Learning in the Home Community: Meet Connie Moon Martin

Connie Moon Martin never imagined she would one day be earning not one, but two degrees. After graduating from high school 40 years ago, Connie will proudly walk across the stage with a Bachelor of Arts Community Studies (BACS) and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).

Connie is originally from Listuguj, Québec, a small Mi’gmaq community straddling the border of New Brunswick and Québec. She initially enrolled in a BBA program at the University of New Brunswick after high school, but did not have an opportunity to continue her academic journey. It wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic that Connie found the time and clarity to focus on her studies.

When CBU launched a new In-Community cohort in Listuguj, it felt like the right moment to make another attempt at completing her BBA and expanding her knowledge. Before attending CBU, Connie had earned Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) and Certified Aboriginal Professional Administrator (CAPA) designations through AFOA Canada. She believes concentration in Community Studies would give her a well-rounded academic foundation. “Knowing our Chief at the time graduated with a BACS degree from CBU inspired me to study in the same area,” Connie shares.

The In-Community program allowed Connie to continue to work full time for her community while studying in the evenings. She appreciates the inclusion of Elder Albert Marshall’s Two-Eyed Seeing approach, which was incorporated into every course. “It provided a meaningful opportunity to connect more with my culture and view learning through both Indigenous and Western perspectives,” she says. “It wasn’t just about textbooks; it was about learning in a way that honoured who we are and where we come from.”

With a background in finance, Connie found the BACS program provided a new lens for decision-making. Its hands-on nature allowed her to apply what she was learning to real-life issues in Listuguj. “The instructor created a space where we could bring our community experiences into the conversation, which made the learning feel more relevant and grounded,” shares Connie. “I especially appreciate how Indigenous values, like respect, reciprocity and relationship-building, were woven into this course.”

Going back to school was a challenging yet rewarding experience for Connie. She had to relearn how to write academic papers, build confidence in presentations and adjust to new study methods. “Balancing full-time work, school and social life was exhausting at times,” she says. Despite feeling overwhelmed, especially when faced with tight deadlines or difficult topics, she persevered. “I kept going because of the support I had and because I wasn’t alone. The professors were patient, the support staff always checked in, and the sense of community in our cohort kept me grounded.”

Besides her partner, family and friends, her biggest support came from Stephanie McCormick, In-Community Program Director. “I will always remember the meeting we had in her office and her reassurance that everything would work out,” Connie shares. “Knowing she was always just an email away to guide us and support us was comforting. I will forever be grateful for all she has done for me.”

Connie credits her academic journey at CBU with renewing her confidence and reinforcing the value of lifelong learning. She has strengthened her connection with the community and is surrounded by a circle of classmates who have become like family. “It helped shape me to be the kind of leader I aspire to be, one who leads with respect, accountability and a strong connection to community values,” Connie says. “Success is sweeter when it’s shared with those who lift you up, and even better when you walk the path with a strong and supportive community beside you.”

For Connie, this milestone is not the end; it’s a new beginning. She plans to continue supporting and empowering her community. “I want to use what I’ve learned to guide sustainable growth, mentor the next generation of leaders and help ensure that our systems reflect both accountability and our shared values,” she adds.

Connie encourages anyone who considers returning to school to go for it. “CBU is a supportive and welcoming place where you will grow, learn and discover just how much you can do,” she says. “The professors are amazing and take the time to know who you are and where you come from; they truly want to see you succeed. The support staff is just as amazing, often becoming your biggest cheerleaders throughout your journey.”

With graduation around the corner, Connie sends a heartfelt message to her fellow graduates. “As you close this chapter and step forward into the next, take a moment to honour your journey,” she says. “This achievement is not only yours, but it also belongs to your families, your communities and the ancestors who walked before you. Congratulations on your achievement!”

Congratulations to Connie and the entire graduating class of Spring 2025!