When Dr. Carl Marshall visited the future home of the Cape Breton Medical Campus, he saw the future of healthcare in his home communities.

Dr. Marshall, originally from Potlotek First Nation, has taken on the role of Academic Director, Indigenous Health at the new campus in Unama’ki. For him, the position is about more than curriculum, it’s about connection.

“I have always felt a deep connection to our communities here in Cape Breton,” he says. “Working to support the health and wellbeing of my people has been very fulfilling. I’m honored to now extend that support to our future community doctors”.

Dr. Marshall’s own journey began at Cape Breton University, where he completed a Bachelor of Science, Major in Biology, before moving on to McMaster University to complete his doctorate of Medicine, and a family medicine residency through Memorial University. His sights were always set on returning home. Today, he balances his new academic role with a thriving practice at the Eskasoni Health Centre, serving the largest Mi’kmaq community in the world.

This fall, his path comes full circle as the Cape Breton Medical Campus officially welcomed its first class of students in August. Of the 30 new medical students who began their studies, almost half are from Cape Breton and 6 are CBU alumni. For Dr. Marshall, their presence is proof that the campus is already achieving one of its most important goals: keeping talented future doctors rooted in rural Nova Scotia.

“Having so many students from here, including CBU graduates, is incredibly meaningful,” Dr. Marshall explains. “When learners train where they live, they’re more likely to stay and practice here. That can transform healthcare access in Cape Breton and other rural sites across Nova Scotia”.

For the students, many of whom grew up in the same communities they will one day serve, Dr. Marshall’s presence offers not just academic guidance, but an example of what’s possible. His own career is a testament to the power of coming home and of using education to give back.

As he looks ahead, Dr. Marshall is focused on ensuring Indigenous perspectives are woven throughout the program. “It’s important that our future doctors understand the communities they serve, and that includes understanding their cultures and traditions, no matter their cultural background” he says.

With the first class underway, the Cape Breton Medical Campus is alive with new energy. Dr. Carl Marshall; Alumni, doctor, educator, and community leader, is helping to light the path for the next generation of physicians.

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