2023 Cape Breton Business & Philanthropy Hall of Fame Inductees Announced
SYDNEY, NS – The Cape Breton Regional Chamber of Commerce (Chamber), in partnership with Cape Breton University (CBU) and the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Cape Breton Chapter (AFP-CB), is honoured to announce the 2023 inductees into the Cape Breton Business & Philanthropy Hall of Fame, presented by TD Bank. The induction of the 2023 Hall of Fame Class will be held during a gala on the evening of June 14, 2023 at the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre.
In 2023, the Chamber, CBU, and AFP-CB, are proud to induct two honorees into the Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame, one honoree into the Cape Breton Philanthropy Hall of Fame and one honoree into the newly announced Philanthropy Leadership Award. All were selected from a list of nominees submitted by both the public and business community in February/March 2023. Those chosen for the Hall of Fame are Cape Breton’s most esteemed business leaders and philanthropists who have exemplified business excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and community leadership throughout their lifetime achievements. They have paved the road for the future of Cape Breton leaders and have committed their time, energy, and mentorship to their community, which has provided inspiration for other entrepreneurs and community-minded individuals.
The 2023 Hall of Fame laureates for the Business Hall of Fame are Dr. Eileen Pottie Forrester, Founder of Forrester School of Dance. and Mr. Bruce Marsh, Past-Owner of Cape Breton Trailer Sales. Mr. Jim Kehoe and Mrs. Roma Kehoe, Owners of the Joneljim Group of Companies, will be inducted into the Philanthropy Hall of Fame and the Cape Breton Building Trades and Unionized Contractors will receive the Philanthropy Leadership Award.
In honour of the inductees, a portion of the proceeds generated from the Business & Philanthropy Hall of Fame Gala creates student awards to help them reach their goals and allow them to thrive and prosper here in our local business community. They will be awarded to students continuing their program of studies in the Shannon School of Business at Cape Breton University. Since its inception in 2004, more than $100,000 has been given to over 100 business students.
“We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding individuals and groups for their contributions to the Cape Breton community,” said Jenna Lahey, CEO of the Cape Breton Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Their commitment to excellence in business and philanthropy serves as an inspiration to all of us. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and their continued impact on our region.”
The Cape Breton Business Hall of Fame was established in 2002 to honour individuals from the Cape Breton business community who paved the road for future generations in Cape Breton through business achievement and community involvement. In 2016, the mandate of the gala Hall of Fame was broadened to recognize prominent representatives in the philanthropy community.
The Cape Breton Business and Philanthropy Hall of Fame will be held on the evening of June 14th at the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre. Tickets are available now through the Chamber and can be purchased online at https://2023cbhof.eventbrite.ca
Media Contact
Jenna Lahey
Cape Breton Regional Chamber of Commerce
902-564-6453