Allison Deer Reflects on Community and Celebration Ahead of Indigenous Alumni Gathering

Allison Deer, a proud Mohawk woman from the Kahnawake community in Quebec and a 2012 graduate of Cape Breton University, is looking forward to the upcoming Indigenous Alumni Gathering. This special event, presented by the Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, brings together Indigenous CBU alumni and the 2025 Indigenous graduating class for a shared celebration of achievement and community.

As a Board Member with the CBU Alumni Association, Allison is invested in the success of this event, which builds on the legacy of Indigenous education at CBU. “This gathering is an opportunity to honour the resilience, accomplishments and contributions of Indigenous alumni while also welcoming the newest graduates into our alumni family,” she says. Having completed her MBA in Community Economic Development at CBU, Allison recognizes the pivotal role the University has played in shaping her career and leadership within Indigenous communities across Canada.

With more than 40 years of experience in Community and Economic Development, Allison brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for empowering Indigenous communities. She believes events like this gathering are essential for strengthening bonds among alumni, celebrating Indigenous achievements and fostering opportunities for future Indigenous students. “Recognizing these milestones not only boosts confidence but also reinforces pride in our University and the impact it has had on Indigenous students,” she reflects.

This year’s Indigenous Alumni Gathering is particularly meaningful as it merges with the Indigenous Grad Banquet, creating a first-of-its-kind event at CBU. Allison sees this as a powerful step toward strengthening alumni connections and expanding mentorship opportunities between graduates and students. “I’m excited to reconnect with fellow Indigenous alumni, celebrate our shared achievements and support the next generation of Indigenous leaders,” she says. “This event showcases the lasting impact of CBU and Unama’ki College on our students and communities.”

As an advocate for Indigenous alumni representation within the broader university network, Allison is committed to ensuring that Indigenous graduates have a strong presence at CBU. She sees the Indigenous Alumni Gathering as a significant step toward building a vibrant, engaged alumni community. “This event is a testament to the strength of our alumni and the power of education in transforming lives. I’m honoured to be a part of it.”

Cape Breton University is proud to host this unique event, bringing Indigenous alumni and graduates together to celebrate past achievements and future success. To learn more about the Indigenous Alumni Gathering and how you can participate, visit cbu.ca/indigenous-alumni