Durham College (DC) proudly celebrated as more than 3,700 students walked across the stage to receive their credential during the 2017 Spring Convocation ceremonies. Whether beginning their career or pursuing further education, these individuals will continue their journey knowing they have the skills they need to succeed.

Held from June 12 to 14 at the Tribute Communities Centre in downtown Oshawa, graduates from the Centre for Food and schools of Business, IT & Management; Continuing Education, Health & Community Services; Interdisciplinary Studies; Justice & Emergency Services; Media, Art & Design; Science & Engineering Technology and Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology received their diplomas and certificates, cheered on by family, friends and college employees.

Guest speakers at each ceremony included DC alumni and its immediate past vice-president, Academic:

• Shelley Jones, lawyer and registered trademark agent and graduate of DC’s Legal Administration program;
• Rob Leth, Global News sports anchor and graduate of DC’s Journalism program;
• Judy Robinson, immediate past vice-president, Academic at DC;
• Brent Lessard, co-founder of the online think tank rLoop and graduate of DC’s Mechanical Engineering Technology program; and
• Nancy Shaw, CEO and general manager of the Oshawa Chamber of Commerce and graduate of DC’s Nursing Assistant program.

Emeritus Award

As part of the college’s commitment to building on its positive reputation, the outstanding contributions and exemplary service of retired faculty and staff members were recognized through the honorary designation of emeritus:

• Ben Kelly, a professor in the School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology received the title of professor emeritus; and
• Judy Robinson, immediate past vice-president, Academic received the title of vice-president emeritus.

Honorary Credential

DC also awarded its seventh honorary credential, a diploma in Community Development, to Edith Alger, during Tuesday afternoon’s ceremony. A long-standing Oshawa resident, Edith has volunteered with and financially supported many non-profit organizations focused on advancing education and improving access to healthcare in Durham Region, including DC.

Alumni of Distinction

Three past DC graduates also received Alumni of Distinction awards, in honour of the extraordinary contributions they have made to society while achieving career success:

• Richard Gauder – Marketing Administration, 1984;
• Joyce Hunter – Journalism – Print, 2003; and
• Brent Lessard – Mechanical Engineering Technology, 2014.

The full videos of each ceremony will also be posted later this month for those who missed the ceremony or want to relive the moment.