About
Tom Urbaniak is a Professor of Political Science and Director of the Tompkins Institute at Cape Breton University. His expertise spans Canadian politics, public policy, economic development, municipal governance, and Polonia studies. He has authored five books and numerous articles on topics including heritage conservation, community development, and diaspora communities. Dr. Urbaniak actively engages with diverse communities, particularly the Polish communities in Atlantic Canada, and serves as a respected media analyst in English, French, and Polish. He has led national organizations like the National Trust for Canada and Faith & the Common Good. His contributions to community service were recognized with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.
His research interests focus on the intersection of public policy and civic engagement, with emphasis on municipal governance challenges in economically disadvantaged regions. He explores strategies for linguistic and cultural revitalization in small diaspora communities, drawing lessons from case studies in Canada. His work frequently bridges academic analysis with practical community development initiatives.
Dr. Urbaniak’s publications reflect a thematic focus on urban governance, heritage preservation, and leadership studies. Notable works include analyses of mayoral leadership in North America and comparative studies of Polish communities in industrial cities. His scholarship emphasizes actionable solutions for community resilience and democratic participation.
He is a frequent commentator on Canadian political issues, contributing to media discourse across multiple languages. His leadership roles in non-profit organizations highlight a commitment to fostering collaboration between civil society and governmental institutions.
