Office of Alumni Relations

October 8, 2005 was CUC Day in Massachusetts. Cardinal Welch, the president of the New England Alumni Chapter, and his colleagues worked hard for a very successful day of activities. The day began with song service conducted by Marjorie Shillingford-Samuels. CUC alumna, Beverly Leotaud-Hoyte, the Sabbath School superintendent, was assisted by her husband, Ronald Hoyte. She focused on the characteristics, sociological and human developmental spectrum of CUC alumni throughout the various years of the college’s existence. Norma Greaves gave the Mission Feature that highlighted a student’s conversion at CUC, brought about by the ministry of his dormitory dean. The Lesson Study, “Ephesians: Themes in Relationships”, was conducted in four classes by alumni Drs. Susan Willoughby, Bertram Pryce, Sylvan Lashley, and a friend of the college, Dr. Raynold Lewis.

Mrs. Shirley Baptiste, president of the CUC Alumni Association, North America, brought greetings and gave yeoman support to CUC. This is really appreciated as she attends the various Chapter activities and encourages alumni and friends to contribute towards Student Scholarships, to the new Residence Halls, and to other projects.

Roulton Roberts, president of the New York Chapter, also brought greetings. We were happy for the presence of other alumni from the New York Chapter: Maggie & Anderson Nurse, Janet Emtage, Vera Fields, Lloyd Chapman and other names I may have missed.

Alumna, Rizpah Clarke-Bobb Semple, gave the children’s story, and the Sabbath School’s program and the mid-day hour were blessed by heavenly music by ‘Honor in Song’, ‘Divine Connection’, and Wilton Brydson, all friends of CUC.

Referring to the verses of 2 Kings 6: 1-17, the scriptural passage, President Gardner delivered the sermon entitled “Eyes Wide Shut”. He noted that some people have their eyes wide shut in pursuit of what this world has to offer, but God is everywhere, and He reaches down and assists and makes things happen. You can also read 1 Kings 6: 1-17 and relate it to CUC and its building projects; its expansion plans; free tuition for Trinidad & Tobago students, and other changes that are to take place. When man unites with God, he is able to see the invisible. The president admonished all to take their eyes off their problems and focus on the solutions, for God is the great problem solver. God is able. Choose to stand on the Lord’s side.

In the afternoon, Dr. Gardner gave a power point presentation of his 7-year goals for Caribbean Union College, and answered questions posed by alumni and well-wishers. He gave the facts of a present increased enrollment of 1,112 and an expected increase in the years to come. Plans include two new residence halls; new Theology, Business and Education buildings; a new Gymnasium; the relocation of the Elementary and Secondary schools; a renewed thrust in Agriculture; Extension Schools in Tobago, Guyana and other locations; Marketing brooms from a Mexican firm; the aim to attain University status in 2006, and other important areas that would make CUC a more improved institution. With God at the helm, he noted, success is sure!

Aubrey London’s singing chorale from Canada delighted the day with musical selections. Their afternoon concert was well received and appreciated. We also thank his brother, Ivor at the organ, vocalists and other participants for contributing to the success of New England’s CUC Alumni Day, 2005.

Some of the other alumni present were Curlyne Alexander, Dean Darroux, Maculay Hood, Ives & Gloria Roberts, Keith Sutton, Evelyn Savory, Carolyn Drepaul-Woods and Sunil Woods. Out-of-town alumni supporters in attendance were Jackie White-Spooner, and Joan Francis, V. President of the CUC Alumni Assoc., N.A., spouses of alumni and friends in general.

Thanks go out to the church members of the Northboro Church of Seventh-day Adventists who hosted us at their church, and who gave liberally to CUC.

Thanks is extended to all those who assisted in accommodating the CUC representatives in attendance, and the out-of-town alumni as well. God bless you all!