Dr. Bettina Callary, director of research at the new Community Sport and Health Institute at Cape Breton University, speaks during a press conference to officially open the institute at Kehoe Forum in Sydney on Thursday. JEREMY FRASER/CAPE BRETON POST Jeremy FraserArticle contentAn institute aiming to become a national leader in innovative solutions to issues related to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in community, sport and health officially opened at Cape Breton University on Thursday.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentThe Community Sport and Health Institute was introduced to members of the community during a press conference at Kehoe Forum on the Cape Breton University campus.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentThe opening of the new institute aligns with initiatives that continue to elevate the Sydney university’s leadership in sport and health, including preparations for hosting the upcoming IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship and the inaugural Equity in Coaching Conference next year.Article content“The Community Sport and Health Institute represents an important step forward for CBU as we continue to strength our leadership in community-engaged research related to sport and health,” said Dr. Bettina Callary, director of research.Article content“With a hub for evidence-based community sport leadership that purposefully draws in marginalized groups such as women, aging adults, para-sport and Indigenous participants and intentionally includes them in active for life opportunities, we have already begun to stand out as leaders across Canada and the world.”Article contentArticle contentThe institute, created earlier this year, has goals to improve access to sport, advancing inclusive coaching and leadership, strengthening community belonging and wellbeing, and supporting healthy active aging.Article contentIt will work closely with community partners across Cape Breton and Atlantic Canada and collaborate with researchers around the world.Article contentThe institute received university senate approval in January and since then has supported 14 funded research projects led by five faculty members, representing more than $300,000 in research activity. It also has contributed to 26 partner projects totaling more than $6.15 million.Article contentMore than 1,000 participants have been engaged through eight community sport and health initiatives.Article content“By combining research, expertise, community relationships and a strong commitment to social change, the institute is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact,” said Dr. Colin McLaren, associate director of research. “Our early projects show the potential for long-term benefits for both individuals and communities.”
Community Sport and Health Institute officially opens at Cape Breton University



