By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In the bustling heart of Southern California, amidst the palm trees and the shimmering sunshine, there’s a healer with a heart as big as the ocean and a spirit as resilient as the mountains. Dr. Yvonne Telgt-McKinney, a beacon of compassion and commitment, has been selected for the Alumni Spotlight in the April 2024 issue of the President’s newsletter. As her story unfolds, one can’t help but be drawn into the vivid tapestry of her journey, woven with threads of faith, resilience, and an unyielding dedication to service.
A Journey Rooted in Faith
Travel back to the 1980’s, when Yvonne Telgt-McKinney embarked on her educational odyssey at Caribbean Union College (CUC). For her, attending CUC wasn’t just a decision; it was a testament to her family’s deep-rooted belief in Christian Education. Raised in a household where learning and faith intertwined seamlessly, Yvonne’s path was paved with purpose from the very beginning. “I did not initially want to go,” she admits with a chuckle, “but I also did not want to be poor in life.”
Pictured: Yvonne Telgt-McKinney, MD
At CUC, now known as the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), Yvonne found more than just a campus; she found a family. Living in the dorms, she recalls the camaraderie that enveloped her like a warm embrace. “Everyone was like your big brother or big sister,” she reminisces. “We took care of each other; we just had a family spirit on the campus.”
Bamboo Cannons and Bonds That Last a Lifetime
Picture this: it’s a crisp evening, and the air crackles with anticipation. The ladies of Linda Austin Hall are tasked with announcing the banquet, an event steeped in tradition and pomp. But these spirited young women, fueled by a desire for drama and flair, hatch a plan that will go down in CUC history.
Enter Yvonne and her band of merry mischief-makers. With determination in their hearts and bamboo in hand, they embark on a daring escapade that will leave Cedar Hall trembling in its wake.
“We wanted to be more dramatic,” Yvonne recounts with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, “so we decided that we would ‘burst’ bamboo.” And so, with the help of her brother, who supplied the key ingredient for their audacious scheme, the stage is set for an unforgettable spectacle.
As the clock strikes midnight, a group of adventurous young women descends upon Cedar Hall, their hearts pounding with excitement and anticipation. Standing in the center of the hall, they unleash their bamboo cannon with a thunderous roar that shakes the very foundations of the building.
In an instant, chaos ensues. Men emerge from their rooms in a frenzy, brandishing makeshift weapons and bracing themselves for the unknown assailant. But as the dust settles and the laughter rings out, a collective sigh of relief sweeps through the hall.
“It was chaos!” Yvonne exclaims with glee, recalling the scene with vivid clarity. “But when they realized it was the girls, we all had a good laugh.”
A Life Devoted to Healing and Hope
Fast forward to the present, and Dr. Yvonne Telgt-McKinney stands as a pillar of strength and compassion in her community. As a medical doctor with a private practice in Southern California, she exemplifies the values instilled in her during her formative years at CUC.
“I take pride in serving the underserved,” she declares with unwavering conviction. From offering diabetes education classes to providing support for Alzheimer’s patients and their caretakers, Yvonne’s commitment to holistic healing knows no bounds. “No insurance or sponsors wanted to join,” she reflects, “but for the past 10 years, I am the only physician who offers such preventative measures.”
In a world enamored with titles and accolades, Yvonne Telgt-McKinney stands apart. For her, true fulfillment lies not in recognition, but in the lives she touches and the communities she serves. Whether it’s through her annual Christmas outreach drives or her steadfast dedication to her patients, Yvonne’s legacy is one of selflessness and sacrifice.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Yvonne’s journey from CUC alumna to esteemed medical practitioner has been punctuated by moments of reflection and gratitude. “I consider CUC as the ‘home base’ of my education,” she muses, her voice brimming with nostalgia. “This is the institution that contributed to what we wanted to be and where we are in life right now.”
When the opportunity arose to give back to her beloved alma mater, it was a no-brainer for Yvonne. Her significant contributions to the USC community, including monetary support and equipment donations, have paved the way for technological advancements at the Maracas SDA Primary School and the University itself.
In her acts of giving, Yvonne echoes the spirit of camaraderie and compassion that permeated her days at CUC. It’s a testament to the profound impact that the institution had on shaping not only her academic journey but also her ethos of service.
As she continues to walk the path of healing and service, Yvonne’s legacy of giving back serves as a guiding light, illuminating the way for others to follow. In her eyes, CUC will always be more than just a college; it’s a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of learning, and a home that forever holds a special place in her heart.
Words of Wisdom and a Call to Action
As she reflects on time at CUC, Yvonne advises current students: “Don’t listen to people who tell you that you cannot make it, or that you’re not smart enough.” Her words are a gentle reminder that resilience and determination can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
And as for success in academics and career? Yvonne’s recipe is simple yet profound: “Serve God first, then serve humanity. The rest will work out.”
In the hallowed halls of Caribbean Union College, amidst the laughter and the camaraderie, Yvonne Telgt-McKinney found not just an education, but a calling. And as she continues to walk the path of healing and hope, her alma mater stands as a beacon of inspiration, guiding her every step of the way.
