Board of Governors’ biographies

Peter Pryce is Chair of the Durham College Board of Governors and the Senior Operations Manager of Lakeside Performance Gas Services.

Peter was raised in the Toronto area and relocated to the Durham Region in the early nineties, where he raised two sons with his wife, Sheryl.

Peter's career in the pipe trades led him to his current position as Senior Operations Manager for a large natural gas utility contractor. In this role, he is heavily involved in planning and executing large natural gas projects throughout Ontario. Peter prides himself on having a thorough knowledge of the industry and the codes and procedures that govern it. With a background in training, Peter enjoys working with new and younger workers coming into the trade whenever he gets the opportunity.

Peter now resides with his wife in the Ashburn area of Whitby, where they enjoy taking care of their home and gardens and travelling to warmer climates when they can.

Abigail Ansell is the elected student governor on the Board of Governors.

Abigail is a student in Durham College's Sport Management program with a strong background in health, wellness, leadership, and athletics. A graduate of the Fitness and Health Promotion program, Abigail is also a former varsity basketball athlete who understands firsthand the discipline, teamwork, resilience, and dedication required to succeed in both sport and academics. These experiences have shaped her collaborative leadership style and commitment to excellence.

Through Durham College's Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) opportunities, Abigail has gained valuable hands-on experience as a lab technician and research assistant, contributing to applied research projects with real-world impact. Her work has included supporting firefighter training simulations designed to assess physiological responses under stressful conditions, helping to advance research that supports health, safety, and performance.

Passionate about community health, advocacy, and wellness promotion, Abigail has volunteered on initiatives supporting seniors, mentored youth, and contributed to fundraising efforts for health-focused organizations. She is dedicated to creating positive change through service and supporting the well-being of others both on campus and in the broader community.

In recognition of her outstanding leadership, service, and academic achievement, Abigail has received the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Gold Award for Student Leadership Excellence, the Ken Babcock Award of Excellence, and OCAA/CCAA All Academic honours. As Student Governor, Abigail is committed to representing the student voice, supporting student success, and contributing to the continued growth and success of Durham College.

Brandon Bird is the Chief Executive Officer of Bird Infrastructure Ltd. and a licensed Red Seal Plumber. As a true visionary, Brandon has managed the acquisition of several industry-related companies that have supported the expansion of the company’s service offerings. Brandon has also expanded the business’ footprint into Nova Scotia and the Atlantic Canada Region. His primary objective is to transition the company into new markets while reinforcing Bird Infrastructure as a niche service provider in a highly specialized industry. Brandon continues to build trusted relationships with industry key partners and stakeholders. Additionally, he works closely with skilled trades and colleges to provide support to a variety of philanthropic and industry-strengthening initiatives that benefit the entire construction industry.

Brandon is the recipient of the Alumni of Distinction Award from Durham College. Additionally, he is a Premier’s Award Nominee and was named one of the Top 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction in 2023.

Julie Corden is a partner with Deloitte Canada and is the National Audit Excellence Leader and Quality Management Leader.

In these roles, Julie provides leadership on audit and assurance technical matters, oversees audit methodology, and supports the implementation of quality management standards across the firm.

Before these national leadership responsibilities, Julie was a member of Deloitte's Public Sector Audit practice, working with a diverse range of organizations, including colleges, hospitals, municipalities, and not-for-profit organizations. Her extensive experience in the public sector has provided her with deep insight into governance, accountability, risk management, and financial stewardship.

Julie has also made significant contributions to the accounting and auditing profession through her service on national and international standard-setting bodies. From 2019 to 2024, she served as a Board Member of the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB), helping to develop International Auditing Standards used around the world and serving as the foundation for Canadian auditing standards. Before this appointment, she served for three years on Canada's Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. She also served for four years as a Board Member and Audit Committee Chair of the Central Community Care Access Centre.

Earlier in her career, Julie spent six years in the Corporate Finance group at EDS Canada Inc., building a strong foundation in finance, business operations, and strategic analysis.

A graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University, Julie earned her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation in 1999 and was awarded the Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant (FCPA) designation in 2022 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the profession and her leadership within the accounting community.

John Blazanin is the Senior Vice President, Enterprise Projects at Ontario Power Generation.

John is a senior executive in the energy sector with nearly four decades of leadership experience in finance, project management, and the delivery of complex infrastructure initiatives. Throughout his career at Ontario Power Generation (OPG), he has led high-impact strategic projects that have strengthened organizational performance, enhanced accountability, and delivered long-term value for customers, communities, and stakeholders. He is recognized for building collaborative, inclusive teams and for bringing clarity and sound judgment to decisions involving significant risk, capital investment, and public interest.

One of John's notable achievements was the design and implementation of a Project Management Office that earned international recognition for its innovation and effectiveness, improving project governance, planning discipline, and delivery outcomes across the organization. Most recently, he led a high-performing team that secured approval to extend the operating life of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, a critical infrastructure initiative for both OPG and the Province of Ontario.

John is passionate about developing future leaders and fostering strong connections between education and industry. He values opportunities to contribute to organizations that serve the public good and is committed to helping create pathways for student success, workforce development, and community impact.

Melissa Bosomworth is the elected support staff member on the Board of Governors.

With her experience working in the fast-paced, ever-changing public sector, Melissa joined Durham College after working 14 years in health and mental health care settings. Since joining Durham College, she earned a Master of Arts in education with a focus on community colleges. Additionally, she earned an International Coaching Federation designation to help her further support student success. Melissa has been instrumental on several committees, including the Student Code of Conduct, Social Justice and Strategic Planning. Further, she has co-chaired a committee that included colleges from across Canada. As an advocate for well-being, Melissa enjoys outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, and homesteading.

Alison Burgess is the Director of Communications and Engagement at the Region of Durham, where she oversees corporate communications, government relations, and community engagement. Before joining the Region, Alison worked in the academic sector, managing research partnerships at Ontario Tech University and teaching at Durham College. Her academic interests stem from previous experience at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and her PhD studies in neuroscience. This diverse background provides Alison with a unique perspective on her work.

Alison is known for her dedication to fostering meaningful connections between people and organizations. She has been instrumental in leading initiatives that enhance engagement in regional projects. Her leadership of Durham's Intelligent Communities projects is a testament to her commitment to innovation and community development.

In her personal life, Alison enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering in her community.

Jeff Dornan is an accomplished entrepreneur and innovator in the craft beverage industry, with extensive experience in craft brewing.

Together with his business partner Eric Dornan, they have built a boutique group of companies in the sector over the past nine years, through a combination of self-creation and acquisition. Their companies are dedicated to aggressive growth and innovation in the craft alcohol space.

Jeff's contributions to the industry include serving as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Ontario Craft Brewers Association. The association represents the craft brewing industry in Ontario and has been instrumental in promoting the industry and its contributions to the Ontario economy. Through his role as Chair, Jeff has been able to make a significant impact in advancing the interests of craft brewers across the province.

In addition to his work with the Ontario Craft Brewers Association, Jeff is also the Co-Founder of All or Nothing Brewhouse, based in Oshawa, Ontario. He has been with the company since its inception in 2014 and has played a key role in driving its success.

Jeff's education includes a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Ontario Tech and a business diploma from Durham College.

John Ecker of Whitby is the Durham College Board of Governors Vice Chair and a semi-retired communications, marketing, branding and fundraising executive. Most recently, he served as the Director, Family of Faith & Special Projects at the Archdiocese of Toronto, where he led Indigenous healing and reconciliation activities. In 2022, he was the Program and Production Lead for the Pope’s visit to Iqaluit, Nunavut. He also oversaw brand development and marketing for the archdiocese’s Family of Faith Campaign and led the strategic re-positioning of the archdiocese’s Office for Refugees. Previously, he served as Vice President at Indspire (the former National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation) and held director-level positions at the Ontario Trillium Foundation, ECHO: Improving Women’s Health in Ontario, and the Toronto Board of Trade.

He serves as Chair of the Ontario Heritage Trust, the province’s heritage agency that preserves, protects and promotes Ontario’s built, natural and cultural heritage. He is a provincial government appointee to the Board of the Durham Regional Police Service. He is a Board member of the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund. Ecker previously served on the Board of Credit Canada and was chair of the Whitby Public Library Board, the Waterview Child Care Centre the Lynde Marsh Alliance, and Heritage Whitby (LACAC). Internationally, he established Bimini Bound, which sent over 10,000 books and learning resources to schools on the island of Bimini, Bahamas.

In 2022, he was awarded a Papal Medal from Pope Francis for his work on the Papal Visit. In 2025, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario recognized Ecker’s service to his community, Ontario and Canada when she presented him with the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

He received his Photography Diploma from Fanshawe College in London and his BA in Political Science from the University of Waterloo.

Rhonda Jessup is the Chief Executive Officer at the Whitby Public Library.

At the Whitby Public Library, Rhonda provides strategic leadership and operational direction with a focus on excellence, innovation, and community engagement. With over 30 years of professional library experience, including 25 years in senior management, she has a strong background in strategic planning, financial stewardship, advocacy, governance, staff development, and capital projects. Rhonda is an avid reader and a dedicated lifelong learner, passionate about sharing her knowledge with others. She tutors students in the Ontario Library Service's Community Outreach in the Public Library course, where she also recently updated the course material to reflect current trends and practices. Rhonda has contributed to numerous committees and recently served on the Board of the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington. In addition to her role at the library, she serves as Vice-Chair of the Chief Executives of Large Urban Public Libraries and is a member of the Community Liaison Committee for 1635 Dundas. She holds a Masters Degree in Library Science from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and English from Trent University. Rhonda lives in Blackstock with her family.

Dr. Elaine Popp is an impactful, proven and strategic post-secondary leader. With 25 years of successful and progressive post-secondary sector experience, she started her role as President of Durham College (DC) in March 2024.

Prior to serving as President, Dr. Popp led DC’s core business of teaching and learning as Executive Vice President, Academic, for more than eight years. During this time, she skillfully demonstrated her passion for student success and her rare ability to leverage higher education's emergent trends to create relevant programs meeting student needs and anticipating industry expectations.

Leading DC's high-performing teams, Dr. Popp spearheaded the launch of several successful strategic frameworks, including the Academic Plan, Enrolment Management Plan, Internationalization and Global Engagement Plan and the five-year New Program Development Plan, emphasizing how she leverages the importance of systems thinking, effective planning and thoughtful resource management.

Under Dr. Popp’s strategic leadership, with her teams, she has launched over 50 academic programs, including six degrees, to reflect our changing world, introduced new work-integrated learning opportunities, established five applied research centres supporting DC’s recognition as one of Canada’s Top Research Colleges and thoughtfully and intentionally focused on strategic enrolment management.

As a testament to her in-demand leadership and deep roots in the college sector, Dr. Popp served as Vice-Chair of the Coordinating Committee of Vice-Presidents, Academic (CCVPA), member of the executive committees for CCVPA and the Coordinating Committee of Vice-Presidents, International (CCVPI) and the College of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT) Coordinating Committee. She is currently a member of the Chair Academy Advisory Board. Dr. Popp has also contributed provincially by serving on the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association, Ontario Colleges Library Services, Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer, and the Ontario College Quality Assurance Service Boards for the maximum terms.

A proven lifelong learner and distinguished academic, Dr. Popp holds a Doctor of Philosophy and a Bachelor of Science, Honours Biology and Kinesiology from York University.

Kwende Thomas is the senior counsel at TD Bank Group and practices in the areas of estate, trusts, elder and capacity law. He focuses extensively on the law of personal and court-appointed substitute decision making and as well as supportive decision-making. His practice includes advising on planning for high net-worth estates, estate and trust administration and the preparation of wills, trusts and other estate planning documents. Kwende is a Trust and Estate Practitioner and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners. Kwende serves as a mentor for the Toronto Metropolitan University’s Law Practice Program.

Additionally, Kwende demonstrates leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives by actively volunteering for Black and 2SLGBTQ+ causes. At TD, he volunteers on the TD Legal Black Experience Group as well as the enterprise subcommittee which focuses on the intersection of Black and 2SLGBTQ+ colleague experience. He serves as President of the Board of Directors for Fife House Foundation, the largest provider of supportive housing and services for individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS in Toronto. He is passionate about wellness and has served as TD Legal Department's first Well-Being Ambassador, through which he has elevated the importance of self-care, and mindfulness and supported TD's culture of care. Kwende's leadership in the wellness space was recognized when he won the 2023 Canadian Corporate Counsel Association (CCCA) Mondaq Employee Wellness Initiative of the Year Award.

Dwight Townsend is the Principal Director of Gomedics Health, a medical transport and health services company.

Dwight is a consultative leader with a successful track record in managing health care strategies and stakeholder engagements across primary, community, and regulatory health care sectors. Directing one of Ontario's first provincial health strategies, Dwight served as Deputy Registrar at the College of Dental Technologists of Ontario and has worked in senior management in Toronto's teaching hospitals.

Dwight's scholarship focuses on health and Afrocentric education. He consults on Board governance, curriculum development, and education engagement as it pertains to racialization, diversity and inclusion. Dwight is also the Founder and Chair of The Health Research Council for People of African Descent in recognition of the Decade for People of African Descent. He holds a Bachelor of Health Studies degree from York University; Masters of Leadership & Interdisciplinary Studies, Royal Roads University; and a Masters of Law at Osgoode Hall Law School.

A husband and father, he provides education mentorship to at-risk youth and enjoys bringing external industry and sector-specific opportunities into the academic space.

Tanya Wakelin is the elected administrative staff member on the Durham College Board of Governors.

Tanya serves as Director of Teaching and Learning at Durham College, where she provides strategic leadership for teaching excellence, digital learning, and faculty development. Over the past decade, she has held leadership positions within both Corporate Training Services and the Centre for Teaching and Learning. In recognition of her contributions to the College, Tanya received Durham College's Employee of the Year Award (Administration) in 2024. She has also advanced key institutional priorities through her leadership as Chair of the Digital Learning Steering Committee, Co-Chair of the Accessibility Coordinating Committee, and Co-Lead of the 2024 Generative AI (GenAI) Taskforce.

A respected leader within Ontario's post-secondary sector, Tanya served as the elected Executive Chair of the Educational Technology Committee from 2023 to 2025, representing all 24 Ontario colleges. In this role, she championed collaboration, innovation, and the strategic use of educational technology to support student success across the province.

Tanya has also contributed to Durham College's international impact. She led a Colleges and Institutes Canada-funded project aimed at strengthening online teaching and learning capacity across six Caribbean countries, helping to enhance educational outcomes and further establish Durham College's reputation as a leader in digital learning and innovation.

Before joining Durham College, Tanya worked in the private sector, overseeing the development and delivery of online education programs across Canada and the United States. Her work focused on ensuring program quality, regulatory compliance, and positive learner experiences.

Tanya holds a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership with a specialization in Systems Thinking from Royal Roads University, a Bachelor of Education from Queen's University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Trent University. She also holds a College Teaching Certificate from Durham College and a Master's Certificate in Project Management from York University. Her extensive experience in education, leadership, and innovation continues to support student success and institutional excellence at Durham College.