licenses for Fall & Winter
CTL Launches Braiding Learning Framework and New Faculty Micro-credentials
ALL ABOUT TEACHING & LEARNING
How to add Course Outlines in DC Connect
Email a Copy of an Announcement to Your Classlist
Meaningful Land Acknowledgements
WHAT'S NEW?
Simplify Student Appointments using Microsoft Bookings
Strategies for Encouraging Student Engagement
Applying Active Learning to Your Course Content
UPCOMING CTL-HOSTED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSIONS
DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements
Creating Course Materials with Adobe Express
5 – or more – Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Can Do with DC’s Office 365 Tools
💻 All about Teaching & Learning
How to add Course Outlines in DC Connect
Email a Copy of an Announcement to Your Classlist
Professors can now choose to send a copy of an announcement to all users in their Classlist as an email, sent as if from the professor themselves.
When creating or editing an announcement, a new Send email copy checkbox now appears below the Content field:
Screenshot of text area in DC Connect.
Meaningful Land Acknowledgements
At the start of the semester a great way to add an act of Reconciliation into your course is with a meaningful Land Acknowledgement!
Start with the Durham College Land Acknowledgment. From there, make it meaningful, and personalized.
A few quick tips to make your Land Acknowledgment meaningful and to avoid tokenism is to:
Add a positionality statement and what your purpose with the Land Acknowledgment is.
Include what you know, what you don’t know, and what you would like to learn.
Your commitment to your ongoing education of Indigenous histories and reconciliation (ensure its actionable!).
Want to add it as a page in your DC Connect?
💡 Tip
Don’t forget to personalize the template too!
✅ Learn More
To learn more visit Acknowledging the Land - First Peoples Indigenous Centre or join the CTL’s Asynchronous Land Acknowledgment training “Roots of Recognition” by searching “Faculty PD: Indigenous Perspectives for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment” in the Self-Registration Courses.
🆕 What's New
Simplify Student Appointments using Microsoft Bookings
Would you like to meet with students, but find the process of scheduling meetings tiring? Consider using Microsoft Bookings and have students select and book times based on your schedule!
Microsoft Bookings is included with your suite Microsoft Office apps and features available through your DC account. It creates a unique link for you to provide to students. The best part is you can set the available times where students can schedule a meeting - ensuring you don't have conflicts. No longer will you have to email back and forth about potential meeting times.
Microsoft Bookings can be accessed from the list of apps in both OneDrive or Microsoft Teams. From here you can set up your own personal booking link which can be shared in your email signature, or on DC Connect.
✅ Learn More
To learn more about Bookings, you can check out this resource from Microsoft, or see this step-by-step guide from Lesley University.
Strategies for Encouraging Student Engagement
Engaging students is an important component of your course, sometimes more so than the content. If you have an engaging presence and class, students will be more willing to learn the 'boring' stuff. A recent Blog from TopHat explores 34 strategies for engaging students, organized into specific categories for you to explore based on your needs.
If you're just getting started in class, and want to bring in some ice breakers to start building community, consider creating an H5P scavenger hunt! This activity:
Gets students reading and interacting with the course outline
Can be used as a small assessment (when combined with an assignment folder in DC Connect) or a connection activity
Helps students locate due dates and navigate the learning plan
The course outline scavenger hunt is a fun, low-effort way to boost engagement while helping students stay organized in your class.
Applying Active Learning to Your Course Content
Active learning approaches require students to engage with the course content and become participants in their learning process. The CTL has published new and updated active learning strategies to help promote student engagement including adjustments for students with exceptionalities and general wise inclusive practices. Check out the website for some ideas you can use across classes of all sizes!
🎓 Upcoming CTL-Hosted Professional Development Sessions
DC Connect: Using our Advanced Interactive Elements
January 15, 1 to 2 p.m. on Microsoft Teams
Explore how to use and customize existing interactive elements without html, including adding an interactive quiz tool for formative assessment directly within content pages.
Note: This session builds on the Using DC Connect Templates and Using DC Connect Templates Drop-In sessions. It is recommended for faculty who have already attended one of those sessions.
Creating Course Materials with Adobe Express
January 27, 2 to 3 p.m. on Microsoft Teams
DC now offers licenses for Adobe Express! This software is similar to Canva and a powerful tool in your teaching toolkit. Create content for your courses in the form of an infographic - perfect for a connection or summary activity in your DC Connect to promote engagement with your students.
Note: Please come to the session with Adobe Express account ready to use - connect with Service Desk, if required - and content you would like to summarize in an infographic together.
5 – or more – Things You Probably Didn’t Know You Can Do with DC’s Office 365 Tools
January 29, 10 to 11 a.m. on Microsoft Teams
Explore features like auto captions, live translations, email summaries, audio transcription, and Presenter Coach—all without Gen AI!
📌 Looking for more personalized support? We’re here to help!
We encourage you to book a meeting with a member of our team through Microsoft Bookings.
📣 Stay tuned for the February issue of the CTL Compass next month!
From January 18 to January 23, DC students are invited to take part in opportunities to recharge, connect, and focus on their well-being. Select activities are also open to employees, including fitness classes, a guided health hike and our keynote speaker presentation.
On Bell Let's Talk Day, the Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC), in partnership with the Durham College Student Association (DCSA), will welcome mental health advocate Sam Demma for a keynote presentation in Gyms 3 and 4. Sam's message centres on empathy, hope, and mental health, inviting participants to reflect on how everyday thoughts and actions can foster greater kindness and connection. The event is open to all members of the campus community and will also feature resource tables hosted by departments from across DC.
Faculty and coaches are encouraged to share this opportunity with their students, helping them engage in this important conversation on mental health. Register here for the event.
Explore the full schedule of Wellness Week events online. Additional supports and services are also available through the Wellness Directory, Are You Okay? webpage, and ICE, offering resources to help you prioritize your own well-being while continuing to support DC students.
Thank you for helping foster a healthy, supportive, and people-centred campus community.
To ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices, please follow the established procurement and documentation requirements outlined below:
Requisition Approval Requirements All requisitions for the procurement of goods and non‑consulting services must receive approval from the appropriate authority in accordance with the organization's Schedule of Authority before any work begins.
Purchase Order Procedures When a purchase order (PO) is required, a requisition must be fully created and approved prior to ordering any goods or services. This step is essential to maintain compliance and proper financial controls.
Invoice Submission Standards Invoices related to an approved purchase order must clearly reference the corresponding PO number. Please ensure this information is included on all invoice documents submitted to Accounts Payable to avoid delays in processing.
Any questions, please contact Norah Warmuth, Manager of Accounting
This message is being shared on behalf of Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. Please email any questions to careerdevelopment@durhamcollege.ca.
Whether they're looking to embark on a career or find a summer job, we're helping students to connect with employers at Job Fair 2026 in February.
Please encourage students to mark their calendars and keep up-to-date by following @GetHiredDC on Instagram, using #GetHiredDC on social media or visiting the Hired Portal.
Durham College and Ontario Tech University Job Fair – Oshawa Campus
Thursday, February 5, 2026
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre (Gyms 3, 4 and 5)
Durham College Job Fair – Whitby Campus
Thursday, February 12, 2026
9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Don Lovisa Building (Atrium and Hallway)
This message is sent on behalf of Elaine Popp, President.
Dear colleagues,
I want to share with you that Dr. Elder Shirley Williams passed on December 19 and will be deeply missed.
Elder Shirley has been a valuable member of the Durham College (DC) community since 2012, offering guidance rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing. She was deeply committed to supporting Indigenous learners and strengthening understanding across educational spaces and her teachings continue to shape who we are at DC.
Elder Shirley was instrumental in the creation of Suswaaning Endaajig or the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC), a dedicated and welcoming space that supports Indigenous learners through cultural connection, community, and care. She also gifted the outdoor gathering space located next to the Centre for Collaborative Education its Anishinaabemowin name, Naanaagide'endamowin (The Art of Thinking) Courtyard.
We are grateful for the time, teachings, and spirit Elder Shirley shared with us and we commit to carrying her teachings forward in our work and relationships. To honour Elder Shirley's life, the DC-branded flags at the Oshawa and Whitby campuses will be lowered to half-mast for 24 hours. Please join me in thinking of Elder Shirley's family and friends during this difficult time.
Read more about her life and legacy at the Island Funeral Home website.
Counselling and support are available for the DC community through TELUS Health (formerly LifeWorks). Their services are accessible anytime by phone at 1-844-880-9142, TTY Service at 1-877-338-0275, or www.workhealthlife.com.
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 - 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.
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.
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.