Celebrating 50 Years!
Our Past. Our Story. Our Future.
As we celebrate an extraordinary milestone - Cape Breton University's 50th Anniversary, we unfold a long and significant history that weaves tradition, culture, education and perseverance into one.
Our story, rooted in humble beginnings, began with the formation of the Xavier Junior College. Years of innovating and growing to meet the post-secondary needs of the Island, College of Cape Breton, the Nova Scotia Eastern Institute of Technology, and the University College of Cape Breton and finally Cape Breton University were realized.
Over five decades, the institution has evolved, shaped by the people, cultures, and the resilient spirit of Cape Bretoners and newcomers alike. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we aim to showcase the unique stories that have made CBU the vibrant and dynamic institution it is today.
Catherine Arseneau, Dean of Library and Cultural Resources speaks at CBU's Inaugural Lecture on January 23, 2024. This unique and historic celebration is a tribute to 50 years of academic excellence at CBU, inspired by her father, Dr. Donald F. Arseneau’s first inaugural lecture, “Xavier Traditions,” in 1974, a defining moment in our journey from the College of Cape Breton (CCB) to the University College of Cape Breton (UCCB), and now, our beloved CBU.
CBU has been the starting point for many peoples’ journeys, as an institution built on grassroots collaboration, cultural exchange, and the unwavering spirit of Cape Breton. From its inception as Xavier Junior College in 1951 to becoming the first University College of its kind in Canada, our institution has played a pivotal role in the academic exploration, research, and application of community economic development, Indigenous culture and knowledge, vocational training, and cultural expression.
We invite you, our alumni around the world, to join us for our many exciting events, activities, and special projects throughout the year. Whether you are a graduate from our predecessor institutions, a part of CBU's early years, or a member of our vibrant community today, your participation is integral to making this celebration truly special.
Join us in reliving the memories, through our digital yearbooks, acknowledging the milestones, and creating new stories that will shape the next 50 years of Cape Breton University's legacy. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms as we honour our 50 years of resilience, growth, and community spirit.
CBU Basketball Alumni Lindsey MacIntosh, Tamara Alleyne, Kelsey Johnston and Luciann MacDonald wearing their retro jerseys at the launch of the 50th Anniversary basketball jersey event.
To learn more about CBU’s 50th anniversary and to participate in the many exiting events and initiatives, visit www.cbu.ca/50