Melody Gaukel

Melody Gaukel saw her career take off rapidly after graduating from the Durham College Public Relations program in 1998. Starting as a senior consultant with a Toronto-based public relations firm shortly after graduating, she quickly moved into senior positions in larger agencies, rising to her current position as vice-president, Corporate and Finance, at Environics Communications, one of Canada’s largest public relations and marketing firms. She played

a major role in promoting the Ontario Tire Stewardship program, increasing both public awareness and tire collections to reduce the number of used tires being burned or sent to landfills. She has also worked with several not-for-profit agencies and served as a member of the advisory council for Durham College’s Public Relations program for 15 years. In addition, Melody has served as a mentor for many Durham College graduates and frequently makes herself available to meet with students to provide advice and support on their career goals. Melody is also an active member of St. Andrew’s United Church in Toronto, where she has led building revitalization programs, chaired the communications committee and supported major community fundraising programs.