Returning Home to Pursue Passions – Meet Tammy Cadegan

Born and raised in Port Hawkesbury, CBU alumni, Tammy Cadegan, took the trip to Sydney twice a week during her high school days so she could practice with the Capers volleyball team. Little did she know then, that after moving to Fort McMurray in her early twenties and starting a family, she would eventually return home to Cape Breton and reconnect with CBU in a way that would change her life.

“When I moved back to Cape Breton I was inspired to follow my passion for technology and took the diploma program at CBU as an upgrade for my teaching license. It was close to home and online, and the asynchronous program made the workload easier to manage with a busy family,” says Tammy. “After completing the program I went on to work as a sessional instructor at the University, which has made me feel deeply rooted to CBU.” Tammy says she feels a great sense of connection with the University and what it represents as an institution giving voice to students and employees.  

In addition to her work as a sessional instructor for the Bachelor of Education program, Tammy works full-time as a Vice Principal at Harbourside Elementary, a job she finds immensely rewarding. “I love my job. I wake up every morning knowing that every day is going to be different,” she begins. “The staff and students at Harbourside are the absolute best; their passion and commitment is what drives me. I do what I can to make a positive difference in the students’ lives and so watching them thrive, in a multitude of capacities, is so gratifying.” 

Tammy’s family ties to CBU run deep. Her sister, Angela, also taught in the BEd program at the University, while her father-in-law, Kent, is a physician at the Newcomer Clinic on campus. Her own father, Carson Dingwell, is a graduate of CBU’s predecessor, Xavier Junior College.

As a CBU alumni, Tammy has been able to stay connected to a supportive group of hard-working professionals who are committed to excellence and making a positive impact in Cape Breton. She considers it a privilege to be an alumni and feels a sense of commitment to the next generation, which is what led her to work as a sessional instructor and volunteer as a volleyball and track and field coach. “I have the unique opportunity to contribute back to CBU, through mentorship and supporting various initiatives,” she says. “I love having the chance to bring real-world knowledge to the classroom, connecting theory with practice, trying to improve the student experience and helping shape future teachers.”

Life can often get busy for Tammy and her family, but she chooses to smile, stay positive and continue moving forward. What helps most is the support from her husband, Chris, and their three children, Kaleigh, Ainsley and Breton, alongside her parents, sister and in-laws. “We try to lead by example; having a healthy lifestyle with sports and taking on life with a positive attitude is really important to both of us,” Tammy says. “We try not to judge others and expect the same from our kids. Family support is everything and we are very proud of all three of our children.”

Aspiring young athlete, student, instructor or coach, Tammy has certainly done it all at CBU with more undoubtedly on the way as she continues her journey. Tammy is living proof that no matter how far you go or how long you are away for, you’ll always be a Caper and CBU will be ready to welcome you back with open arms whenever you’re ready.