Arseneau-Britten Seminar Series

Purpose and Vision:

Cape Breton University aims to elevate academic programs and research in the sciences through the establishment of the Arseneau-Britten Seminar Series, a high-impact initiative to honour the foundational contributions of two remarkable educators and scientists in CBU’s history. As namesakes of the university’s first science building, Dr. Don Arseneau and Prof. Elmer Britten helped lay the intellectual and physical foundations for science education at Cape Breton University.

This series is timely and symbolic. With the upcoming launch of the Centre for Discovery & Innovation (CDI) and the possible demolition or repurposing of the Arseneau-Britten building, this seminar series offers a legacy vehicle to preserve and honour their names, ensuring future generations understand the university’s roots, even as it grows forward.

Objectives

• Legacy Preservation: Honour the lasting influence of Dr. Arseneau and Prof. Britten through a recurring, high-profile academic event.
• Enhance Scholarly Culture: Create a space for curiosity, scientific discussion, and interdisciplinary thinking.
• Student Development: Foster engagement with research, graduate school pathways, and science careers.
• Community Engagement: Make science more accessible and celebrate Cape Breton’s role in national innovation.

Structure of the Series

The Arseneau-Britten Seminar Series will begin with one keynote seminar each academic year, featuring distinguished national or international speakers. Events may be offered in person or virtually and will include a public keynote, opportunities for faculty and students to engage in discussion and a recorded Q&A to create an ongoing digital resource for the CBU community. To learn more about the

Honouring the Namesakes

Each seminar will be formally introduced with a brief statement about Dr. Arseneau and Prof. Britten’s impact.

Additionally, as part of the CDI development, a dedicated display or digital wall near the science wing could commemorate the building and legacy of these two figures, linking the physical past with the intellectual future.

Fundraising Goal

To establish the Arseneau-Britten Seminar Series as a lasting and meaningful part of Cape Breton University’s academic life, we are seeking to raise $100,000. This fundraising goal will create a sustainable foundation for the series, helping to ensure that each year CBU can welcome distinguished speakers, engage students and faculty in meaningful dialogue and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Don Arseneau and Prof. Elmer Britten.

This goal represents more than financial support. It is an opportunity for alumni, community members and friends of CBU to invest in scientific curiosity, academic excellence and the preservation of an important part of the university’s history.

Ways to Contribute

• One-time gifts
• Multi-year pledges
• Leadership gifts
• Corporate or community sponsors

Long Term Vision

The Arseneau-Britten Seminar Series evolves into a signature feature of STEM education at CBU. As the CDI grows into a hub for innovation, this series continues to anchor the institution in its proud heritage while expanding its vision for the future.

This is not only a celebration of our past, but a powerful commitment to the values of curiosity, mentorship, and community that built science at CBU from the ground up.

 

To learn more about how you can support this initiative, please contact Ricky McCarthy at ricky_mccarthy@cbu.ca.

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