By Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
From Venezuela to CUC: A Life-Changing Transition
In 1958, a young José Thomas-Richards arrived at the Caribbean Union College (CUC) in Form Three. Born in Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela, José spoke Spanish as his native tongue and found himself in a new environment where English would become an essential part of his life.
Recounting his arrival, he shares, “My transition to CUC was a pivotal moment. It enhanced my diction in English and set the foundation for my future.”
José’s journey to CUC was sparked by his father’s chauffeur, who recommended the unique boarding school known for its stringent educational standards and emphasis on Christian values. José’s father, a petroleum engineer in Trinidad, heeded this advice, believing CUC could provide the structure his son needed.
Pictured: Col. José Thomas-Richards (Ret.)
A Transformation of Faith
Initially, José was no stranger to mischief and poor academic performance. From the bustling streets of Port of Spain to the tranquil grounds of CUC, José’s initial reaction to his new school was one of rebellion. His days at his previous high school had been filled with dancing the meringue, donning jewelry, and partaking in activities frowned upon by the stricter standards of CUC.
José admits that he was privileged in that he never had to work throughout his academic career, as his father covered his tuition from CUC all the way through medical school. This financial support gave him a lot of free time, which he admits was not always used wisely. His room leader often reminded him of Sister White’s teachings about the importance of work. Despite this, José and his friends, who were day students, often spent their free time going to the river. Yet, amidst this backdrop of teenage defiance, a significant change was on the horizon.
One of the most defining moments of José’s time at CUC was during a Week of Prayer led by Elder McEachrane. Initially, José found CUC’s tranquil atmosphere and Christian teachings to be far from “cool.” Coming from a background filled with social activities like dancing the merengue and wearing jewelry, the adjustment was challenging. However, during a Week of Prayer led by Elder McEachrane, José experienced a profound spiritual awakening. With tears streaming down his face, he accepted Christ and was baptized in the Maracas Valley River by President Percy Manuel. José humorously recalls slipping on a moss-covered stone during his baptism, pulling the pastor down with him. His friends jested about him “fighting with the devil,” but it was clear that a profound transformation had taken place.
He also credits Dean George Brown and Dr. Walter Douglas who were both instrumental and gave new meaning to Proverbs 24:3 “Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches”, which he achieved with God’s Grace.
Academic Pursuits and Professional Achievements
José graduated from CUC in 1962 with a high school diploma. He recalls being an unusual student, raised Catholic and unfamiliar with the Seventh-day Adventist lifestyle. His rowdy nature often got him into trouble, but one pivotal experience with Mrs. Kum, his English teacher, stands out. She strategically seated him next to Rosie Ward (now Dr. Rosie Ward), and when José received a distinction on the senior Cambridge exam, Rosie wryly remarked, “Even the devil knows scripture.”
At the behest of President Percy Manuel, José’s academic journey continued at Kingsway College in Canada, followed by Andrews University, and culminated in earning a degree in Osteopathic Medicine from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in 1970. His dedication and excellence were recognized with numerous awards, including the Mead Johnson Award and the Star-Spangled Banner Medallion Award.
Distinguished Career & Contributions
Colonel Thomas-Richards’ career is a testament to his dedication and resilience. He served as Commander of the 948th Forward Surgical Team during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, earning the Bronze Star for his leadership. His military service spanned 26 years, culminating in his retirement as a Senior Advisor of the United States Army Reserve Medical Corps, honored with the Legion of Merit.
As a medical professional, he completed an Orthopaedic residency and a fellowship in Hand Surgery, making significant contributions to the field. His accolades include the American Academy of Neurological and Orthopaedic Surgery and the American Board of Hand Surgery.
In addition to his military and medical careers, Colonel Thomas-Richards has been a passionate advocate for civil rights, serving as First Vice President of the NAACP and receiving multiple Humanitarian Awards. He continues to serve on the Board of Directors for The Area Agency on Aging in Palm Beach County.
Giving Back to the USC Community
Colonel Thomas-Richards’ commitment to giving back is evident through his involvement with the USC community. As a Board Member at Large for the North American Alumni Association, he continues to support and inspire the next generation.
This commitment is shared with his wife Mrs. Suzanne Thomas-Richards, who alongside Mrs. Claire Hosten, Mrs. Lorna Delancy, and Dr. Anester O. Shaw pioneered USC’s Thrift Store creating a self-sufficient initiative benefiting students and the community. The Thrift Store also provides a working lab for business students and supports the community through donated items.
Words of Wisdom & a Lasting Legacy
Now residing in Palm Beach, Florida, José continues to inspire others with his words of wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of humility, perseverance, and self-mastery. His advice to current students is profound: “Be proud and unbending in honest failure, yet humble and gentle in success. Never seek the path of comfort; learn to stand up in the storm, and demonstrate compassion on those who fail.”
Colonel José Thomas-Richards’ life is a testament to the power of transformation, faith, and education. From his rebellious teenage years to his distinguished career in medicine and the military, José’s journey is a shining example of how one can overcome adversity and achieve greatness. As he reflects on his life, he remains grateful for the foundation laid by his time at CUC, now USC, a place where he found his faith, his calling, and his path to success.
