By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is thrilled to announce its 91st Commencement Ceremony, set to take place on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at 9:00 am. This grand event will celebrate the achievements of over 400 graduates from USC’s seven campuses, united under the inspiring theme “Determined Minds, Boundless Futures.” The ceremony will be held at the USC Auditorium on the Main Campus in Maracas Valley, St. Joseph, and will also be streamed live on YouTube (youtube.com/@UoSC).
Honoring the Class of 2024
The Class of 2024, guided by their chosen aim, “Guided by Faith, Destined by His Calling,” will be joined by esteemed alumni from the classes of 1974 and 1999, who will be celebrated as USC’s gold and silver classes, respectively. This year’s graduates and returning alumni symbolize USC’s enduring legacy of excellence in education, which will mark its centennial in 2027.
For nearly a century, USC has remained committed to its educational philosophy of holistic development—encompassing the head, heart, and hand. This approach rests on the pillars of intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, cultural diversity, and spiritual nurture. Over these years, more than 32,000 alumni have embodied USC’s motto, “Beyond Excellence,” and its mission to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God and humanity through a comprehensive tertiary educational experience.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. The Honorable Keith Christopher Rowley
USC is honored to welcome Dr. The Honorable Keith Christopher Rowley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, as the keynote speaker for this year’s commencement ceremony. Dr. Rowley’s distinguished career and personal journey reflect a profound commitment to public service and scientific excellence.
Born on October 24, 1949, in Mason Hall, Tobago, Dr. Rowley was raised by his grandparents, who were prominent farmers in Tobago. He attended Bishop’s High School in Tobago, where he earned the prestigious Sylvan Bowles scholarship.
Dr. Rowley continued his academic journey at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, where he earned an MSc and PhD in Volcanic Geochemistry.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Dr. Rowley’s career as a volcanologist saw him provide critical scientific guidance and support during volcanic emergencies across the Caribbean. His expertise led him to roles as a Research Fellow and Head of Department at the Seismic Research Unit at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine.
In 1987, Dr. Rowley transitioned to public service, being appointed to the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago as a Senator. Over his nine consecutive parliamentary terms, he held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Agriculture, Lands and Marine Resources; Minister of Planning and Development; Minister of Housing; and Minister of Trade and Industry. He also served as a designated Governor for the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
Dr. Rowley’s political career includes his tenure as Leader of the Opposition from 2010 to 2015 and his leadership of the People’s National Movement (PNM) since 2010. Elected as Prime Minister in September 2015 and re-elected in August 2020, Dr. Rowley continues to serve Trinidad and Tobago with distinction.
Join Us Live
Dr. Rowley’s inspiring story and leadership will undoubtedly resonate with USC’s graduates, alumni, and the broader community. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 and to hear Dr. Rowley’s keynote address, which promises to be both motivational and thought-provoking.
Don’t miss this landmark event. Tune in live on YouTube and be part of a momentous celebration as USC proudly honors its past, celebrates its present, and looks forward to a future of “Determined Minds, Boundless Futures.”
