Cape Breton Accents

Episode 8: Lynn LeVatte – Preparing Educators for a Changing World

In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, President David Dingwall is joined by Dr. Lynn LeVatte, Assistant Professor in CBU’s School of Education, to explore how educators are being prepared for the classrooms of today and tomorrow.

Dr. LeVatte shares insights on CBU’s Bachelor and Master of Education programs, emphasizing the importance of preparing educators through both academic and hands-on learning. The conversation touches on the powerful collaboration between education and healthcare professionals, including social workers, to support students holistically.

They also delve...

In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, President Dingwall sits down with William Bowers as he shares his powerful journey from South Africa to Canada. Driven by his early experiences growing up during apartheid, William was determined to pursue a career focused on community upliftment, a goal that led him to Cape Breton University’s MBA in Community Economic Development program.

William reflects on the cultural differences he experienced, from South Africa’s highly competitive, individualistic environment to Canada’s emphasis on collaboration and community support. As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of CBU’s MBA in CED, Wil...

Ben Smith – Playing it Forward

In this heartwarming episode of Cape Breton Accents, President Dingwall sits down with Ben Smith, a two-time CBU Alumnus and last year’s valedictorian. Raised in Curaçao and now finishing his second degree at CBU, Ben shares how music, community and mentorship have shaped his experience both inside and outside the classroom.

From his decision to move to Cape Breton, to the deep impact of his professors and the sense of belonding he found through CBU’s BACS program, Ben’s story is one of passion...

Shashwat Trivedi – Rooted in Community

In this episode, President Dingwall sits down with Shashwat Trivedi, a CBU alumni and the University’s Communications and Social Media Specialist. Originally from India, Shashwat shares his journey from international student to full-blown Caper.

Together, they reflect on Cape Breton’s deep sense of community, the challenges and triumphs of navigating permanent residency and the power of authentic storytelling in helping others feel seen, heard and welcomed.

Listen now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, President David Dingwall sits down with award-winning Mi’kmaq musician, Morgan Toney. Known for blending traditional Mi’kmaq songs with Cape Breton’s fiddling tradition, Morgan’s music has gained national and international recognition.

They discuss how CBU helped shape Morgan’s passion for music, learning the Mi’kmaq language through song and what makes CBU such a welcoming place to study.

Learn more at cbu.ca/podcast.

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Women’s hockey is making waves at CBU, and team captain Leila Ludyka is leading the charge! In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, Leila talks about her role with the Capers Women’s Hockey Team, coaching with the Blizzards Hockey Association and her exciting research with Dr. Bettina Callary.

Tune in now, and then catch Leila on the ice this weekend for the ACHA championship hosted by CBU! Visit cbu.ca/capershockey for more info.

In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, we sit down with Rabiat Yusuf, an international student from Nigeria who has embraced every opportunity at Cape Breton University. Rabiat shares her experience adjusting to life in Canada, working on campus and the steps she’s taking on her path to Permanent Residency.

Tune in to hear about the challenges and triumphs of studying abroad, the importance of community and how CBU is helping students like Rabiat build a future in Canada.

Listen now on Youtube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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Welcome to the very first episode of Cape Breton Accents!

In this debut episode, Cape Breton University President and Vice-Chancellor, David Dingwall, sits down with CBU student, Nolan Neville. Nolan shares his journey to Cape Breton University, what it’s like to be part of a university that feels like family and how his role in the Welcome Centre helps new students navigate life at CBU.

From balancing athletics with academics to the unique community spirit that sets CBU apart from larger universities, Nolan’s story will leave you inspired - and...