Cape Breton University has bold and ambitious plans for the future of the institution and Cape Breton Island. In just a few short years, enrollment at CBU has increased more than 50 per cent. This unprecedented growth has stimulated our economy and added to our vibrant and diverse community.

Students are coming to CBU from across the Island and around the world. CBU students play a special part in our communities. Our collective success and future prosperity depend on each other and the support of friends, donors and alumni.

As a university dedicated to academic excellence, we must continue to provide our students with outstanding experiential learning and undergraduate research opportunities in a supportive academic environment.

On February 23, President David Dingwall, alongside Forever CBU campaign co-chairs, Annette Verschuren and Lou Maroun, officially launched the institution's largest fundraising campaign in its nearly 50-year history, The Forever CBU campaign.

The Forever CBU campaign is a $50 million national fundraising campaign that is part of an overall $150 million investment into the campus.

The campaign is rooted in CBU's strategic, academic and research plan and will meet the needs and demands of a growing and diverse student body. Through a collaboration of employees, government, community, alumni and donors, the Forever CBU campaign will change the educational landscape of the Island and create opportunities for growth.

The Forever CBU Campaign aims to break down barriers to education, increase access to under-represented groups, and enhance student support, infrastructure, and programming.

The campaign focuses on three areas of support:

• Scholarships and bursaries to meet the needs of a diverse student body.
• Campus and community life in health and wellness, sport and recreation, creative arts.
• Centre for Discovery and Innovation.

As a university dedicated to academic excellence, we must continue to provide our students with outstanding experiential learning and undergraduate research opportunities in a supportive academic environment.

Co-chairs, Annette Verschuren and Lou Maroun are committed to the success of CBU. Annette Verschuren is the CEO and chair of NRStor and is Chancellor of CBU, while Lou Maroun is chairman of Sigma Real Estate Advisors/Sigma Capital Corporation and the current chair of the Shannon School of Business Advisory Board. Both Annette and Lou have committed one million dollars each to the campaign.

CBU's story is one of hard work, perseverance and community support. CBU’s story is far from over and this next chapter is bold, ambitious and impactful. As we get ready to celebrate CBU’s 50th anniversary in 2024, we are inviting you to join us in creating a campus we can all be proud of.

We ask that you join us as we create a strong, sustainable future for our students – our future leaders – our university, and our island home. To give and to learn more, visit www.ForeverCBU.ca today.