While there may be many ways to define leadership, for Starlene Peters, the Dean of the Ladies Residence Hall, at the University of the Southern Caribbean, leadership is not defined by title, but by service, commitment, and helping others. Her journey reflects a life committed to uplifting others, shaped by years of missionary work, social services, and personal resilience. Whether in remote communities or within the university dormitory, her focus remains the same: to meet needs, empower individuals, and create meaningful impact.
As the author of the book Brave Faith, which speaks about her life as a seasoned missionary of over ten years, and a dedicated social worker, her journey reflects a life shaped by both challenge and calling.
Her professional background spans extensive work in child welfare and social development as she has served with the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, managing safe houses across both countries, and has also worked with the Turks and Caicos government to develop policies and procedures for similar facilities. Beyond her professional roles, her missionary work has taken her across thirty-two countries, reflecting her passion for service and cultural engagement.
Dean Peters’ early life played a significant role in shaping her path. After her mother left when she was just two years old, she was raised by her grandmother and aunt, while her father did his best under challenging circumstances. These experiences instilled in her a deep sense of empathy and a desire to give to others what she did not always receive, love, stability and belonging. That passion led her into mission work, including nearly three years living in the forests of Guyana, where she taught Amerindian communities to read and write and supported their development.
Her appointment as Dean of the Ladies Residence Hall is, in her view, a full circle moment. One of her earliest mission roles was serving as a dean at Kimbia Mission Academy in Guyana, a school established in a remote area to provide education and vocational training to students who otherwise had limited opportunities. Despite being in her twenties at the time and initially unsure of her capabilities, she embraced the role and grew through the experience. Subsequent work in Bolivia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turks and Caicos continued to prepare her for leadership. She describes her current position as divinely directed, grounded in prayer and a strong sense of purpose.
Like many women in leadership, Dean Peters has faced challenges. Returning home after years of missionary service, she felt the weight of expectations and scrutiny, as there were many pairs of eyes on her and the characteristics she displayed. She also acknowledges her own areas for growth, particularly her direct communication style, which can sometimes be perceived as blunt. However, she remains committed to self-improvement while striving to lead with integrity and serve as a mentor to young women.
Her leadership approach is both practical and empowering. She prioritizes identifying real needs and responding with meaningful solutions. Recognizing financial challenges among students, she has helped revamp the dormitory pantry, ensuring access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and groceries for those in need. Her team of strong-willed women personally source items from markets and stores to keep the pantry stocked.
Understanding the importance of spiritual and emotional support, she also introduced a dedicated prayer room to create a space for reflection and connection. Additionally, she has supported initiatives such as cooking and baking classes for students who lack basic life skills, as well as mentorship programmes that pair experienced students with newer ones. Her philosophy is simple yet impactful: address needs without singling out individuals and create an environment where everyone can grow. Dean Peters also fosters a culture of creativity and independence among students. She encourages them to initiate activities and programmes, offering guidance without micromanaging. Whether it is student-led events like karaoke nights or new ideas for engagement, she supports their efforts while allowing them the freedom to lead.
The theme of this year’s Women’s Day, “Give to Gain,” resonates deeply with her personal and professional life as she would have spent over a decade in missionary service without financial compensation, and she believes strongly in the principle that giving to others brings immeasurable returns. She sees this reflected in her own life through opportunities, experiences, and personal growth. Professionally, she invests heavily in her staff in the female dormitory, emphasizing training and development. Within a short period, her team has already completed multiple certification programmes, preparing them for future success.
Her commitment to mentorship extends to succession planning. She intentionally involves student leaders in decision making, equipping them with the insight and experience needed to take on leadership roles in the future. She challenges young women to reject mediocrity, to present themselves professionally, and to consistently strive for excellence in all areas of life. Throughout her journey, Dean Peters has been inspired by strong women, including missionary Jodie McDaniels, whom she considers a “mission mom,” and her aunts, whose unwavering commitment to prayer has been a source of strength and protection in her life. These influences have shaped her own desire to support and uplift others.
Although her tenure as dormitory dean is still in its early stages, she has already made a meaningful impact. One initiative particularly close to her heart is her “mission meals.” Each Sunday, she personally prepares and distributes meals to students in need. This act of service, done independently of institutional programmes, has provided comfort and sustenance to many, often at moments when it is most needed.
Looking ahead, Dean Peters envisions a future where women in higher education are not only academically accomplished but also well rounded. She advocates for a balance of intellectual, practical, and spiritual development. In her view, true leadership involves not only professional success but also the ability to care for oneself and others, to serve with compassion, and to live with purpose. Dean Starelene Peters leads with conviction, guided by faith and a deep commitment to service. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, the value of giving, and the impact of investing in others.
