CBU to Confer Honorary Degrees on Three Nova Scotians

Cape Breton University announced today that it will confer honorary degrees on three Nova Scotians as part of the institution’s spring 2025 convocation ceremonies, the largest in CBU’s history, with more than 3,500 graduates.

During the Spring Convocation ceremonies taking place May 26 to 30, three Nova Scotians will receive honorary degrees for their contributions to the community in the fields of business, broadcasting, communications and arts and culture. Laura Lee Langley, Nancy Regan and John Gracie will all receive the highest recognition from the university.

 “We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding individuals who have deep roots and connections to Cape Breton and who have notable careers that have impacted the province in many ways,” says CBU President & Vice-Chancellor David C. Dingwall. “CBU has been conferring honorary degrees for more than 20 years, and it is among the highest honour we can give to recognize and celebrate those who have an impact on the communities around them.”

Each individual receiving an honorary degree has shaped the community and highlighted the culture of Cape Breton through their work.

“In choosing to confer an honorary degree, Cape Breton University shines a light on those individuals and organizations that live out, in an exemplary fashion, CBU’s values of courage, cooperation and quality,” says President Dingwall. “CBU reaches out beyond its campus to recognize excellence and extraordinary achievement in those areas which embody the objectives and ideals of Cape Breton University.”

About the Honorees:

Laura Lee Langley

Laura Lee Langley is a prominent public servant from Nova Scotia with proud Cape Breton roots. Known for her extensive career in government, she served as Clerk of the Executive Council and Deputy Minister in several key departments, including the Premier’s Office under three different Premiers, and as Head of the Public Service. Langley is recognized for her leadership in fostering government transparency, public engagement, and modernizing governance strategies. A trailblazer for women in leadership, she has mentored countless young professionals and is admired for her collaborative approach to problem-solving. Laura Lee has always carried the values of her Cape Breton upbringing—community, hard work, and kindness—into every role she holds. Her dedication to public service reflects a deep commitment to improving life for Nova Scotians, while her ties to Cape Breton continue to influence her passion for building strong, connected communities across the province.

Nancy Regan

Nancy Regan, a celebrated television personality and media professional, is a proud Nova Scotian with Cape Breton family connections. Best known as the longtime host of Live at 5 on ATV (now CTV Atlantic), Nancy became one of the most recognizable and trusted broadcasters in Atlantic Canada. Beyond her career in media, she is also a sought-after public speaker, author, and advocate for mental health awareness and personal development. Nancy often credits her family ties to Cape Breton for instilling in her a strong sense of community, storytelling, and authenticity—qualities that resonated with audiences throughout her career. Whether on-screen or through her more recent work in personal coaching and writing, she demonstrates a deep pride in her East Coast roots. Nancy’s work continues to inspire others to embrace vulnerability, celebrate their heritage, and foster meaningful human connections. Her latest endeavour, “Showing up with Nancy Regan” on Eastlink TV celebrates two guiding principles in her life, authenticity and contribution.

John Gracie

John Gracie is an acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter whose Cape Breton heritage is at the heart of his music and storytelling. Born and raised in Glace Bay, Gracie has been a fixture in the East Coast music scene for decades, known for his rich, emotive voice and heartfelt ballads. His songs often reflect themes of family, home, and the simple joys of life in the Maritimes. John has earned multiple East Coast Music Awards and a loyal following across Canada and internationally. His Cape Breton roots deeply influence his musical style, blending folk, country, and traditional Maritime sounds with universal messages of love, resilience, and community pride. Beyond performing, Gracie is committed to giving back, often participating in charity events and community initiatives. His music serves as a bridge between Cape Breton’s cultural legacy and broader audiences, keeping the island’s musical spirit alive and thriving.