Whitby, Ont. - DaimlerChrysler Canada today announced the donation of a two-acre parcel of land to Durham College's Skills Training Centre. The Whitby property lies directly between the centre and the Menzies Chrysler dealership.
"Although DaimlerChrysler is a global company with manufacturing facilities in 37 countries and products sold in more than 200 countries, we remain committed to supporting the communities in which our employees and retailers live," said Bob Renaud, vice-president, public and government affairs, at DaimlerChrysler Canada. "We recognize excellence in education as a key factor in building a strong economy for our children in the future."
"Much of our college's success hinges on strong relationships with our colleagues in business and industry," said Gary Polonsky, president of Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology. "We are extremely grateful for this generous gift from DaimlerChrysler Canada."
The Skills Training Centre is home to Durham College's skilled trades, apprenticeship and specialty programs. Opened in 1993, the centre underwent a significant expansion and renovation in 2000-01. The centre serves approximately 500 full-time postsecondary students and 1,000 apprentices, as well as several thousand individuals pursuing career-related training.
About DaimlerChrysler Canada
DaimlerChrysler Canada markets Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep® vehicles through its network of approximately 550 dealers across the country. DaimlerChrysler Canada is the third largest vehicle manufacturer in Canada including three manufacturing facilities and two component operations. In addition to its manufacturing facilities, DaimlerChrysler Canada has offices throughout the country, dedicated to supporting the sales, service and marketing of its products.
About Durham College
The top student-rated college in the Greater Toronto Area for four years in a row, Durham College offers more than 70 career-focused programs in applied sciences, business, communication arts, design, health, human studies, integrated studies, justice studies, technology, skilled trades and apprenticeships. Canada's newest university-The University of Ontario Institute of Technology-is being built at the college's Oshawa campus. As well, the college is home to the world-class Skills Training Centre, and nearly 90 per cent of Durham postsecondary graduates are employed in six months or less after graduation. For more information, visit the Web site at www.durhamcollege.ca.
From left:
Todd Menzies, Menzies Chrysler
Gordon Lowrie, DaimlerChrysler Canada
David Provencal, student, Automotive Technician Service Management program
Gary Polonsky, President, Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology
Marcel Brunelle, Mayor, Town of Whitby
The Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Enterprise, Opportunity & Innovation
Bev Balenko, Vice-President, Business & Skills Development, Durham College
Bob Strickert, Chair, Board of Governors, Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology
Bob Renaud, Vice-President, Public and Government Affairs, DaimlerChrysler Canada
Media contact:
Kerrey Kerr, DaimlerChrysler Canada
519-561-9571
Alice Lytwynchuk, Durham College
905-721-3111, ext. 2117
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