Opening Doors Through Education
Cheryl Robertson's Bursary is Helping NBCC students return to learning with confidence
For more than five decades, Cheryl M.G. Robertson has been a dedicated leader in education and community service in New Brunswick. A lifelong educator and administrator, she has contributed to the advancement of publicly funded education at every level—public schools, community college, and university—while also giving generously of her time through extensive volunteer leadership.
Cheryl’s impact is perhaps most visible at the New Brunswick Community College (NBCC), where she served as the inaugural Chair of the Board of Governors from 2010 to 2014, guiding the institution through its transition to a Crown Corporation. Her lasting influence is reflected in the Robertson Institute for Community Leadership, a signature NBCC program named in her honour. Over the years, her leadership has been recognized through numerous provincial and national honours, including her appointment to the Order of New Brunswick in 2014. She also served as an Honorary Colonel with the Canadian Army Primary Reserve’s 37 Signal Regiment for more than nine years. She currently serves on the RCL Br # 58 Executive, supporting the good work Legions do for veterans, their families and youth.
In October 2021, Cheryl established The Cheryl M.G. Robertson Bursary Fund with the Greater Saint John Community Foundation, where she previously served on the Board for a decade. Created as a permanent endowment, the bursary supports students enrolled full-time at any NBCC campus who are returning to study and demonstrate financial need, along with academic commitment, leadership, and community involvement.
Reflecting on the impact of the fund, Cheryl shares:
“When I think about the impact my NBCC Bursary has or will have, what matters most to me is knowing that the bursary is having a positive impact on some student's ability to pursue and complete her/his post-secondary education.”
That impact is already being felt. One bursary recipient wrote:
“Receiving this bursary has alleviated a significant financial burden, allowing me to concentrate on my studies and pursue my academic and career aspirations with greater focus and determination. It has not only lightened the financial load but has boosted my confidence and motivation. Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your invaluable support. I look forward to one day paying it forward and helping others achieve their educational goals just as you have done for me.”
As the Greater Saint John Community Foundation marks 50 years, Cheryl Robertson’s story reflects the lasting power of leadership rooted in service. Through her commitment to education and philanthropy, she continues to create opportunity—helping students move forward with confidence and purpose.