Robert Sampson

Cape Breton University is delighted to honour and recognize a man who has dedicated his career of more than 35 years to advocating for his client’s best interests and has been commited to giving back to his community and fostering economic growth, Mr. Robert Sampson.

He began his educational journey at Dalhousie University, graduating with a Commerce degree. After the first year of his degree, Robert returned home to Cape Breton and established a Sub Shop, which he operated for four years, employing more than 60 people with four locations.

Deciding he wanted to further his education, Robert enrolled in the Dalhousie School of Law. After completing his law degree, Robert returned home to Cape Breton and began practicing business-related law, combining his passion for business, entrepreneurship and law.

Robert is a founding partner of Sampson McPhee, a local law firm that with his partners, has grown into one of Cape Breton’s largest law firms. It is a multi-faceted practice with a broad client base that includes a provincial, national and international scope. From fisherman, farmers, labour relations, small business owners to CEOs, Robert’s clients have come to know and benefit from a passionate ally. He practices primarily in the areas of corporate and commercial law, estate planning, and real estate.

Aside from his dedication and skill as a lawyer, Robert is particularly proud of the role he plays in giving back to the community, volunteering his time and providing advice to many community organizations. For his dedication and impact on the community, Robert was inducted into the Cape Breon Business Hall of Fame in 2013 and awarded the Irving Schwartz Male Business Person of the Year in 2018.

In addition to his involvement in various local economic growth activities and boards, he served as the Chair of the Celtic Colours International Festival and has held the position of Chair of the Board of Governors at Cape Breton University. During his time as Chair of the CBU board, Robert played a key leadership role as the University navigated it’s way through a global pandemic and managed record-breaking growth.

Robert currently resides in Northside East Bay with his wife, Ginny. Robert has three children, Dave, Scott and Danielle and two cherished granddaughters, Audrey and Sophie.

Cape Breton University confers the degree Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, on a man who has used his dedication to family, community and culture to guide him through a successful and impactful career in law, Mr. Robert Sampson.