Durham College Community Integration Through Co-operative Education (CICE) student Karina Scali received a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal on Friday, October 19, for voluntary service to Canada. The Diamond Jubilee Medal honours significant contributions by Canadians whose achievements have benefited their fellow citizens, community and Canada.

“I am so proud and honoured to be selected by the nomination committee. I can’t believe it! It means so much to me,” exclaimed Scali. “My parents always encouraged me to give back any way that I could.  I am truly blessed.”

Scali’s volunteer work includes working with pre-school and Kindergarten children, developing a play-based curriculum for children, assisting at the YMCA children’s summer camp, Halton Region’s Children’s Water Festival and Evangel Pentecostal church. Her fundraising contributions have helped build a school in Kenya, an orphanage in Africa and have supported children in their battle with cancer.  

She continues to dedicate herself to improving the lives of those around her through her selfless volunteering and positive contributions to the college and surrounding area according to Kevin Baker, Dean, School of Interdisciplinary Studies & Employment Services at Durham College.

“We are so proud of Karina! This recognition of her contributions to the Durham College family and the broader community are an inspiration to us all. I want to wish her continued success both in and outside of the classroom,” said Baker.