My CBU Story: Levi Denny

Levi Denny originally made his way to Cape Breton University for the Bachelor of Engineering Transfer Program. Only a short commute from his hometown of Eskasoni, and with promised Indigenous support systems, Levi knew it would be the right school for him. At the time, he didn’t realize just how important being close to home would be. During his second year at CBU, Levi became a father. While adjusting to fatherhood, he discovered CBU’s Bachelor of Science Program was a better fit. Now he is less than a week away from graduating from the program with a major in Mathematics.

Levi says becoming a father during his education encouraged him to work even harder. He was not only learning how to parent a newborn, but also dedicating extra time to his studies in order to excel. “I knew I had to perform well in school so I could graduate and provide for my family,” Levi explains. “They’re very happy and proud that I’m graduating with a university degree.”

Looking back, Levi says Calculus and Real Analysis were his two favorite classes. He extends thanks to James Preen and Scott Rodney, CBU Professors of Mathematics. “Both professors believed in me and saw the potential that I had, even if I didn’t see it at the time,” he shares. When he wasn’t busy with class work, Levi enjoyed hanging out in The Pit with his friends. He says it’s a great spot for students to have lunch and play pool or ping pong while decompressing and processing the information they’ve learned throughout the day.

Currently, Levi works as a Fisheries Analyst at the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat. His goal moving forward is to use his degree to work in the marine science field. Levi believes he is leaving CBU well prepared to work in a field he enjoys and is interested in. “Unama’ ki College is a great support system. Everyone is welcome and there are tutors to help you in almost every course,” Levi says. “My time at CBU has taught me to believe in myself and if I keep working, everything will work out.”

Levi is saddened to be leaving CBU without experiencing the convocation ceremony in-person, but adds, “At the end of the day, my degree will still be framed on the wall.” He says he will miss the community aspect of CBU and is thankful to have felt so welcomed by everyone in the CBU community. To his fellow graduates, Levi says, “I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours!”

Congratulations to Levi and the Fall 2020 Graduating Class!