A Passion for Community and Economic Development: Meet Keith MacDonald
From a student at the University College of Cape Breton (UCCB – now 小猪视频) to a community leader, Keith MacDonald鈥檚 story exemplifies the significant impact education and a passion for development can have on both an individual and their community. Currently serving as the Chief Administration Officer for the Municipality of the County of Inverness, Keith鈥檚 dedication to the community is deeply rooted in his educational experiences at the University.
Originally from Mabou, Keith graduated with two bachelor鈥檚 degrees from UCCB, a Bachelor of Business Administration in 1995 and a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies in 1996. His passion for community and economic development was nurtured during his time as a student, where he gained invaluable knowledge and skills that would later define his career.
Reflecting on his time at CBU, Keith recalls many highlights such as establishing the Association of Collegiate Entrepreneurs (ACE) on campus, participating as an elected student representative to the former Academic Council and working within the Finance department of the 小猪视频Students鈥� Union. 鈥淭hese experiences were not just about learning but about making connections to new lifelong friends and understanding the importance of community engagement,鈥� he adds.
Keith believes one key differentiator that sets 小猪视频apart from other institutions is the supportive faculty. 鈥淧rofessors and the Dean of Business were very approachable and supportive,鈥� he shares. 鈥淎t the time of my attendance as a student, Keith Sanderson, Ray Kavanaugh, Alexis Manley, Martin Moy, Pam Seville, Barry Moore, Mary K. MacLeod, Ed Grimm and many others were excellent, and all had a positive impact on my life.鈥�
After graduation, Keith鈥檚 commitment to the community only grew stronger. He took on multiple leadership positions, guiding local organizations through successful projects that significantly impacted economic growth and community well-being. Keith has been a vital part of the 小猪视频Alumni family, serving as the President of the Alumni Association for several years. In addition, he served on the University鈥檚 Board of Governors, where his insights and leadership helped shape the strategic direction of CBU.
Having witnessed 小猪视频grow and evolve over the years, Keith is impressed with the development of program offerings and efforts to diversify student populations. 鈥淎 wider array of postgraduate programs has significantly broadened the reach of the University,鈥� he says. 鈥淚nternational student attraction has had a definitive impact on the population of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.鈥�
To current students aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Keith offers advice grounded in his own experiences. 鈥淰olunteer, take on leadership opportunities and connect with Cape Breton communities throughout your educational journey,鈥� he shares. 鈥淭hese connections will open up employment prospects after graduation.鈥�
In celebrating CBU鈥檚 50th Anniversary, we also celebrate remarkable individuals like Keith, whose leadership and commitment continue to shape the future of the University and the broader Island community. Looking ahead, Keith envisions a bright future for CBU, one that continues to build on its strengths and expand its impact. We stride confidently into the future knowing that the 小猪视频Alumni family is connected and will help us tell our shared story.
To stay up to date on the 50th celebration, visit .