Note from the Desk of the Commissioner: Celebrating 60 years of excellence — CCG College Homecoming and renaming
September 12, 2025 – Defence Stories
Dear colleagues,
Recently, we marked a special milestone in the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) history—the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Coast Guard College in Sydney, Nova Scotia. The Homecoming Celebration brought together College personnel, alumni, and their families for two days of connection, reflection, and celebration.
I was pleased to join the festivities and reconnect with friends and colleagues as we remembered our years at this unique learning institution.
As part of the celebrations and our continued commitment to excellence in maritime education and training, the CCG signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland. This partnership will foster collaboration in curriculum development, joint training programs, applied research, and professional development initiatives. The signing of the MOU set a meaningful tone for the weekend’s Homecoming festivities, highlighting the College’s forward-looking vision and its role in shaping the future of maritime service.
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Dr. Paul M. Brett, Vice-President of Memorial University, and Mario Pelletier, Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, signing a Memorandum of Understanding.
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From left to right: David Gerbasi, Director of Studies, CCG Academy; Dr. Paul M. Brett, Vice-President, Memorial University; Mario Pelletier, Commissioner, Canadian Coast Guard; Marc Mes, Deputy Commissioner, CCG Programs; Dena Richardson, Executive Director, CCG Academy; and David Musseau, Director General, Operational Personnel.
Following the signing of the MOU, I had the privilege of attending the Long Service Awards Ceremony to recognize employees for their years of dedicated service and commitment to the public service, as well as meeting with cadets. We held a Q&A session, and they were ready to “drill me” with some very good questions!
The Homecoming Celebration kicked off with a meet and greet and a delicious BBQ, followed by Saturday’s celebrations with the traditional cannon firing and a reunion dinner. It was nice to see everyone exchanging and sharing cherished memories throughout the weekend. Thank you to everyone who made this celebration so special.
As part of this milestone, I’m proud to share that the Canadian Coast Guard College has officially been renamed the Canadian Coast Guard Academy. This new name reflects the institution’s continued commitment to delivering specialized, state-of-the-art maritime education, training, and services. It also recognizes the Academy’s role in shaping excellence, leadership, and innovation in maritime service across Canada.
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Canadian Coast Guard Commissioner Mario Pelletier shares remarks during the Homecoming celebration.
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Canadian Coast Guard College alumni wearing their vintage Coast Guard College jackets.
I invite you to read more in the news release, which highlights the significance of this change and the Academy’s enduring impact. I also encourage you to visit our e-book on the Canadian Coast Guard Academy, which showcases the institution as a renowned world-class marine training institution.
Congratulations to everyone at the Academy—and to all who have contributed to its legacy over the past six decades. Here’s to the next chapter of excellence in service to Canadians.
Mario Pelletier
Commissioner
Canadian Coast Guard
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