Our past. Our story. Our future.

Ta’n wejitaiek, a’tukwaqnminal, elmi’ knikminen.

50 Years

Cape Breton University’s 50th Anniversary celebration as an independent post-secondary institution with an autonomous Board of Governors begins in January 2024. Join us in celebrating our golden anniversary through exciting events, activities and special projects throughout the year.

Whether you graduated from one of our predecessor institutions, in CBU’s early years or are part of the CBU community today, we look forward to you joining us for this year-long celebration of remarkable milestones, shared memories and stories.

Our Story

Our roots grew from humble beginnings, a story of dedication and perseverance. The College of Cape Breton including Xavier Junior College, Xavier College, the Nova Scotia Eastern Institute of Technology and the University College of Cape Breton set the stage for the CBU we know and love today.

Over the past 50 years, our story has continued to develop and grow. It is our people, our cultures and our strong sense of community that make Cape Breton University what it is today. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary in 2024, we’re looking to highlight even more CBU stories. So whether your story is from 1974 or 2023, we want to hear from you. If you have a story to share from the past 50 years, please share your recommendations or submit your story for consideration.

Projects and Initiatives

Questions?

If you have questions about the celebration or want to be part of the planning, please contact 50anniversary@cbu.ca.

Check out 50th Anniversary photo gallery

The History of CBU

1974-2024

From our humble beginnings as Xavier Junior College to our 23 years as UCCB, follow along on our journey to becoming Cape Breton University.

View CBU's Timeline

50th News & Stories

Throwback to Employer Appreciation Dinner Hosted by BHTM Students

December 11, 2024

This spring, Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management (BHTM) students at Cape Breton University hosted a special Employer Appreciation Dinner…

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Growing Forward Together: Soil Restoration at Colliery Lands Park

December 9, 2024

In the fall, a community tree-planting event at Colliery Lands Park in New Waterford brought together 26 enthusiastic participants from…

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On Ice and in Research: Meet Jennifer MacInnis Moore

December 7, 2024

Growing up in Port Hood, a community known for its love of hockey, Jennifer MacInnis Moore spent much of her…

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Navigating Research in Algorithmic Healthcare Management: Meet Matthew MacLeod

December 4, 2024

Inspired by his thesis work during his final year at Cape Breton University, Matthew MacLeod’s passion for research has only…

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Exploring Cape Breton’s Business History with Sarah Munro and Quinn Rowe

November 19, 2024

As part of Cape Breton University’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, the Anniversary Scholar Awards support pioneering research projects across the University.…

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Heart Remained at Home: Meet Tracey MacNeil

November 14, 2024

For Tracey MacNeil, Cape Breton has always been more than just home, it’s the heart of her inspiration and identity.…

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A Lifelong Connection to Education: Meet Mark Frison

November 12, 2024

Mark Frison’s connection to Cape Breton University is deeply rooted, not only through his own experiences as an active student…

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How Culture and Community Shaped Muin Ji’j Bernard’s Career Path

November 1, 2024

For Bertram Muin Ji’j Bernard, a 32-year-old Special Projects Coordinator with the Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq (UNSM), staying rooted…

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A Heart for Nature: Meet Dr. Kathleen Aikens

October 22, 2024

Returning home to Cape Breton after 15 years, Dr. Kathleen Aikens proves that life can come full circle with a…

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