Building a Foundation to Serve

From a young age, Cape Breton University Alumnus, Jonathan Kelly, knew he wanted to pursue a career that would allow him to serve his community. Now, as an Arson Investigator for the Cape Breton Regional Police Service (CBRPS), he’s doing just that.
Jonathan grew up in Glace Bay and chose to study at CBU because it allowed him to remain close to his family and friends while attending university. He enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts program and graduated in 2005 with a Major in Political Science and a Minor in English. Jonathan also earned a certificate in Public Administration with a concentration in Law and Policy Study.
During his time at CBU, Jonathan discovered an interest in working with youth and at-risk communities and wanted to explore a career in which he would be able to aid and support such groups. At the time, he was interested in both policing and teaching as career choices and ultimately chose the path of education.
Following graduation, Jonathan continued his post-secondary education at Acadia where he obtained a Bachelor of Education degree in 2007 and spent several years working as a substitute teacher. It was during this time that Jonathan began to reflect on his prior interest in policing. Though he was happy in the education field, the thought of a career in law enforcement continued to pique his interest.
Jonathan had several friends who were successfully employed in the field of law enforcement and had worked closely with liaison officers at the schools where he substituted. After gathering some information from those resources and weighing his options, Jonathan decided to return to school.
After graduating from the Atlantic Police Academy in Summerside, PEI, in 2011, Jonathan secured a position with the CBRPS and began his policing career in January of 2012.
Reflecting on his educational journey, Jonathan says he would encourage others who are interested in law enforcement to begin their journey at CBU. “My time at CBU helped me to develop strong communication skills, decision making abilities and time management skills that I have used throughout my career,” says Jonathan.
Jonathan also credits CBU with providing him the opportunity to volunteer in his community and complete his studies at the same time. He remembers CBU as a community in itself, where he got to know the other students in his program and engage in campus life.
Jonathan says that having an undergraduate degree along with demonstrated work experience and volunteerism is looked upon favourably when applying for a position in law enforcement.
Now, Jonathan is an Arson Investigator with the CBRPS, investigating arsons that occur within the CBRM and assisting Patrols, the Traffic Section and Major Crime with more complex investigations. Jonathan’s strong educational foundation at CBU helped him to develop the key skills that are now allowing him to excel in his field.