By Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In this Alumni Spotlight, we follow the inspiring journey of Dr. Roy Adams, a distinguished alumnus of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), formerly known as Caribbean Union College (CUC). Born in Carriacou, a small Grenadine island attached to Grenada, Dr. Adams’ path to CUC and his subsequent contributions to the community showcase a life dedicated to faith, education, and service.
Early Years and the Call to Ministry
Dr. Adams’ journey began in the picturesque yet humble setting of Carriacou. When it was time for him to pursue secondary education, he was assigned to the Grenada Boys Secondary School (GBSS). This meant leaving his family and moving to Grenada, where he lived with the Davidson family, members of the St. George’s Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Reflecting on his early encounters with the Seventh-day Adventist faith, Dr. Adams recalls attending evangelistic meetings in Carriacou in a public space, because the Adventist church building has been flattened in a hurricane.
These meetings planted the seeds of faith in his heart, even though his family held deep prejudices against Seventh-day Adventists.
While living with the Davidsons in St. George’s, he attended church with them and ultimately decided to be baptized at Grand Anse Beach, a choice made discreetly to avoid further conflict with his disapproving father. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his spiritual journey and a deepening commitment to his faith.
Despite his newfound faith, Dr. Adams initially resisted the call to ministry. A powerful appeal following a Youth Congress sermon in Port of Spain, Trinidad left him trembling, knowing he was being called to pastoral work. It was during the restless night that followed, a night plagued by cockroaches, that he fully surrendered to God’s calling. In a moment of divine clarity, he accepted his path to ministry, leading him to enroll at CUC in 1961 after raising funds by teaching at Glamorgan High School in Tobago.
Memorable Experiences at CUC
Dr. Adams’ time at CUC was filled with enriching experiences and cherished memories. “Being at CUC was one of the most marvelous times in my life,” he fondly recalls. The atmosphere, the dedicated teachers, and the administration created a nurturing environment that profoundly shaped his future.
One of the highlights of his time at CUC was the Friday evening Vespers, a spiritual oasis that he remembers with great nostalgia. “In my time, we had a sack lunch that we’d pick up at midday, and it consisted of freshly baked bread, homemade peanut butter, and condensed milk,” he reminisces. These simple yet delightful meals added to the charm of Vespers, where students gathered in anticipation, with boys on one side and girls on the other.
The camaraderie and intellectual exchange among students were equally significant. “We would go out on the porch of the old boys’ dorm and study there. Sometimes debates would take place long into the night,” he shares. These debates, conducted with the West Indian custom of arguing without becoming disagreeable, fostered critical thinking and mutual respect.
The rigorous academic environment at CUC, coupled with the support of esteemed teachers like Elder G.R. Thompson and Elder George W. Brown provided the young Dr. Adams with a strong foundation for his future ministry. He remembers the encouragement he received from his teachers, particularly the thrill of seeing a term paper returned with an “A” and the word “splendid” written across it. These affirmations played a crucial role in shaping his academic and spiritual journey.
Dr. Adams’ involvement also extended to the co-curricular realm, serving as the president of the boys’ club, while his then-girlfriend led the girls’ club. Together, they were considered the “powerhouse of the campus,” organizing events such as the annual banquet. These experiences and the strong sense of community at CUC not only honed his leadership skills but also taught him the value of respectful camaraderie.
Contributions to the USC Community
Dr. Adams has consistently given back to the USC community in meaningful ways. As a member of the board of the Alumni Association (North America) and the University’s Board of Trustees, he has been actively involved in supporting the institution. He has donated copies of his books on the sanctuary to theology students and organized book sales, with proceeds going to support needy students. Additionally, he has dedicated the proceeds from his latest book, “Revisiting the Sanctuary and its Significance within Adventism”, entirely to USC.
His commitment extends beyond financial contributions. Dr. Adams has frequently returned to USC to speak at special occasions, sharing his wisdom and experiences with the next generation of students. His dedication to USC reflects his gratitude for the education and support he received, which he credits as the foundation of his successful career.
Current Endeavors and Achievements
Now retired, Dr. Adams continues to lead a busy and fulfilling life, focusing on writing and other personal projects. Despite his retirement, he often finds himself busier than ever, reflecting the old adage, “I don’t know where I ever found time to go to work.” His recent book on the sanctuary is a testament to his ongoing commitment to theological scholarship and education. While considering it his last, he acknowledges there may be more to come, driven by leftover material and a desire to continue contributing to the field – a testament to his enduring passion for writing and sharing knowledge.
Dr. Adams’ career is marked by numerous milestones and achievements. Inspired by his mentors at CUC, he pursued advanced degrees, including a Master of Divinity from Andrews University and a Ph.D. His contributions to theological literature are significant, with ten published books, many written during his tenure as associate editor at the Adventist Review. Balancing editorial responsibilities with writing projects, he often found himself overwhelmed, yet he credits his success to divine guidance and perseverance.
Words of Wisdom for Current Students
Dr. Adams offers heartfelt advice to current USC students: “Keep your eyes on Jesus Christ. Work hard and strive for honesty and integrity. Never lose the common touch.” Drawing from his experiences, he emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and maintaining a humble, approachable demeanor.
He recalls the words of former Grenadian Prime Minister T.A. Marryshow during a presentation at the GBSS:: “Whatever you are, be that. Whatever you say, be true. Straightforwardly act. In fact, be nobody else but you.” These principles have guided Dr. Adams throughout his life and career, serving as a beacon for those who follow in his footsteps.
Dr. Roy Adams’ journey from Carriacou to CUC and beyond is a testament to the transformative power of faith, education, and dedication. His story is one of overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and giving back to the community that shaped him. As we celebrate his contributions and achievements, we are reminded of the profound impact that a nurturing educational environment can have on an individual’s life and the lasting legacy they can leave for future generations.
