Durham to expand WIL with $2M gift

Durham College will expand its work-integrated learning (WIL) offerings and introduce new supports, thanks to a $2M gift from philanthropist Diane Blake. The Diane Blake Student Success Initiative (DBSSI) will accelerate Durham’s cooperative education goals and increase the number of participating employers so that every eligible student will have access to WIL opportunities. Students who are facing barriers to participation will also be eligible for new financial supports for transportation or accommodation, childcare, and personal protective equipment or uniforms. “Diane’s gift will make a difference in the lives of students who will have access to these incredible real-world experiences by improving our capacity to support and sustain these efforts,” said Durham President Don Lovisa.