Annette Verschuren – ContributedArticle contentAnnette Verschuren is stepping down as Cape Breton University chancellor after two decades in the post.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 contentVerschuren, who was raised on a dairy in North Sydney, began her business career as a development officer with the Cape Breton Development Corp. and launched Michaels of Canada before rising to international prominence as president of The Home Depot Canada where she oversaw the company’s Canadian operations grow from 19 to 179 stores from 1996-2011, increasing revenue from $600 million to $6 billion.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentShe served as the ceremonial head of CBU since 2004, making her the longest-serving chancellor in Canadian history.Article content“Annette Verschuren’s dedication to Cape Breton University, to Cape Breton Island and to Nova Scotia is extraordinary. She has been a tireless advocate, a source of inspiration for our students, and a leader who embodies the values of service and excellence,” CBU president and vice-chancellor David Dingwall said in a media release. “Her influence reaches well beyond our island. She is well respected across the country as a business leader, philanthropist, and champion of education. Annette will continue her connection with CBU as co-chair of the Forever CBU Campaign.”Article contentVerschuren, who was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2011 for her contributions to the retail industry and corporate social responsibility, is currently chair and CEO of NRStor Inc., a company develops and manages energy storage projects.Article contentArticle content‘GREATEST HONOURS’Article content“Serving as Chancellor of Cape Breton University is one of the greatest honours of my life. I am deeply proud of the resilience and determination of this institution and the people who make it so special,” Verschuren said. “While CBU, like many universities at the current time, is facing challenges, I am confident that we will persevere, as we always have, because of the strength of our institution’s leadership, creativity, hard work, and the committed heart of this community. I would also like to thank my husband, Stan Shibinsky, for his steady support and love during my time as Chancellor.”Article contentCBU board of governors chair Denise Allen called Verschuren’s 20-year tenure “nothing short of extraordinary.”Article content“Her dedication to our students, her pride in Cape Breton, and her vision for what our university can achieve will continue to shape CBU for generations to come. As a strong and passionate ambassador for Cape Breton University, she proudly carried our story and spirit far beyond our campus. We are deeply grateful for her remarkable impact and honoured to have shared this journey with her.”Article content-30-Article content
Verschuren steps down as Cape Breton University chancellor
