OSHAWA, Ont. – Following the Durham College Student Association (DCSA) elections this winter, varsity rugby player Keiran Popela has been selected by the student body to be the next executive chair.
 
When Popela arrived at Durham College, he quickly noticed something that set the campus apart: a community that showed up for one another. Whether it was students filling the stands to support varsity teams or classmates helping each other excel in the classroom, the sense of unity was unmistakable.
 
Now, as a member of the Lords men's rugby team and the newly elected executive chair of the DCSA, Popela is channeling that spirit into leadership. His goal is clear, to strengthen the connections that make the college feel like home.
 
"I saw this as a way to give back to the DC community," Popela said. "In my two years here, I've seen how much this community relies on each other. I want to help grow this sense of community beyond athletics and into every part of campus life."
 
Stepping into one of the most visible student leadership roles on campus is something Popela doesn't take lightly. For him, it's about earning, and keeping, the trust of his peers.
 
"It's truly an honour to be elected to this position," he said. "It means students trust me to have their best interests at heart. My job is to make sure every student feels heard, included and supported throughout their college experience."
 
Popela's approach to leadership is rooted in listening. He believes that understanding the diverse backgrounds and perspectives at Durham College is essential to advocating for what students truly need.
 
He isn't the first rugby player to hold the executive chair position. He follows in the footsteps of Megan Bent, who set a standard for athletes making an impact beyond their sport. That connection between rugby and leadership is something Popela embraces.
 
"I want to thank Megan for the strong relationship she built between the DCSA and DC Athletics during her time as executive chair," said Scott Dennis, Director, Athletics & Recreation. "As another student-athlete stepping into this role, Keiran understands the importance of representing something bigger than yourself. He's someone who leads with authenticity and genuinely cares about the student experience. We're excited to see the impact he'll make both within the DCSA and across the Durham College community."
 
For Popela, being involved in both athletics and student leadership offers a unique vantage point. "It allows me to connect with a wide range of students across campus," he said. "It's an opportunity to continue building a positive legacy and show that student-athletes can be strong advocates for the student body."
 
As executive chair, Popela has a set of clear priorities aimed at making campus life more engaging and supportive for everyone. At the top of his list is increasing student involvement.
 
"One of my biggest priorities is strengthening student engagement and creating more opportunities for students to feel connected to campus life," he said. "I want students to feel comfortable getting involved whether that's through clubs, events, athletics or student-led initiatives."
 
He also wants to make sure students know where to turn when they need help or want to get involved. "Students should feel informed about the resources, supports and opportunities available to them," Popela said. "I believe transparency and accessibility are important in leadership."
 
Wellness is another key focus. "Balancing academics, work, and personal responsibilities can be challenging," he said. "Promoting mental health awareness and inclusive programs is extremely important to me. Every student should feel welcomed, represented and supported."
 
He's also passionate about breaking down silos between different groups on campus. "Students can sometimes stay within their own programs, clubs or teams," he said. "Creating more collaborative events and initiatives can help build stronger relationships across the college."
 
Between rugby practices, classes, and leadership responsibilities, Popela knows the importance of staying organized and staying grounded.
 
Even with a packed schedule, Popela makes time to recharge. "Staying organized isn't just about managing tasks," he said. "It's about making sure I have time to stay healthy and present in everything I'm involved in."
 
As he begins his term, Popela wants students to know that building a strong and inclusive community will remain at the heart of everything he does.

Stay in the know regarding Durham College Athletics and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. All home games are live streamed on the Durham Lords Network.