Valedictorian Information

CBU has a longstanding tradition of electing a high-achieving student who embodies CBU’s Graduate Attributes and has made significant contributions to the CBU community during their studies, as the valedictorian. This distinguished individual will deliver the valedictory address at the CBU Convocation ceremony. In this address, they will reflect on their educational journey, instill hope for the future, and express gratitude to all those who supported them along the way. Derived from the Latin phrase meaning “to bid farewell,” the term valedictorian encapsulates a unique opportunity to represent, inspire, and bid farewell to one’s graduating class.

The valedictorian also holds the important responsibility of carrying the CBU Mace during the Convocation Ceremony procession. Crafted from Cape Breton oak and embellished with a crown of diamonds, the CBU Mace stands as symbol of the authority vested in the Chancellor. As both Valedictorian and Mace Bearer, this student will join the procession alongside the members of the stage party at the CBU Convocation, and sit on the stage during the Ceremony.

Application Deadline: April 27, 2026

Qualifications

• Applicants must be considered a potential graduate for the Spring 2026 Convocation.
• Applicants must have contributed in some way to the University community during their time at CBU.
• Exemplify the Graduate Outcomes set for CBU graduates Information on the CBU Graduate Attributes.  
• Applicants must demonstrate strong academic standing with a cumulative average of at least 80% as of April 28, 2026.
• CBU is committed to equitable and inclusive practices. We recognize that students may have faced personal barriers during their academic journey. These experiences are considered thoughtfully as part of the selection process.

Valedictorian Submission Requirements 

CBU is committed to equitable and inclusive practices in the Valedictorian selection process. We recognize that students may have experienced personal or systemic barriers during their academic journey. Applicants may choose to share experiences or perspectives that have shaped their involvement, achievements, or leadership at CBU. Any information shared will be considered respectfully and in context to ensure a fair and inclusive evaluation process.

To complete your application for Valedictorian, please submit the following materials:

1. Updated Résumé
   1. Provide a current résumé outlining your academic achievements, community involvement, leadership experience, cultural contributions, employment, volunteerism, and other activities that represent your personal and academic journey at CBU.
2. Cover Letter
   1. Your cover letter should:
      1. Describing why you are interested in serving as Valedictorian.
      2. Highlight the strengths, perspectives, and lived experiences you would bring as a representative of the graduating class.
      3. Reflect on your contributions to the CBU community, including leadership, advocacy, cultural or community engagement, resilience, or involvement in equity focused initiatives.
      4. Speak to your commitment to representing all students in a respectful and inclusive way.
   2. (If desired, students may request guidance on preparing a resume or cover letter through the CBU Career Services Office.)
3. Two References
   1. To ensure equitable access, references may be from faculty, staff, advisers, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, coaches, supervisors, or others in the CBU community who can speak to the applicant’s character, leadership, or contributions. Reference letters must be sent directly to valedictorian@cbu.ca.
4. Short Video Submission (Less than 3 minutes)
   1. Submit an unlisted YouTube video that includes:
      1. A meaningful highlight or memory from your time at CBU and why it stands out.
      2. A reflection on how this experience shaped your academic, cultural, or community journey.
      3. Why you feel you would be a strong, inclusive, and representative voice for the graduating class.

How to Submit Your Application

• Completed applications can be emailed to valedictorian@cbu.ca Please send your resume and video in one email.
• Please remember that reference letters must be sent directly to valedictorian@cbu.ca by the reference writer, not the applicant.
• Please note applications and references received after the deadline will not be considered.
• By submitting your application, you are granting permission for the selection committee to view your official transcript, provided by the Office of the Registrar.

Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria

Program Completion:

Applicants must have met all academic requirements for their program of study.

Contribution to the CBU Community:

Applicants must be community minded. Contributions may include academic leadership, peer mentorship, community or cultural engagement, volunteerism, advocacy, athletics, or other meaningful involvement.

Graduate Attributes:

Applicants should exemplify the CBU Graduate Attributes, which reflect leadership, integrity, global citizenship, critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning.

Academic Standing:

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic standing, with a cumulative average of at least 80% as of April 28, 2026.

 

CBU is committed to equitable and inclusive practices in the Valedictorian selection process. The selection committee is structured to ensure diverse perspectives are represented in the review of applications.

To support this commitment, the Valedictorian Selection Committee includes stakeholders from across the university. Representation may include:

•  Unama’ki College
• African Nova Scotian Student Support Services
• Jennifer Keeping Centre for Accessible Learning
• International Student Supports
• Faculty representatives
• Staff members
• Student Affairs
• Other campus partners who reflect the diversity of the CBU community

This multi-perspective approach helps ensure applications are assessed with cultural awareness, fairness, and a strong understanding of the varied experiences of our students.