Debbie King

“I still enjoy every day,” said Debbie. “Change is constant, with every year bringing in new faces, a hustle and bustle – it’s the students that keep Holland College energized.”

Debbie says the best part of her job is meeting and connecting with the students. In her role as department assistant, she has a bird’s-eye view of the challenges students face every day. 

By donating to the Holland College Foundation since 1984 through payroll deductions, Debbie’s support has helped hundreds of students over the years.

“You hear so many unique stories from the students, about the paths they have taken to get to Holland College,” said Debbie. “Many of them are struggling financially to even be in school, so I know how important scholarships, bursaries, and awards are to their success.” 

Debbie remembers the kindness Davida Stewart, a Holland College icon and her instructor at the time, showed her when she was a student. 

“Thanks to a loan organized by Davida, which was given with the stipulation that it be paid back when I was working, I was able to have some necessary dental work done that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford,” recalled Debbie. “This allowed me to graduate and enter the workforce with confidence. To this day, I am grateful for Davida’s kind gesture of caring. I recognize the impact it had on me as a struggling student. Understanding first-hand how financial assistance can directly impact student success is the reason I support  the Holland College Foundation's work.”

“Giving to the Holland College Foundation is a simple way to give back,” said Debbie. “A little bit comes off your paycheque, however much or as little as you can afford to give. Regardless of the amount it adds up over the years and makes a big difference in the lives of our students. When you see the students walk across the stage at graduation, that’s the excitement. To think you’ve been a part of their success is very rewarding.”

In her spare time, Debbie enjoys being with her family and friends, spending time outdoors, and working on lots of knitting and crocheting projects.