International Women’s Day

To the University community,

On behalf of the Board of Governors, and myself, I would like to wish all in our community a happy International Women’s Day. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Choose to Challenge”.  Each of us has the power to challenge and call out gender inequality in our own lives. Collectively, we can also seek out and celebrate women’s achievements, recognizing the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women here in our community and around the world.

Here, at Cape Breton University, you don’t need to look far to find passionate and inspiring women making a difference each day. In every department, and among our student population, you will see dedicated women breaking boundaries, overcoming challenges and leading CBU to continued success. Under the leadership of Dr. Tanya Brann-Barrett, we are proud to be implementing the Better Together Initiative, CBU’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Today, we reflect on the countless women in our community who continue to effect change and inspire the next generation of leaders. Perhaps the most significant example is the recent historic election of Amanda McDougall as the Cape Breton Regional Municipality’s first female mayor. Mayor McDougall said it best when she said “women belong in places where decisions are being made”. Denise Allen, Vice-Chair of the CBU Board of Governors, is another shining example, recently having been named one of Atlantic Canada’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Business.

As we continue to fight against gender bias toward a more inclusive world, choosing to challenge inequality, and recognizing the contributions of women and girls in our society, will evoke true change. I invite you to visit our International Women’s Day page, where we have compiled just a few of the countless inspiring stories of women in the Cape Breton University community.

Again, happy International Women’s Day to all.

Yours very truly,

David C. Dingwall

President & Vice-Chancellor