REFLECTIONS ISSUE 95 | SPRING 2019 A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Technology and Trades outside of the classroom. forward to all the exciting Conference from the Global In November, I was able to initiatives together Classroom. attend the Premier’s Awards The DCAA has been hard The DC Global Graduate Gala hosted by Colleges at work, and look forward Forum event showcased DC where we celebrated to continuing with outreach grads from three countries Ontario’s outstanding college programs, heading to the across the globe in real- graduates. This year our classroom to connect time as part of International nominees were Brandon Bird with students – our future Development Week where (2012), Manjula Selvarajah alumni, and connecting with they shared updates on their (2014) and Lorraine Sunstrum- businesses to help grow our careers and thoughts about Mann (1988) and it was an affinity program. We’ve made Sustainable Development honour to celebrate with these some wonderful connections Goals and how we can make outstanding DC alums their and our alumni never cease to a difference in our everyday success and contributions. amaze and impress! life. Young Women in Science, The Alumni We welcome your feedback Technology and Trades Association (DCAA) is here to and we hope that you will Conference hosted over 550 serve its members by listening stay connected with us, to girls in Grades 7 to 9 from to their voices throughout enjoy the many benefits Spring is an exciting time of several regional school boards the year and I am honoured that we offer. For the latest year, time for the nice weather, for a program of exploration to have been elected as the news and updates, please but time for many students to and inspiration aimed at incoming President. A huge connect with us on Twitter look forward to receiving their connecting young women with thanks to Elaine Garnett, our @Alumni_DC, follow us on credentials at convocation and careers in science, technology now past president, for all her Facebook www.facebook.com/ joining the more than 87 000 and skilled trades. hard work, efforts and support durhamcollegealumni and DC alumni. It was also my pleasure to the DC Alumni Association join us on LinkedIn Durham It was amazing to see the to present the first DCAA and community, you have left College Alumni (for students opening of the new Centre Leaders of the Future awards me very large shoes to fill. I and alumni). I wish you all the for Collaborative Education of 2018/2019 to Evan McMillan welcome our new directors to best in the months and years (CFCE) and how it is already at the DCAA annual winter the board, Amanda Morari and to come. serving students, alumni, and event. The DCAA Leaders Peter Wiebe and are heading Sincerely, the community during its first of the Future Award is a into a new year with a strong term at DC. new award that is presented and diverse board of directors. Special events have already annually to graduating students Looking ahead, the DCAA been taking place such as the who have demonstrated are pleased to announce our Michele Roberts, Class of DC Global Graduate Forum, consistent and outstanding latest partnership with Enactus 2006 President, DC Alumni and Young Women in Science, leadership both inside and Durham College and look Association CONTENTS

2 Letter from the 10 Chris McKee Reflects 20 Law and Order 32 A Canvas of Her Own President on His Music Career 22 Always Be Selling 34 Alumni Updates 4 Game On 12 Finding Solace at 24 Not All Heroes Wear Lakeridge Sports Durham 6 Capes Management Hits a 14 Sunrise Youth Group 26 Growing Goodness Home Run Shines Through 28 Shifting Gears 8 Dan Maclnally: The 16 A Place of Traditions 30 Never Stop Learning Heart of Riot Radio 18 The Kids Are Alright GAME ON Durham College planning for future of eSports

By Kayla McGray Photo Credit: Durham College rom the field to the TV, eSports club and the varsity Fsports at Durham College team,” says Marando. (DC) will never be the same. The eSports Gaming Arena Bringing eSports to campus is located in the DC Student has been an exciting journey Centre at the campus, for students, faculty and home of the former E.P leaders of the new high-tech Taylor’s pub. The facility is initiative. composed of 30 computers for “Students have responded use by eSports club members very positively, and the demand and 20 computers in a private, has been high to introduce this contained section of the room new initiative,” says Marianne for varsity gamers to train. Marando, executive dean, Additional tables and seating School of Business, IT and are also available for viewers, Management. as well as a separate area with TV screens to live stream the For those unfamiliar with the Michael Cameron, the organizer of eSports at Durham College, oversees the progress of varsity games. term, eSports are a form of the construction of the Gaming Arena. competitive video game play. During the 2018-2019 season, the Durham varsity team will “This will attract top gaming learning opportunities Most commonly, eSports are talent to DC and push the for students from several organized, multiplayer video be competing against other colleges and universities across college to the top of the leader programs such as Sport game competitions, typically boards,” says Marando. Business Management,” says between professional players. the province. Currently, the games that are being played Regarding the future of Marando. “Also, it will provide Currently, eSports is the a venue for students to relax fastest-growing industry in the include: League of Legends, eSports, she believes that Counter Strike: Global eSports will play a big part and engage in extracurricular gaming market, targeting non- activities.” traditional athletes. Offensive, Overwatch, Super in Durham’s future and give Smash Brothers Melee, Hearth students opportunities that “Students are very excited Stone, Heroes of the Storm never were available before. about the prospect of both the and Rocket League. “It will provide experiential REFLECTIONS 04 Rendering of the eSports Gaming Arena.

REFLECTIONS 05 Lakeridge Sports Management Hits a Home Run By Emily Sleep Photo Credit: Derek Marques

hen you’re able to mix throughout my life. It was the day player management,” Wyour passions with your first sport I ever played when I Marques laughs. “I don’t like education, work becomes was younger and slowly in my being called the CEO of the something fun. That’s exactly adult life it transformed into company, because I see myself what Durham College (DC) my career.” more as the janitor of the graduate Derek Marques did. The average day for player company not afraid to do the Integrating his passion for agent Marques includes is day to day dirty work of LSM”. sports and education of web development to form his own company, Lakeridge Sports I don’t like being called the CEO of the Management (LSM). LSM is a Canadian Sports Management company,“ because I see myself more as the Agency focusing on janitor of the company not afraid to do the day to with one goal in mind — the day dirty work of LSM. success of its players. ” From a young age, Marques getting his clients verified Since the launch of LSM in has had a love for all sports. on social media, negotiating May 2018, Marques has taken He grew up playing baseball contracts and advising College on 43 affiliated baseball players and watching Junior Hockey in and High School baseball from Rookie Ball to Triple A Oshawa, Ont. When it came to players for the upcoming MLB Baseball and 21 Independent his career Marques decided to Draft. With a majority of his baseball players that have Derek Marques, baseball players agent. focus on his first love, baseball. clients living in the United been released by affiliated “I figured instead of being States, Marques spends ball and looking to make their matter what league they’re average and focusing on most of his days on his cell way back into a Major League in. Marques reached out to multiple sports I’d rather phone texting and building Organization. When Marques his contacts who have played focus on one and be great,” relationships. However, created LSM, he decided or is currently still playing says Marques. “I chose Marques’ role is more complex his main focus would be on professional sports and he Baseball because it was a than it may seem. communication and equal asked them what hasn’t worked sport that kept on reoccurring “I mainly do day-to- treatment of all players, no REFLECTIONS 06 with previous agents. in life, some could take the easy way and go through the “I found 99 per cent of front door and wait their turn the time it’s because of to get in and others find the lack of communication,” unconventional way of going says Marques. “The players through a side window”, says shared they never heard from Marques. “It was hard and it their agent and did not feel took me time to get where I supported.” am, but I’ve stayed motivated the whole time because this is There are many my goal.” ways“ to get to where Since graduation, Marques you want to be in has had an alternative road life, some could take into the industry, but has been the easy way and go able to use his education and through the front door life experience to create his own dream job. Success does and wait their turn to not come overnight. Marques get in and others find proves it takes hard work the unconventional way and dedication to make your of going through a side dreams a reality. window.”

Throughout his career, he’s focused on giving back to the community he was raised in. Last fall, Marques was able to speak at the annual Sports Management Conference at Durham College. During the conference, he was able to share his insights and his unconventional road into the industry. “There are many ways to get to where you want to be Marques client, Brody Rodning of the Jays Organization pitches a strike out.

REFLECTIONS 07 Dan MacInally: The Heart Of Riot Radio Written by Liz Morris Photography by Liz Morris here’s more to a It’s about the people they for DCSI. “He has shown a his open-hearted attitude Tstudent’s experience meet along the way from dedication to the students. provides the personal than the classes they take, peers, teachers and staff He has always shown the support they need. the events they attend or alike who play a special role ability to help students, go “I’m in my first year their favourite spot to snack throughout their college the extra mile, to ensure coming back to school after on campus. journey. they are engaged and active 17 years and I felt alienated Dan MacInally, Station in our community. He’s in my classes at the start Manager of Durham College willing to do whatever it of the semester,” says Student Union’s (DCSI) takes to engage students Jordan Grenke, a student Riot Radio, has shown a even if it’s outside his job of the Music Business commitment to providing description. His knowledge Management. students with the best of the campus allows him experience they can get. to direct students to the He’s a graduate of DC’s services available to them former Entertainment for any situation they may Administration program, bring to him.” now known as the Music MacInally welcomes all Business Management who pass through the doors program. MacInally has at DCSI’s Riot Radio. Many worked on campus for nine students come to him for years in various roles with feedback on work or advice DCSI, previously known as on projects relevant to the Student Association at his experiences. He was a DC and UOIT. He uses his musician early in his career knowledge of the campus to and played with the band provide superior guidance Another Dark Day (A.D.D.). to the students he interacts His experiences both as a with. student and as a musician Student volunteers are educated on “Dan embodies the DCSI allow MacInally to provide operating industry standard equipment spirit,” says Charles Wilson, relevant insights and advice at Riot Radio which can set them apart to those who come to Dan encourages students to perservere from other candiates when entering the Administrator of the Office when learning to use the equipment in workforce. of the General Manager him. For some students, Riot Radio. REFLECTIONS 08 “I couldn’t really find to help them and seeing people who would let me them grow as people and join their initiatives. Dan as professionals. Helping made me feel like I could students and offering advice belong at this school.” where I can, is one of the most rewarding things about He has always this job.” “ MacInally embodies shown the ability the values of DCSI and to help students, strengthens the community at DC through the go the extra boundless effort he puts mile, to ensure into the interactions he has with students. “Dan is they are engaged the primary reason I was and active in our able to persevere through community. my struggles in those first ” few weeks as a mature DC For MacInally, working with student,” says Grenke. students isn’t just part of the job, it’s the highlight of working on campus. Riot Radio is a Durham “Working at the campus, College Student Inc. (DCSI) you’ll come across students service available for all on a regular basis who just want someone to talk to,” Durham College students. says MacInally. “A lot of Riot Radio is a visual students who I’ve become radio station where student close with or met over the years are away from their volunteers can gain parents for the first time or experiences on-air and on their own for the first behind the scenes. time. Sometimes they just need someone to talk to or Riot Radio is located at they need advice. One of the Oshawa campus in the the best parts of this job has Dan MacInally stands in front of the Riot Radio Doors. He oversees all operations at Riot Gordan Willey Building. been getting to know some Radio in his role of Studio Manager and is the gatekeeper for all students who wish to of these students, getting become involved in Riot Radio. REFLECTIONS 09 Chris McKee Reflects on His Music Career Canadian and American artists, helped develop the careers Story and photos by Justin Currier such as Rihanna, the Black of numerous award-winning hris McKee proves if you says McKee. “After working Eyed Peas, Wu-Tang Clang and Canadian artists including Chave a strong passion for two years at the Most many more. the likes of Shawn Desman, for something, anything is Wanted Entertainment, I was “I would call managers in Classified and many more.” possible. His successful career approached by the biggest Los Angeles and New York, in the music industry began company in called the and try to bring artists to Take advantage of well before he completed Feldman Agency.” Canada,” says McKee. “I “everything! Do Riot the Broadcasting Radio and At the Feldman Agency, produced concert tours for Radio, volunteer for the Contemporary Media program McKee’s role was to set up some of the biggest artists in in 2017. concert dates and organize athletic department or music including the first ever anywhere, get your foot “I started DJing in 1997, an entire tour for artists. Canadian tours for Rihanna which led me to start my He worked with numerous and the Black Eyed Peas. I also in the door and you’ll own record label called meet people. That’s Jedi Records and a concert what looks good on a production company called resume. A Way Of Life (AWOL),” says ” McKee. “AWOL is a rave After three successful years, company based out of London, McKee decided it was time to England and we wanted to be start his own agency called The located Toronto.” McKee Agency. He continued to put concert tours together McKee got rights to use for artists like Akon, Flo-Rida, AWOL music in Canada, Fat Joe and Ludacris. which helped bring DJs to Canada. While producing After accomplishing so numerous events in Toronto, much, so early in his career, he continued to build McKee admitted to losing relationships, which led him to motivation to stay in the music work for an agency called Most industry. Wanted Entertainment. “When you’ve accomplished But for McKee, the best had everything you’ve set yet to come. yourself up for, what’s your “I produced concerts for motivation?” asks McKee. “I dozens of Grammy and wanted to produce concert tours for Grammy and Juno -winning bands,” Chris McKee poses in front of Trebas Institute sign, where he teaches. REFLECTIONS 10 winning artists. I wanted to department or anywhere, get take an artist who was nothing your foot in the door and you’ll and build them into award meet people. That’s what looks winners – I did all of that good on a resume.” five or six times. So, your Currently, McKee works motivation becomes less.” as social media co-ordinator The Pickering, Ont., native and online development for attended Durham College TSN – Golf Talk Canada and (DC) for Broadcasting Radio a reporter for the Canadian and Contemporary Media Traffic Network. He is also program, where he focused on a professor at the Trebas more than just his academics. Institute and hopes by the end He did play-by-play for the of 2019 to have his own radio Durham Lords men’s and show. women’s volleyball and McKee also published a book varsity teams while called Life on the road with the working at Riot Radio. Wu-Tang Clan, which reflects “I love the sports culture at his 12 years producing tours DC,” says McKee. “When I and travelling on the road with was doing play-by-play, both them. His book is available on men’s and women’s teams Amazon. were so good and amazing to watch. The energy and being around the athletes made my Chris working on traffic reports for Newstalk 1010. experience at DC so amazing. “I became friends with terrible. I realized I said, ‘umm’ I still watch and listen to the everyone in the athletic 700 times. Working at Riot games.” department,” says McKee. “I Radio helped me work out McKee admits he tried to still talk to them to this day.” the kinks. I also learned how gravitate himself and became While doing play-by-play, to break patterns and speak friends with as many people McKee got the chance to work effectively.” in the athletic department, at Riot Radio and learned how When asked if McKee had highlighting Chris Cameron, to be better in front of the any advice for students, he Sports Information & Special microphone. encourages students to be Events Co-ordinator and Scott “It allowed me to suck more involved and proactive. Dennis, Sports Information in private,” says McKee. “I “Take advantage of and Marketing Officer for the would record myself talking everything! Do Riot Radio, Durham Lords. for an hour straight, and I was volunteer for the athletic

REFLECTIONS 11 Finding Solace at Durham Story By: Kaitlin Romain The newly opened Solace Centre helps students Photos Courtesy of: Durham College put their mental well-being first

ith mental health at the building a positive culture Wforefront of societal of health and wellness at concern, there is no better Durham.” time to implement new Among other duties, Bickle measures at Durham College oversees daily operations to support mental wellness. at the Solace Centre, co- Welcome to the Solace ordinates an on-campus health Centre. The newly opened and wellness ambassador centre is dedicated to helping program and facilitates students put their well-being outreach programs and first. Unlike the college’s health workshops. A good deal of her clinic, the Solace Centre energy is devoted to making looks at mental and physical students more aware of the health from a social justice Solace Centre’s existence. perspective, by focusing on Students and staff enjoy time with a therapy dogs at the Solace Centre. The dogs were brought on campus to help the Durham College community cope with school stress. There’s a big misunderstanding that nutritional service. “counselling is about dieting or meal-planning. “We see a lot of students “There’s a big surviving on caffeine but ” misunderstanding that actually, starting your day off optimal nutrition, mindfulness, “The help is there if they nutritional counselling is about with an apple with give you sexual health and harm need it,” she says. “A lot of dieting or meal-planning,” says more of an energy boost than reduction, among other issues. different departments are Bickle. “Nutritional counselling a cup of coffee,” says Bickle. “Our goal is to bring all of supporting student and staff is about examining how you are In many cases, proper these supports together to wellness, but a lot of students nutritionally fuelling your body nutrition is the first step to help build bridges for students are graduating sometimes not for success.” optimal physical and mental between these services,” says knowing about the fantastic wellness. Gearing students Heather Bickle, the Solace events and services that were The bad news: A good with knowledge of what their Centre’s resident health available to them.” number of students are not body nutritionally needs to promotion co-ordinator. Nutritional counselling is the exactly nutritionally aware. function is fundamental to “We really want to help start Solace Centre’s most popular REFLECTIONS 12 their success and overall wellness. At the same time, Bickle suggests there’s more to mental well- being than just eating right. “Wellness is more than kale and yoga” she says. “Not everyone can afford yoga and not everyone likes kale, so part of our role is helping students engage with areas of wellness that resonate more with them.” The Solace Centre is driven by a holistic approach to student wellness. Nutrition counselling is available to students at no cost. Emotional support animals pay weekly visits around exam time and there are allocated areas for students to unwind and focus on their mental health. As the title suggests, The Solace Centre is all about finding… solace. Heather Bickle is the health promotion co-ordinator at Durham College’s Solace Centre.

“Wellness is more than kale and yoga.”

To Contact the Solace Centre: T: 905-721-2000 ext. 6482 Email: [email protected] Monday- Friday: 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Durham College, Oshawa Campus C111

Heather Bickle meets with a student at the Solace Centre to offer free wellness coaching.

REFLECTIONS 13 Sunrise Youth Group Shines Through Brittany McMinn loves to help people. And she's good at it too.

By: Katrina O'Neill rittany McMinn is a young experiences for the Sunrise Bsocial service worker members. Whether it’s a at the amazing non-profit week-long camping trip, a organization Sunrise Youth New Year’s Eve party or just a Group (Sunrise). A graduate simple activity to express some of Durham College’s (DC) creativity, she’s there every Social Service Worker program step of the way. (SSW), it’s safe to say she has The support she provides been loving how the program for her members and the has prepared her for her passion she has for her job rewarding career as a Day-and- is unwavering. McMinn is Recreation-Program Support beaming when she speaks Staff at Sunrise. about how much love she has for her job. They develop “My favourite part of my inclusive“ programming job is spending time with the that creates positive members,” says McMinn. experiences for all who McMinn chose DC after access it — whether receiving an overwhelming it be their members, amount of positive feedback Photo Credit: Sunrise Youth Group their families, or their from peers regarding McMinn hiking with Sunrise members on their annual camping trip to Camp Wabikon. employment opportunities programming to individuals people explore their potential.” volunteers. Sunrise post-graduation — and the promotes creativity, with special needs since 1991,” Not only does McMinn attest claims rang true. according to the Sunrise leadership and helps to the employment success Currently over half of website. “They develop rate of the SSW program, young people explore Sunrise’s employees are DC inclusive programming that but she is also no stranger to their potential. alumni and were hired upon creates positive experiences knowing how valuable the skills ” completion of their placement for all who access it — whether learned during her time at DC Her role has satisfied her with the organization. it be their members, their love for taking care of people are when applied to her daily “Sunrise is an organization families, or their volunteers. by allowing her to create fun responsibilities. that has provided quality Sunrise promotes creativity, programming and amazing “I apply the skills gained recreational and life skills leadership and helps young REFLECTIONS 14 from my program daily at Sunrise,” she says. “Classes in my program such as life skills, pharmacology, sociology and psychology have helped me to better understand my clients and provide the best possible programming I can.”

My favourite part of my“ job is spending time with the members,” McMinn is confident in her ability to provide programming and support for the members at Sunrise, and she credits that to her professors. “During many of our Photo Credit: Sunrise Youth Group Photo Credit: Sunrise Youth Group courses we were given the McMinn showing a Sunrise member some love at Camp Wabikon. McMinn at various events with members. opportunity to speak and be opportunities and gives you their recreation program. McMinn was quick to fall in taught by professionals who the freedom to choose based love with Sunrise and thinks had extensive experience on your area of interest,” says Each member is you will too. McMinn, “There are so many in the field,” she says. “Our “so unique and they “Each member is so unique populations and types of work professors truly cared about and they continue to surprise included in the outcomes continue to surprise making sure we had what we me each and every day,” says of this program. It has great me each and every day. needed before entering the McMinn. “The relationships flexibility for those that are a The relationships I have workforce.” I have built at Sunrise will little unsure of what age group Would she recommend built at Sunrise will continue to inspire me each or setting they want to work the SSW program? Yes, she continue to inspire me and every day.” in.” would. McMinn feels this each and every day. Any individuals interested in program is for anyone that has As much as McMinn loves ” joining the Sunrise family can a passion for helping others to help, she’s asking for a little Volunteers at Sunrise contact Amber at volunteers@ and is looking for a meaningful help from you too. Sunrise have built many meaningful sunriseyouthgroup.ca. career. is an organization that relies relationships throughout “This program provides its heavily on volunteers and are the years and make their students with two placement looking for more support in recreation events possible. REFLECTIONS 15 A Place of Traditions

Story and photos by: Lauren Crummey working on that.” Forbes has been with the n September 2018, Durham centre since it originally ICollege opened its doors to opened in 2011 and has helped the Centre for Collaborative shape it into its present state. Education (CFCE), which Although this centre has became the new home for been created for Indigenous the First Peoples Indigenous students, its doors have always Centre (FPIC). been open to all. In the past, the FPIC has gone by other names at the college including the “It’s not about any Aboriginal Student Centre, blaming or shaming which was located in the now- at this point. It’s demolished Simcoe Building. about awareness The new location and name The four sacred medicines: cedarwood, tobacco, sage and lemongrass inside of a and education, are representative of a bold Medicine Wheel representation, that can be found at the centre. understanding the and ambitious effort toward creating a better future. the students, like the Student through traditional practices. shared true history The First Peoples Indigenous Academic Learning Services The centre brought in of Canada, and Centre is a facility designed (SALS) and brings them to the members from the community moving forward to to provide support and centre for students to access. to conduct a prayer, deliver reconciliation. advocacy for Indigenous The centre has resources a land acknowledgement and ” students at Durham College. available to students to give perform traditional song and A large part of the centre’s The services offered go them the best support they dance. goal involves the preservation far beyond academic need, in addition to crafts “It’s not just about us, of Indigenous culture and assistance. The centre takes and games that focus on it’s about us as a whole heritage. It creates the a holistic approach to help Indigenous heritage and community,” says Peggy opportunity for learning with Indigenous students’ culture. Forbes, one of the centre’s from Traditional Knowledge emotional, physical, mental During the grand opening of Indigenous Coaches. “We want Keepers and Elders through and spiritual well-being. the Centre for Collaborative our students to be aware of activities like the Cedar Tea Education, the First Peoples what’s in the community for The FPIC searches out Circle. Attendees have the Indigenous Centre helped them. Which is not a whole lot services that are necessary to opportunity to listen in a group welcome Durham College for Indigenous things, but we’re REFLECTIONS 16 setting or speak privately with have now been integrated into and is involved in outreach and Fortunately, former Durham Elders. They can also partake the Broadcasting - Radio and engagement programs in the College students are helping in Full Moon Ceremonies, a Contemporary Media program local community. Their goal to spread the message. Several traditional women’s ceremony. and are taught at the centre in is to heighten awareness and alumni who were involved with The FPIC also provides a a traditional way. build new relationships. the FPIC are now part of its pleasant change of scenery Outside of the college Indigenous Advisory Circle. Along with programs like the from its earlier location. The community, the centre It’s not just about new room has large windows regularly holds educational “ Truth and Reconciliation’s and a well-appointed kitchen, workshops and presentations us, it’s about us as a (TRC) Call to Action, changes which is used to prepare whole community. are being put in place by the Indigenous foods served at ” Canadian government to bring various events. new awareness to important Indigenous issues nationwide. Additionally, it features an important Medicine Wheel “We need to move forward fixture on its ceiling, which in a good way,” says Forbes. both preserves tradition and “We don’t have to stay in a serves as a conversation negative place because it’s starter for first-time visitors. not about any blaming or The Medicine Wheel has been shaming at this point. It’s about used as a guide in Indigenous awareness and education, culture for centuries. understanding the shared true history of Canada, and moving The centre is also dedicated forward to reconciliation.” to preserving the practice of The new Medicine Wheel light fixture that’s been added to the centre. Smudging – the traditional Indigenous ceremony used for purifying or cleansing the soul of negative thoughts of The First Peoples a person or place. While the Indigenous Centre previous FPIC facility had a is located in Room dedicated Smudge room, the 141 in the Centre new centre allows people to for Collaborative Smudge throughout the entire Education and centre and as well as in the operates weekdays classroom across the hall. from 8:30 a.m. to The First Peoples Indigenous Centre is continuously having 4:30 p.m. a positive impact on Durham College. Indigenous classes A Durham College alumni creates a pair of moccasins during a craft session at the centre. REFLECTIONS 17 The Kids Are Alright Child and Youth Care graduate Emma Jokinen is still following her dreams By: Alex Wilcox

efore she tackled Durham Durham College. The fact that BCollege’s Child and Youth Durham offered a two-year Care program, Emma Jokinen compressed program and the chose to explore her sense of campus was close to home adventure. were the deciding factors Four years ago, Jokinen In her time at the college, packed up her belongings and Jokinen quickly learned exactly headed to New Zealand to what child and youth care become an au pair for a family workers do each day (provide in the small town of Pukekohe. understanding and support Looking back now, she for children and families) and believes that everyone should experienced what they take experience living in another Emma Jokinen, happy graduate from the Child and Youth Care program. (Jokinen) away from the program (the country. skills to help families and “Everybody should have the children build and sustain Durham College really helped prepare me significant relationships, as chance of getting out of their for“ a career that I love, and where no two days own comfort zone,” she says. well as helping troubled youth “Working with children has are alike, I’ve never regretted the time I spent at find solutions to everyday life always been a passion of mine Durham. challenges). and at a young age I started ” Jokinen says there were two babysitting. Helping children Zealand, her typical day was from school and take them to instructors at Durham who learn and watching them grow action-packed. their after-school activities. truly inspired her. is a joy to witness.” “Every day, the parents After we got home, I had to “Lori Roblind was always Jokinen graduated from would leave early and head to cook dinner for them. Every making assignments that Durham’s Child and Youth the city for work,” she recalls. day was very busy.” incorporated real world Care program in 2015 and “I would wake the kids up, feed After a few years in New scenarios and Tina Doyle was working with children is her them breakfast and then drive Zealand, Jokinen began great at connecting with the full-time career today. During them to the bus stop. After looking into college and was students,” she says. “The her au pair days in New that, I would pick the kids up immediately attracted to smaller class sizes made it so REFLECTIONS 18 While being an au pair in New Zeland Emma went on a lot of adventures. On this adventure Emma along with other au pairs went on a hike to a beautiful water fall. (Douglas) you actually got to know the an educational assistant with spent at Durham.” teacher and they got to know the Trillium Lakelands School . you.” Board at a treatment facility During her two years at the for children with mental-health college, Jokinen took part in issues. She also picks up the For more information about the four work placements. occasional shift at The Boys Child and Youth Care Program visit: and Girls Club of Kawartha “My placements were really Lakes. durhamcollege.ca/programs/child-and-youth-care. awesome,” she recalls. “I got to use the skills that I learned “Durham College really from my classes and apply helped prepare me for a career each of them as I went along.” that I love, and where no two days are alike,” says Jokinen. Today, Jokinen works as “I’ve never regretted the time I REFLECTIONS 19 Law and Order Durham grad Bryant Wood shifted career lanes and never looked back By Mauricio Cuellar Photo credit: Mauricio Cuellar witching careers from paying off a mortgage. His Selectronics engineering determination, hard work and to police work was the biggest positive attitude eventually decision of Bryant Wood’s life. paid off in April, 2015, when he But Wood, a 1990 graduate was appointed chief of police of Durham College’s in Port Hope, Ont. Electronics Engineering Currently, Wood is in charge Technology program, went all of more than 35 uniformed Chief Bryant Wood has more than 25 years of experience in the police services. Chief Wood in on the career shift, which police officers and staffers is one of 54 people who currently hold the rank of chief of police in the province of Ontario. eventually led to him becoming working 24 hours, seven chief of police of Port Hope days per week, to provide a He also plays a big role in “I did a lot of technology Police Services. contemporary, well-equipped delivering various community courses,” he says. “It “When I was a child, I always and well-engaged police services, such as providing wasn’t just theoretical, but wanted to wear a uniform, service to the community shelters for women. also practical. I found the whether it was with the navy, while ensuring the safety and “In a small town, there are application of the theory very the air force, or as a police security of every citizen. usually only a few people to engaging, and also going to officer,” he says. “It was just Among other responsibilities, do the work,” Wood says. “We the lab and working with actual one of those things that I he oversees criminal consistently strive to break robots. That’s why I chose wanted to be the cop, not the investigations, provides down barriers to be part of the Durham College.” bad guy.” support to national and community. That’s not easy to After graduation, Wood Wood made his bold provincial initiatives, manages get sometimes in our role. This worked for a few companies in career move shortly after he the budget and deals with the makes my job very rewarding his profession, like Xerox. was married and had begun local media. He also performs but also very challenging at the “I really enjoyed those jobs, human resources tasks, same time.” but the common factor that connects with stakeholders I’m proud to show Reflecting on his time as I wasn’t really happy with was and implements the business an engineering student, they were all basically working students“ what they can plan that is updated every he remembers the course indoors,” he says. three years by the Police accomplish if they put curriculum of his first His next stop was the Port Services Board. their minds to it. semester. Hope Police Service, where he REFLECTIONS 20 ” realized DC had provided to him the right tools to succeed, particularly soft skills such as teamwork. “As long as you are well educated, and you take your education seriously, the tools and the skills you learn will be applicable to many fields,” he says. In 2008, Wood was recognized by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario with the Ontario Medal for Police Wood stands beside his Alumni of Distinction Award granted by Durham College in 2018. Wood has awarded the Star of Courage, Bravery, by the Governor Recipients are selected based on professional, community and personal accomplishments, Medal of Bravery, Police Exemplary Service General of Canada with the contributions to the advancement of DC, and the scope of impact for their achievements. Medal and Ontario Medal for Police Bravery. Star of Courage and Medal of Bravery in 2010, and the Police Exemplary Service Medal in 2013. He feels honoured by the medal but being named recipient of the Alumni of Distinction by DC in 2018 holds a particularly special meaning for him because he’s a solid supporter of education and helping others be the best they can be. “I’m proud to show students what they can accomplish if they put their minds to it,” he says.

Port Hope Police Station operates out of at 55 Fox Road N, Port Hope, Ont. The new building was constructed in 2015. REFLECTIONS 21 ALWAYS BE SELLING DC Advertising Grad Samantha Garner is Mad About Media

Story by: Kamila Moorji Photos by: Vinesh Beharry

lways Be Closing’ is an internship actually got me ‘A age-old saying when it my first job in media. The comes to sales. In public professors were also experts relations, advertising or any and helped me make informed other career in media, the decisions. They shared a lot motto is “Always be Selling” of their own experiences and and that’s exactly what helped provide information Samantha Garner has done you might not normally get just with her diploma in advertising to land the gig she has today. Throughout her three years The internship alone at Durham College, Garner’s “was worth the three intention was always to go years I spent there. into graphic design. But after My internship actually taking two media courses, she got me my first job in realized her true calling was media. The professors in media. Choosing Durham were also experts because of the diversity in the program, as well as the and helped me make prearranged internships, informed decisions. helped her to map out a career path and get the experience ” she needed before entering in a classroom.” the work field. Garner’s confidence grew “The internship alone was during her years at the college, worth the three years I spent where she made both life- Durham College advertising grad Samantha Garner, out-of-home and print investment there,” says Garner. “My long friends and life-long supervisor, at her workplace Dentsu Aegis Network. REFLECTIONS 22 connections. She found a Garner also suggests that savvy mentor in one particular students use the college professor: Dawn Salter, the experience to start building Advertising program co- connections. ordinator, who is still helping “Go to events, make friends her six years later. but also be nice to your After graduating in 2012, Garner has been able to garner considerable Go to events, make experience in the world of friends“ but also be nice media. In the past several years to your professors. she has worked as a media planning intern and a senior They can help set you media planner in different up in your field and companies. Currently, she’s they know people. working as an out-of-home and print investment supervisor professors,” she says. “They” at Dentsu Aegis Network in can help set you up in your Toronto. Although advertising field and they know people.” has become more digitally advanced in recent years, she continues to adapt and evolve in her chosen field. Garner’s recommendation for current Durham College Advertising students is to make the most of your time in college. “Show up to class,” she says. “College is only a few short years, so make sure you get as Durham College advertising grad Samantha Garner with colleague Katherine much out of it that you can.” Krozonouski, planner, working on a project at Dentsu Aegis Network. REFLECTIONS 23 Not All Heroes Wear Capes

By: Diane El-Hachem barriers, learning disabilities, as Photo credit: Diane El-Hachem well as students that are hard of hearing and/or with sight ighly challenging anxiety- loss. Through UDL, I’ve learned H provoking courses require and applied the many inclusive a strong student-faculty ways to present material.” relationship. At Durham As new technology emerges, College (DC), professors have Umrah visits the Centre a significant role in making for Academic and Faculty sure the student experience Enrichment (C.A.F.E.) where comes first. Professor Howard he becomes a student himself. Umrah provides a comfortable He does this to sharpen his learning environment in efforts skills and deliver an even to alleviate as much student better student experience. stress as possible. As new technology emerges, Umrah fully demonstrates Umrah visits the Centre how to provide inclusiveness for Academic and Faculty Howard Umrah teaches his Business Math class by using visuals, explanations and more. in his teaching methods. Enrichment (C.A.F.E.) where and many stay in contact with He’s also a very understanding He makes sure all students he becomes a student himself. them years after graduation. individual who is willing to help regardless of learning style, He does this to sharpen his students whether it’s with class disability or language barrier, skills and deliver an even “I think Howard is an assistance or with trying to are able to grasp the content better student experience. exceptional teacher that brings he’s teaching. a different perspective on the help students find their career “As our mission statement program,” says Emily Cabral, goals.” “I speak, write on the board, says, my students’ experience a DC alumnus of the former Faculty may not realize the use social media, upload is first and foremost a priority,” Operations Management extent to which their influence material to DC Connect says Umrah. “I’m always making program. “He understood has with a student’s self- with closed captions and sure they’re learning and that my learning style was confidence, motivation and translations, meet one-on-one, feeling welcome to approach different and he never spoke a academic achievement. With anything to help students,” me for assistance whether it’s discouraging word about how this in mind, professors have says Umrah. “Universal about material or careers in difficult I thought the material an important job in making Designed for Learning (UDL) the field.” incorporates all the different was for me. Alumni remember their ways in which we learn, professors acknowledging language REFLECTIONS 24 sure every student has equal opportunity for success in As our mission class, no matter what their learning style or disability may statement“ says, my be. students’ experience I speak, write on is first and foremost a the“ board, use social priority, says Umrah. media, upload material ” to DC Connect with closed captions and Main Barriers To translations, meet one- Education For on-one, anything to Students With help students, Disabilities says Umrah. ” According to Statistics Negative Attitudes and Howard Umrah explaining a Business Math equation while using visual indicators. Canada, 35 per cent of Stereotypes: Students persons with disabilities in with disabilities continue to Canada report being avoided face negative attitudes and or excluded at school because stereotypes in the education of their disability. Additionally, system. 37 per cent of persons with disabilities in Canada report Accommodation Process: taking fewer courses because Accommodation is not always of their disability. provided in a timely manner, Students should be less is often insufficient, and forgiving of professors who sometimes not provided at all don’t embody DC’s mission, vision and values. Learning Inadequate funding: At is a two-way street in which the post-secondary level, professors teach and learn the funding structure is from their students. highly complex, with some “If we teach today’s students programs containing eligibility as we taught yesterday’s, requirements and restrictions that raise human rights issues. Students hearing Howard Umrah verbally communicate an eqaution on the whiteboard. we rob them of tomorrow,” says John Dewey, American philosopher and educator. REFLECTIONS 25 Growing Goodness By Madeleine Dender and as he got older moved Photo Credit: Durham College on to receive an education at and Imagine being able to . know where every food “It was a high school job,” you consumed came from. says Shane Jones, Program Nowadays our grocery stores Co-ordinator of Horticulture have about 90 per cent of our at Durham College. “I grew food coming from different up around farms, but I got a areas in the world. So, do job at a local tropical plant we really know what we are greenhouse,. I went off to consuming? do animation at Sheridan The Horticulture program College and then realized that I launched about seven years couldn’t live without plants.” ago at Durham College (DC). It A typical work day for Jones started out as a small program depends on the season. During that not many people knew the winter, he has the role of of, and has grown into a huge Program Coordinator, Shane Jones works with students in the greenhouse at Durham taking care of the greenhouse, College Whitby Campus. focal point for DC and its ensuring the students have surrounding community. what they need to successfully Horticulture is the study of continue their studies and plants, how they are grown and design work. As soon as the propagated. However, Durham spring comes, it’s all about College takes the program one getting plants in the ground step further by also focusing and getting them growing. on landscaping, design, The benefits of having a arboriculture, agriculture and program like this at DC is the farming. development of the landscape DC brings in very and servicing the community. experienced professors related The communities like Oshawa, to the Horticulture field like Ont. and Whitby, Ont., don’t Program Co-ordinator Shane have a local landscape or Horticulture students learning in one of their classes at Durham College Whitby Campus. Jones. He started working horticulture program. The with plants at a very young age closest horticulture program REFLECTIONS 26 to the west is Humber College experience even before they and our closest to the east is go out into the real world. . “There is nothing in our region and there is a lot of industry people in this area,” explains Jones.

The benefits of “having a program like this at DC is the development of the landscape and servicing the community.” “A lot of landscapers, subdivisions, nurseries and farmers. Durham is a huge horticulture area, but we don’t Fresh rasberries grown in the horticulture greenhouse at the Durham College Whitby have the program to service Campus. its needs or we didn’t until this “We have all this food provides the college with a program opened.” coming off and the Centre for chance to showcase some Food is trying,” says Jones. new and innovative ideas to In January 2019, DC “But there is so much volume.” both potential students and received a $1 million donation thesurrounding communities. Students work outside in the fields for from The W. Garfield With both programs, class. WestonFoundation for farming Horticulture – Food and What makes horticulture so operations. The money Farming and Horticulture special at DC is that students will go directly into helping Technician, doubling in size are not only working with For more information support the greenhouse in the last couple of years, plants and crops but with other about Durham College’s and crops by giving them a it also gives the college an programs as well. Culinary, Horticultre Progam visit: post-harvest facility. At DC’s opportunity to use the money events, and hospitality and durhamcollege.ca/ Whitby campus, there isn’t to expand on different ideas. horticulture students come programs/food-and-farming a “dedicated” space for the The college has decided to together to work with one OR another. This gives them an crops that have already grown start doing something called durhamcollege.ca/ opportunity to work with to process, store, wash and Aquaculture, where you programs/horticulture- people in different fields and clean them properly. grow plants with fish. This technician giving them that hands-on REFLECTIONS 27 computers than a lot of other people did at that time, and SHIFTING GEARS it offered me an opportunity to grow my career in ways I’d By: Marissa Campbell governance. As chief operating As a vice president of IT at never thought of,” she says. officer of the IT division of Rogers Communications lumni of Distinction Global Retail and Commercial Inc., she led the technology You can sit and do Arecipient, internationally Banking at Barclays in London, enablement program for Ted recognized and accomplished “nothing and fall apart U.K., she worked with the Rogers’ Convergence strategy, or you can get going chief information officer, Group CIO to manage the including enterprise customer world traveller and lover of all 7,000-person Information database and Customer and do something to things pugs, Heather Campbell Technology Division in the Relations Management (CRM) improve your world. is returning to her legal Global Retail and Commercial and saved the organization Giving up wasn’t an administration roots with the Bank and oversaw a £1.4 billion $25-million annually by option. opening of the new law firm, budget. She also managed the standardizing operating Purcell Law, in Fernie B.C. In addition to her” diploma “Getting IT Right” program, procedures. from Durham College, Campbell has had an an £80-million-a-year, three- Campbell’s path to success outstanding career. As vice- Campbell’s credentials also year program to standardize started in 1985 with a Legal include an MBA from Queens president and CIO at Canadian and streamline IT services, Administration diploma from Pacific Railway, she overhauled University, giving her a introduce operational Durham College (DC). From competitive that helped its IT division, including people, efficiencies and modernize the first day of class, the leadership, technology and IT her find success and reach her the infrastructure estate. program was a match. She career goals. was fascinated by the law Former co-worker and and admired the real-world long-time friend, Mea Hill, practitioners who taught the credits Campbell’s drive and program. She also valued the “laser sharp” focus for her college’s intern policies. success. “My time at DC made me “Heather’s greatest strength confident in my abilities. The is her focus,” Hill says. hands-on curriculum and work- “When she puts her mind to placement opportunities were something, there’s no stopping invaluable,” Campbell says. her. Her capacity to learn, A general education course her drive to understand and in micro-computers in her final her passion to succeed was year at DC helped shape the something to behold.” course of her career. Campbell takes a moment out of her day at Purcell Law. (Marquis) That drive and focus helped “Because of that class, I knew Campbell become one of DC’s a little more about micro- first Alumni of Distinction. REFLECTIONS 28 An avid traveller, Campbell has seen some spectacular views, but when she moved out west to work for Canadian Pacific Railway, she discovered Fernie, B.C. and fell in love with the quaint community tucked away in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Hoping to lay down some solid roots out west, her plans were interrupted by a devasting stroke that paralyzed the left side of her body. It’s taken two years of rigorous rehab and determined recovery to get functionality back, but according to Campbell, giving up was never an option. “You can sit and do nothing and fall apart or you can get going and do something to improve your world. Giving up wasn’t an option.” Campbell started the blog AwesomeMountainGirl.com to Campbell hikes through the mountains at Maiden Lake in Fernie, B.C. (Ingram) document her recovery in the hopes of helping others on a similar journey. works as the firm’s Paralegal. as a solid foundation for the accomplished career doing “I didn’t want to rejoin the future. what she loves, living in a “little “I was very fortunate. It could house in the mountains,” with have been a lot worse.” rat race that contributed to “Whatever you’re doing at my stroke, but I wanted to get DC, it’s not the end game. her “amazing husband” Dave That journey continues back in the game and make Consider that a starting point and a “majestic little pug” to evolve, and in September best use of my credentials” for wherever your dreams or named Roop constantly curled 2018, Campbell became an ambitions take you.” at her side. investor in Purcell Law, a local For those just starting on start-up in Fernie that caters their paths, Campbell suggests For Campbell, those to personal injury law. She also viewing their time at college dreams have led her to an REFLECTIONS 29 NEVER STOP LEARNING By: Sarah Abbott particularly close to his Photo Credit: Durham College heart: connecting small and hen Stephen Forbes medium-sized businesses with Wentered Durham developers fluent in modern AI College’s Computer solutions. Programmer Analyst program Forbes’s involvement with in 2006, he had no idea the AI Hub began while he just how much his life was serving as a member of would change. His thirst for the dedicated and talented knowledge allowed him shine team in the Office of Research in ways he never thought Services, Innovation, and possible. Entrepreneurship. In consort “My aim is to always be with his colleagues, Forbes learning, and to always be a crafted a proposal to fund student,” says Forbes. the AI Hub. After presenting After graduating in 2009, their proposal to the Durham Forbes immediately landed College leadership team, the a job in his field. In his spare AI Hub team received a green time, he became a private light. tutor and an educational tour Forbes says he will always guide. He was eventually given be grateful to the handful of Oshawa, Ont. – Stephen Forbes poses for a photo with Andrew Mayne, Amit Maraj, and the opportunity to teach his Sam Plati at Durham College’s Research Day on May 3, 2018. people at Durham that have first class in the Computer steadily pushed him to be his determined go-getter, but as from that student I was when Programmer Analyst program best. In particular, he gives of spring 2017, he has had the I graduated, and I’m always here at the college in 2011 credit to Kevin Dougherty, pleasure of serving as co- trying to improve.” and hasn’t looked back since. who taught him how to be ordinator of the Computer Coming from a large family In the past few years, Forbes accountable; to Bill Marlow, for Programmer Analyst program. of teachers, the transition has lent his expertise to always making him feel it was from student to instructor was “The transition for me was several projects at Durham, okay for not always knowing natural for him. much like any other attempt at including the “AI Hub.” The AI all the answers; and to Julie self-improvement,” he says. “I Hub serves several different Of course, being a born Walker, whose kindness, he did my best to learn as quickly purposes on campus, but leader also helps in building says, could reignite a burned- as I could from those before Forbes holds one cause a career. Not only has Forbes out light bulb. me. I’m still transitioning proven himself to be a No question that ongoing REFLECTIONS 30 changes in the field of IT have of IT pioneer who loves a good moving and don’t let yourself that can sense its operating taught Forbes to become challenge. get bogged down. In other environment, reason, learn, adaptable in the past few “If you’re not hitting the words, don’t avoid failure.” and act in response to input years. At the same time, ground hard and getting hurt The AI Hub has leading and objectives. he knows that the ongoing every now and then, you’re experts to help you and your An observer of the growth in his chosen field probably not pushing any team expand your knowledge behaviour would consider the have opened up a whole new boundaries or getting better at skills. Artificial intelligence is a results intelligent if a human world of possibilities. By his your craft,” he says. term that represents a system performed the action. own admission, he’s the type His best advice: “Keep or set of business processes

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College student Matthew Wierzbicki poses with the AI Hub logo at Durham College’s Research Day on May 3, 2018.

REFLECTIONS 31 A Canvas of Her Own By Kris Lamb Artwork by Chelesy Rogatinsky

ebellious pirates, biker Management program at Malefic Tattoos, a tattoo shop Rgangs and sailors are some Durham College (DC), where in Mississauga, Ont., agreed to of the first things that come to she became the captain of the take her on as an apprentice. mind when people start talking soccer team in her rookie year. “It is not easy trying to find about tattoos, but to an artist, However, things took a turn for an apprenticeship, and it takes it is a canvas waiting for a the worst and she sustained a lot of patience and a solid masterpiece. multiple injuries resulting in portfolio,” says Rogatinsky, Twenty-six-year-old inspired knee surgery, which took her “I’m one year into my tattoo apprentice Chelsey off the field and away from the apprenticeship and I couldn’t Rogatinsky grew up surrounded game that she loved. be happier. I’ve worked by her grandmother’s artwork extremely hard to get here.” hung all around her. This It is not easy Looking back, the inspired her to try and draw trying“ to find an Foundations in Art and a masterpiece of her own. apprenticeship, and it Design program was only a Sketching her way through takes a lot of patience stepping stone to bringing high school, she studied art and a solid portfolio. Rogatinsky back to her roots. while playing on any sports ” The program offers a diverse team she could make time “I was living in the dark after set of courses covering topics for. Moving on towards post- losing such a big part of my like digital drawing, 3D art and secondary, Rogatinsky was life,” says Rogatinsky, “It left design, and presentation and faced with a choice between me confiding in the only other portfolio techniques. two passions she had grown a matter I believe I was good at, “I’m so grateful for having strong connection to athletics drawing.” such an unreal college and art. She enrolled into the experience and I don’t take “I was accepted into Foundations in Art and those memories for granted,” art school, but neglected Design program at DC and says Rogatinsky, “Although I one passion for the other, began a three-year journey didn’t end up in the music especially when I received a looking for an apprenticeship. industry, Foundations in soccer scholarship for Durham Rogatinsky was constantly Art and Design was a good College,” says Rogatinsky. turned away despite her efforts mindset to be in to find my While on a soccer but that didn’t lessen her way into the tattoo industry.” scholarship, she enrolled into determination. In 2018, her hard work had paid off and Artwork: Top Shark Bait and bottom a three-year Music Business Flower. REFLECTIONS 32 Artwork: Top left Tiger, bottom left Dexter, middle Jim Carrey, top right Elvis and bottom right Popeye. REFLECTIONS 33 ALUMNI UPDATE 1985 2006 2015 Christine Reid Monica Coddington (nee John Wesley Phillips Vanderheide) Dental Hygiene Recreation and Leisure Police Foundations Services Christine is a dental hygienist John Wesley works as an and lives in Oshawa, Ont. Monica is a Territory Auto Dealer for Owasco with her husband David. manager with Suncor Energy Volkswagen Inc. and lives in and lives in Edmonton, Alta., Whitby, Ont. with her husband John.

2017 2017 Follow us! Eric Lacina Heidi Mitchell @durhamcollegealumni Environmental Technology Human Resource Management Eric is a project technologist @alumni_DC for Pinchin Environmental Heidi works as an HR Limited and lives in Generalist for R.V. Anderson Chatham, Ont. Associates Ltd. And lives @alumni_DC in Whitby, Ont., with her husband Robert.

About this issue... Editor-In-Chief: Matisse Hamel-Nelis Production Manager: Kaitlin Romaine Managing Editor: Kamila Moorji Digital Content Manager: Liz Morris Art Director: Kris Sonderskov-Lamb Associate Art Director: Alexandria Wilcox Copy Editor: Kayla McGray Photo Editor: Mauricio Cuellar

Published by the Durham College Alumni Association, 2000 Simcoe St. N., Oshawa, Ont., L1H 7K7 T: 905-721-3035 F: 905-721-3134 E: [email protected]