Durham College has grown both in physical size and in students. Above, the Gordon Willey building, named for the college's first president, Dr. Gordon Willey, has grown immensely over the years.
It's been 40 years since Durham College first opened its doors for studies on September 18, 1967 in 16 portable classrooms with 205 students and 14 staff members. Four decades later, the college serves 6,100 full-time students, thousands of part-time students and more than 1,575 apprentices.
Durham College certainly has something to celebrate.
Business partners, college and community leaders, students, retirees and graduates, including one from Durham College's first-ever graduating class, will gather to reflect on the college's past and celebrate its future.
The yearlong 40th anniversary festivities are kicking off on Tuesday, September 18 with a barbecue, live music, speeches by college and community leaders and alumni, campus tours and an alumni and retiree reception. A special announcement will also be made by Oshawa Mayor John Gray.
The Alumni department is also unveiling an Alumni Wall of Distinction on Tuesday, October 23 to honour each of the college's Alumnus of Distinction award winners from previous years. In addition there will be a number of student- and alumni-focused events throughout the 2007-2008 academic year to recognize the accomplishments of the Durham College community. Capping off the celebrations will be a Homecoming Weekend planned for Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4.
Durham College has a rich history here in Durham Region. In May 1965, then-Ontario Education Minister Bill Davis introduced legislation to establish colleges of applied arts and technology across the province. On October 13, 1966, a volunteer Board of Governors for Durham College met for the first time and administrative offices were soon set up in The Bateman House, at 304 Simcoe Street North, a location that was provided by the Oshawa General Hospital. Before long, a permanent campus for the college was found when E.P. Taylor came forward and identified the southwest corner of Conlin and Simcoe streets as a suitable home.
The first academic calendar offered courses in applied arts, business and technology. The college has been led by four presidents, Dr. Gordon Willey, Mel Garland, Dr. Gary Polonsky and currently, Leah Myers.
Durham College has grown to become the premier college in Canada for career-focused students who succeed in a challenging, supportive and inclusive learning environment. Its programs are continually shaped by market needs and delivered by exceptional teachers with real-world experience and the college's vibrant campus community enriches the student life experience.