Sandra Kennedy and Jasmin Grewal, both first-year Pharmaceutical and Food Science Technology students, joined in the celebration during Durham College's 40th-anniversary festivities on Tuesday, September 18.
Durham College alumni and retirees received a warm welcome back to campus on September 18, as the college celebrated its 40th anniversary with a retrospective look at its tremendous growth over the last four decades and its ongoing commitment to the success of students and graduates.
"I am delighted to have so many of our alumni back on campus sharing this illustrious day in Durham College's history," said Leah Myers, president of Durham College. "I'm also honoured that the City of Oshawa has chosen to declare September 18 as Durham College Day. It's a strong affirmation of our connection with Oshawa and the role Durham College plays in the community."
Activities included a barbecue, speeches, tours, entertainment, and an alumni and retiree reception, while a particular highlight was Mayor John Gray reading the proclamation declaring September 18 to be Durham College Day. Alumni, retirees, former employees, business partners and community leaders took the opportunity to reunite with current students and staff.
"Durham College is a young school in comparison to many other post-secondary schools available. That's why I came here," said Jasmin Grewal, a first-year Pharmaceutical and Food Science Technology student. "It's a modern campus and it offers the program I wanted to take."
Plans are also under way by the Alumni Association to unveil an Alumni Wall of Distinction on Tuesday, October 23 and to host a Homecoming Weekend from May 2 to 4, along with other activities.
Durham College opened for studies on September 18, 1967 in 16 portable classrooms, employing a staff of 14 and serving 205 students.
"There is a generally positive atmosphere and the faculty and staff provide a great learning environment here," said Rob Thomas, a second-year Paramedic student.
Dr. Gordon Willey, Mel Garland, Dr. Gary Polonsky and Myers have all served as president of Durham College over its history, helping it grow to become the premier college in Canada for career-focused students who succeed in a challenging, supportive and inclusive learning environment.