09/04/2026
An update to upcoming Special Meeting for the GC Foundation:
Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College Foundation will be holding a Foundation meeting on Tuesday, September 8 at 6pm in The Hall of the Clans at St. Ann’s, Victoria County (51779 Cabot Trail). Doors will open at 5p.m.
The purpose and agenda of the meeting is for the Election of Governors.
Individuals at the meeting require a Gaelic College membership to be eligible to vote.
Only members of the Foundation can attend the meeting. No media will be allowed. Memberships can be purchased onsite for $15.
The Board of Governors Nominating Committee is pleased to put forward the following updated list of names to serve on the Board of Governors:
Please note:
Fraser Patterson, Chair of the Board, has decided to step down in the role as Chair and will continue to serve on the Board as Past Chair. Board of Governor, Keith Bain, will Chair the September 8 meeting.
Bruce Morrison (3yr)
Bruce Morrison is a lifelong resident of Victoria County and has a deep personal connection to the Gaelic College. His mother, grandfather, and he himself were all employed at the facility, giving him a longstanding appreciation for the College and its important role in the community.
Mr. Morrison retired from the Province of Nova Scotia following 35 years of public service. During his provincial career, he held several management positions with responsibility for legislative and regulatory programs, gaining extensive experience in administration, governance, and public policy.
Bruce has also dedicated more than 25 years to serving on Victoria County Council, including as Warden from 2009 to 2025. Throughout his years of public service, he has been actively involved with numerous community, municipal, and provincial boards and committees, serving both as a member and in leadership roles as Chair.
With a strong understanding of the historical significance and cultural impact of Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College in Cape Breton and throughout Nova Scotia, Mr. Morrison recognizes the important role the College plays in preserving and promoting Gaelic culture and heritage. He believes the Gaelic College must continue to build on this legacy while serving as an educational, cultural, and economic catalyst for the region and the province.
Father David Rankin (3yr)
Father David Rankin is a fluent Gaelic speaker, Gaelic Singer, Cape Breton Step Dancer and Guitar Accompanist. Formerly of Mabou, Father Rankin is a Catholic Priest serving in the Margaree area. Father Rankin is a former Director of School at Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College and has a deep understanding and appreciation for Gaelic culture and language. Father Rankin holds a, Masters of Divinity with Degrees in Pontifical Theology, Education, and Celtic Studies.
Carol Ann MacDougall (3yr)
Carol Ann MacDougall is a highly respected educator and retired music teacher from Sydney, Cape Breton. A lifelong advocate for music, culture, and education, Carol Ann is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Nova Scotia Music Educators Association. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music, with majors in Piano and Education, as well as a Diploma in Guidance.Carol Ann continues to share her passion for music through teaching private piano lessons and has been a long-time instructor and dedicated supporter of Colàisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College. She is also a respected piano accompanist throughout Cape Breton, an active member of the Cape Breton Fiddlers Association, and a committed volunteer who supports numerous community organizations and initiatives.
Sean Tobin (2yr)
Sean Tobin is a lifelong resident of Millville, Cape Breton, and currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. He previously served as Chief of Staff to Jaime Battiste, MP, and as a Constituency Assistant to Mark Eyking and Pam Eyking.
Sean brings extensive experience in government relations, community engagement, and project development. Throughout his career, he has worked on a number of initiatives and files involving projects that have supported and benefited Colàisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College.
Sean holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree and is an active community volunteer. He has supported numerous organizations and community initiatives, including the Salvation Army’s Christmas Kettle Campaign. His government experience, community connections, and understanding of projects affecting the Gaelic College would make him a valuable addition to the Board.
Joey Ryan (2yr)
Joey Ryan is a resident of Stewartdale, Inverness County, and a passionate advocate for Gaelic culture, with a particular dedication to the Gaelic language. He studied at Beinn Mhàbu (Colaisde na Gàidhlig | The Gaelic College campus in Mabou) as a Cape Breton University student and, is a graduate of the Gaelic College’s An Cùrsa Bogaidh(Month-Long Immersion) and Na Gaisgich Òga (The Young Heroes) programs.
Joey Ryan is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts with a Major Political Science and Minor in Celtic Studies at St. FX University. As a young Gael from Cape Breton Island, he will bring a fresh and youthful perspective to the Board, along with a strong commitment to the preservation, promotion, and continued growth of the Gaelic language and culture.
