CBU Introduces Anniversary Scholar Awards to Celebrate 50 Years of Academic Excellence

Cape Breton University is marking 50 years with a spotlight on academic research as part of its golden anniversary, as five faculty are presented with newly established Anniversary Scholar Awards. One faculty member from each of CBU’s five academic schools has received $10,000 to pursue a timely research project in their area of expertise and field of study. Selected through an internal competition, the recipients will complete the work and then share their findings as part of CBU’s ongoing anniversary celebrations.

“Research plays a pivotal role in fostering academic excellence and innovation at CBU and in the community. By recognizing research contributions in this way, we honour the dedication and perseverance of our scholars and the collective efforts that drive innovation and discovery forward,” says David C. Dingwall, President and Vice-Chancellor. “For 50 years CBU has been at the forefront of research and meeting community needs here in Cape Breton, and beyond. These research projects are exceptional examples of this, and we are so proud to celebrate research in this way.”

Dr. Tanya Brann-Barrett, Associate Vice-President of Academic and Research, adds that the award celebrates and affirms CBU’s commitment to advancing research and scholarly activity, noting the research projects will foster impacts beyond data collection. 

“The Anniversary Scholars are reflecting on timely issues, representing local interests, some addressing global challenges,” says Dr. Brann-Barrett. “Congratulations to these dedicated scholars who maintain robust research programs while remaining dedicated as educators.” Dr. Brann-Barrett says each of the Anniversary Scholars will rely on student research assistants for their projects, enhancing the learning experience of CBU students.

The range of topics includes a study of how local public schools are experiencing an increase in newcomer students associated with CBU’s international student enrollment. Dr. Kristin O’Rourke, faculty in the School of Education and Health, hopes to gain insights into the gaps that might hinder the success of schools adapting to meet the needs of newcomers. Dr. O’Rourke will look at the development of tangible strategies that might be disseminated to help overcome these challenges.

In CBU’s School of Nursing, Dr. Virginia Gunn will study algorithm management (AM) in the workforce, with attention to AM in the healthcare field. Dr. Gunn says this refers to the use of software algorithms for managerial activities related to the health workforce and aspects of care delivery. The use of AM has been linked to several implications for health workers, including loss of professional autonomy, quantitative overload, increased pace and intensity, and intensified monitoring and surveillance. Dr. Gunn hopes the research will help identify strategies to minimize AM’s potential negative effects and capitalize on its proven benefits in healthcare.

Dr. Bettina Callary, Canada Research Chair in Sport Coaching and Adult Learning and faculty in the School of Arts and Social Sciences, is examining sports equity here at home. Research by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport has shown that while one in five Canadians over 15 years old has a disability, there are few para-sport programs for adolescents and adults. With the renovation and re-opening of CBU’s Canada Games Complex – the home of female and para hockey, planned for the fall of 2024, Dr. Callary will examine the progress toward this monumental achievement, in hopes of guiding others seeking to advance inclusive sports.

 

In the Shannon School of Business, Canada Research Chair in Inclusive Markets, Dr. Kevin McKague, will examine original hard copy business directories from historic credit rating agencies at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library at the University of Toronto. Dr. McKague will harvest the content connected to 14 communities, producing a Cape Breton business history book for each community, for the period of 1864-1927. This will mark a highlight to the anniversary celebrations, one that is sure to gain interest across the Island.

Dr. Xu Zhang, Canada Research Chair in Healthy Environments and Communities and Associate Professor of Chemistry, will conduct research aiming to develop an electrochemical water treatment device for removing dissolved uranium from private well water exceeding federal consumption guideline concentrations. Dr. Zhang’s work in the laboratory translates into applied science, one that informs healthy people and communities. He hopes to develop a prototype of the electrochemical device for removing uranium from fresh water during the course of this research.

CBU’s 50th anniversary celebrations feature a number of community events ranging from special guests and athletic events to alumni gatherings. All community members are encouraged to participate in the 50th festivities, including the Anniversary Scholar Presentations scheduled for November 2024.

To stay up to date on all the exciting events and initiatives planned for CBU’s 50th anniversary, visit www.cbu.ca/50