Laurianne Sylvester

Dean, Unama'ki College

Laurianne Sylvester is Dean of Unama’ki College at Cape Breton University (CBU). She is a Mi’kmaw woman, born and raised in Membertou First Nation. Dean Sylvester lives her life immersed in the language, culture, and traditional practices of the Mi’kmaq. She has a deep connection to Indigenous communities locally, provincially, and nationally. This includes over 25 years of First Nation education, teaching, advocating, promoting, and supporting Indigenous peoples, especially fellow educators, Elders, and students. Sylvester’s educational and leadership journey began in her home community, Membertou, as an elementary school teacher; later, she served as Vice Principal of Membertou Elementary School. She continued as the Director of Academic Services at Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey for 14 years before joining CBU. In her current role, she serves on many committees as a supportive voice for Indigenous Education. Sylvester holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education and two Masters Degrees in Education