Wanda Robson:
Remembering a Legend
When most people are relaxing and living their golden years of life at a slower pace, Wanda Robson went in the opposite direction. She enrolled at Cape Breton University at 76 years old to pursue her lifelong dream of getting her degree. She dreamed of empowering others and seeking opportunities to learn. Not only did Wanda graduate and was awarded an Honorary Degree from CBU, she is also responsible for launching a tidal wave of social justice advocacy that has led to historical changes in our country.
The CBU Alumni family suffered a great loss with the passing of Alumni, Honorary Degree recipient and dear friend, Dr. Wanda Robson. From the history-making official pardon of her sister, Viola Desmond, by the Honourable Mayann Francis, former Nova Scotia Lieutenant Governor, to the award-winning Viola Desmond $10 banknote, Wanda Robson has been the foundation of a transformational movement. She humbly took in the attention, knowing how proud her sister would have been to witness it all.
In 2021, another chapter was written in the Wanda Robson legacy story. The establishment of a scholarship at Cape Breton University in Wanda’s name to support African Nova Scotian learners for generations to come. The Wanda Robson Scholarship will change lives for recipients in pursuit of their own dreams.
In the summer of 2021, Mr. Bill Gunn, on behalf of the Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund, approached the University with the vision of creating opportunities for African Nova Scotian students. This vision came to life on December 7, 2021, when CBU announced a $500,000 donation to CBU to establish the Wanda Robson Scholarships.
“It was important to Jeannine Deveau to name this scholarship after Wanda Robson as she understood the importance of post-secondary education and returned to gain her degree at the age of 76,” said Mr. Bill Gunn. “Her hard work and dedication to education and social justice is something that African Nova Scotian students can look to for inspiration and motivation in their journeys."
One student who has benefited from this scholarship is Olivia Karigey from Sydney Mines. "Growing up, I knew that I wanted to get a university education and make something really great for my life. If I didn't have the Wanda Robson Scholarship at Cape Breton University, that education wouldn't be possible. I am so grateful to the Jeannine Deveau Achievement Fund. It is because of their support that my future is bright, and I will be able to make an impact on the world around me," says Olivia.
Watch Olivia's MyCBU Story here.
Wanda's time as a student was driven by passion and now her dream to empower others has come full circle. Today, students who have faced adversity and have overcome so much will have their dreams supported in her honour.
Wanda will always hold a special connection with Cape Breton University. From her time as a student to her endless guidance and advice and the recent establishment of the Wanda Robson Scholarships, Wanda's legacy will be a reminder to us all of the importance of continuing social justice work and our dedication to diversity and equity.
Wanda Robson is a true inspiration and an example of making the most of life's circumstances and will be greatly missed by many.
At the family's request, gifts can be made in Wanda's honour to the Wanda Robson Scholarship fund at CBU.ca/Give
To find out more on supporting Cape Breton University, visit www.cbu.ca/alumni