Journey shows big dreams start in small classrooms
North Island Eagle, October 17 2025
From the halls of Port Hardy Secondary School to the laboratories of York University, Dusty Cadwallader has carried his hometown and heritage with him every step of the way.
His recent completion of a Doctorate in Organic Chemistry reflects not only his own resilience and dedication, but also the strength of his roots.
Born and raised in Port Hardy to Calvin and Brenda (née Nelson) Cadwallader - long-standing members of the community.
It was during his time at Port Hardy Secondary School that Dusty began to discover the passions and skills that would shape his future.
He found a love for science, fueled by curiosity and the encouragement of his teachers.
At the same time, he excelled in wrestling, a sport that taught him discipline, focus, and the resilience to push through challenges.
These early experiences laid the foundation for the dedication and persistence that would carry him from small-town classrooms to some of Canada’s leading universities.
After graduation, Dusty’s journey unfolded. He started at North Island College, then went on to Thompson Rivers University and Brock University. Each step brought him new challenges and opportunities to grow.
His hard work and persistence ultimately led him to York University, where he recently completed his Doctorate in Organic Chemistry.
The road was never easy. Dusty’s success required years of commitment, long hours of study, and the determination to keep moving forward even in times of uncertainty. Along the way, the support of his partner, Alyssa McAdorey, his family, and his band, the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis (Gilford and Wakeman Sound), played an essential role in his journey.
Recently, Dusty has returned to take on a research position at the University of British Columbia. He says he is proud to return to his roots, bringing his experiences and expertise back to the province that shaped him.
Today, Dusty’s story is a source of pride for the Port Hardy community and a reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance.
It shows that even from a small, remote community, hard work, persistence, and pride in one’s roots can open doors to opportunities that may have once felt far away.
Photo — Submitted
Dusty Cadwallader recently completed his Doctorate in Organic Chemistry at York University. He has returned to take on a research position at the University of British Columbia.
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North Island Eagle, October 10 2025
This summer, the Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society partnered with the Port Hardy Farmers’ Market to support the BC Farmers’ Markets Nutrition Coupon Program and to support community food literacy through education and outreach.
Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society Food Literacy Coordinator Jeanne James-Hory joined Port Hardy Market Manager Cameron Dyck at each market to introduce and register people for the program, distribute coupons, and provide shopping advice and recipes.
More than forty local households were registered and more than $,4000 in coupons were distributed to spend at the Port Hardy Farmers’ Market.
The program has successfully:
• Supported access to fresh, local food for low-income households.
• Strengthened community connections through conversations and shared food knowledge.
• Increased food literacy by encouraging participants to try new recipes and enjoy a wider variety of vegetables.
• Created a supportive, welcoming environment where people could connect and feel valued.
“This program has been more than a food access initiative,” said Jeanne, “it has created a supportive, social space. Participants have expressed deep gratitude for the coupons and the companionship.”
At times, “more than 10 participants gathered around our booth in conversation, sharing experiences and building community,” she said.
“For some, checking in became a highlight of their week.”
Programs like this make a real difference: they put healthy food on the table, strengthen connections in the community, and support the farmers who grow our food.
This province-wide program, funded by the BC Ministry of Health, is delivered in over 80 communities across BC.
It provides coupons for fresh, local food to families, pregnant people and seniors with lower incomes, while supporting local farmers and markets.
Photo — Submitted​​
Leslie Dyck, from Dyck’s Rurban Farm, is one of the Port Hardy Farmers Market vendors participating in the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon program.