Bringing people together to learn has always been central to the Antigonish Movement. In the early 20th century, people from around Cape Breton and eastern Nova Scotia gathered around the kitchen table in study clubs, rural conferences, and People’s Schools to explore the socio-economic issues of the day.

Nearly 100 years later, Coady Institute and The Maples Retirement Living are building on this tradition with the Coady Institute Maples Lecture Series. The series will feature Coady faculty and guest speakers delivering lectures that highlight the challenges and opportunities facing communities around the world today, the history of the Antigonish Movement, the role of Coady Institute in advancing its values globally, and the ongoing partnership with the Town of Antigonish.

Coady Institute Executive Director Eileen Alma will speak about this history during the first session, Supporting Communities: Lessons from 98 years of Engaging Nova Scotia and Beyond. This conversation will take place at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14 in the theatre located at 31 Smith’s Way.

“Coady was born from the belief that communities thrive when people learn together, lead together, and act together,” Lynn O’Donnell, Fund Development Executive, says. “Partnership is not something we do — it is who we are.”

When approached about The Maples hosting a lecture series, longtime Coady supporter Steve Smith was excited because of The Maples’ connection to Antigonish life and history. The Maples Retirement founder and chief executive officer noted many of the people living in the community are retired faculty, staff, and community builders who shaped St. Francis Xavier University, Coady, and the region.

The series continues the Coady spirit of learning, engagement, and shared purpose that continues well into retirement.

“For nearly a century, Coady has been part of Antigonish life, walking with neighbors here and with communities around the world,” Lynn says. “Our strength has always been partnership — the power of people building a better future together.”

To goal is to have the lecture series occur four times a year. Some possible topics include:

• Climate Justice and Sustainability – linking local challenges to global movements.
• Indigenous Knowledge and Reconciliation – honoring Mi’kmaq communities and Coady’s Indigenous programming.
• Health, Wellbeing, and Community Care – reflecting both local and global experiences.
• Global Citizenship and Solidarity – stories