Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez — Teaching Without Shortcuts
By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez doesn’t teach to be liked. He teaches so his students leave his classroom knowing something they didn’t when they entered. After 15 years at the University of the Southern Caribbean, the Assistant Professor in the School of Science, Technology and Allied Health remains committed to an approach that resists shortcuts and easy wins.
“I do not intend to make you a physicist or engineer,” he tells students early on. “But you must be able to say something in my course that you could not have said before.”
In an academic culture often pressed by student demand for exam-focused instruction, Dr. Rodriguez deliberately pushes back. His courses require more than memorization, they demand engagement. “Students must focus on the material, search for patterns, and build models,” he says. “That’s where independence and confidence start.”
His teaching philosophy is firmly rooted in his experience outside academia. Before joining USC, Dr. Rodriguez worked in oil and gas exploration with Baker Hughes INTEQ, and later at the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards, where he helped develop engineering standards.
These years in industry shaped his no-nonsense approach to teaching and his belief that students must be prepared for complexity, ambiguity, and responsibility once they leave campus.
Dr. Rodriguez is also an inventor. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he collaborated on the design and manufacture of electronic medical units that helped hospitals monitor patients’ oxygen saturation and heart rates. The devices, used in two local hospitals, are evidence of what he believes science should do: solve problems that matter.
That same drive has led him to engineer safety shut-off units for manufacturing equipment. “The work of scientists and engineers must respond to real-world threats,” he says, referring to the injuries that inspired the device after the Occupational Safety and Health Act came into effect. “We’re here to protect people, not just publish papers.”
Still, he does publish—regularly, and across disciplines. For him, scholarship isn’t optional; it’s part of professional credibility. “Teaching alone shouldn’t be the finish line. We must also produce,” he says. “It helps students see science in action.”
His research spans science, engineering, and medicine, and includes supervision of postgraduate theses. He holds degrees in physics and engineering from the University of the West Indies, including a PhD in Mechanical Engineering earned with high commendation.
Looking ahead, Dr. Rodriguez sees untapped opportunity in applied science and artificial intelligence. He believes the Department of Computing, Mathematics, and Physics could expand into areas that draw greater male enrollment, such assolar energy systems, wastewater engineering, data mining. And, he notes, the department already has the equipment to begin.
But new academic programs, he insists, must be matched by evolving classroom design. He envisions spaces that allow for more conversation, experimentation, and different learning styles—what he calls “classrooms that come alive.”
Science, for Dr. Rodriguez, is not an end in itself. It’s a tool, and one that works best when guided by something beyond it. “Models don’t govern world order,” he says. “There is a greater guiding entity that is supreme and all-encompassing. I’m convinced of that. Years of science have only strengthened my belief in God.”
If his students leave his course more curious, more capable, and more willing to think for themselves, he considers the job well done. Not everyone will become an engineer. But everyone, under his watch, must learn how to think like one.
- Published in Faculty, News, President's Newsletter
At USC’s Entrepreneurship Day, Students Take the Lead on Enterprise
By Mrs. Sherri-Lyn Legall-Nelson, Interim Dean, School of Business and Entrepreneurship & Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
On April 2, 2025, the University of the Southern Caribbean’s Business Block transformed into a pop-up marketplace of ideas, flavors, and talent. The School of Business & Entrepreneurship (SOBE) hosted its semesterly Entrepreneurship Day, organized under the theme “Entrepreneurship is for Everyone.”
Led by students of MGMT315: Entrepreneurship and HSTM455: Strategic Customer Care in Hospitality & Tourism, the event reflected the School’s growing emphasis on experiential learning. Mrs. Stacey Simmons-Roberts, Chair of the Department of Marketing & Management, guided the execution, but it was the students who shaped the experience.
Booths lined the courtyard, offering everything from handmade crafts and baked goods to photography and interactive games. The event welcomed student entrepreneurs from across all academic schools, thanks to the coordination of the Business Student Association – making space for side hustles, start-up dreams, and self-expression.
University President Dr. Colwick Wilson and Vice President of Financial Administration Dr. Joel Hazelwood made the rounds, engaging with students and sampling the goods. Their presence was a tangible demonstration of the administration’s support for initiatives that blend theory with practice.
Beyond commerce, the event was also a moment of recognition. SOBE is having a standout year in campus life: holding the Trevor Gardner Challenge Trophy (Football), the 2025 March Past Trophy, and the Olympiad Trophy for 2024–2025. The reigning Mr. & Ms. USC—Michael Garcia and Alicia Lewis—are both students of the school, a reminder that leadership comes in many forms.
Entrepreneurship Day wasn’t flashy or over-produced. It didn’t need to be. The energy was organic, driven by students eager to test the waters of real-world commerce. And if the day’s turnout is any indication, the next generation of USC entrepreneurs isn’t waiting until graduation to get started.
They’re already “Ready for Business”!
- Published in Events, News, School of Business
“From Aspiration to Achievement”: USC Honors 485 Students for Academic Excellence
By Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President & Nadira Mohammed, Corporate Communications Assistant
The University of the Southern Caribbean held its annual Honors Convocation on Monday, March 24, 2025 at the USC Auditorium, recognizing 485 students for their academic excellence. Held under the theme “From Aspiration to Achievement,” the ceremony celebrated USCians who have distinguished themselves through sustained discipline and performance.
The audience was made up of students honored across five academic schools: Science, Technology & Allied Health; Business & Entrepreneurship; Education & Humanities; Theology & Religion; and Social Sciences.
Thirty-five students earned placement on the Provost’s List, reserved for those with a cumulative GPA between 3.74 and 3.99 over consecutive semesters. Another 450 students made the Dean’s List, each maintaining a GPA of at least 3.50 for a single semester.
But the tone of the evening went well beyond the numbers.
“…Honors Convocation is a special time,” said Provost Dr. Len Archer. Although the event was focused on celebrating academic excllence, Dr. Archer emphasized that USC’s unique educational philosophy defines true success as, “the development of the head, the heart, and the hand.” Many honorees, he noted, are leaders in student clubs, music groups, and church life. Some balance studies with jobs and family responsibilities. “This is academic success, but also balance.”
Dr. Archer also had a message for those not being honored: “Let this inspire you. Celebrate your peers today, and let their success push you toward your own.”
The event also acknowledged the university’s faculty and staff—those who work quietly behind the scenes, challenging, mentoring, and supporting students day after day. Dr. Archer thanked them for their role in shaping not just intellect, but character.
Mr. Gary Awai served as keynote speaker; taking the stage, he didn’t start with a grand flourish or polished soundbite. Instead, he said what many speakers don’t: “This is supposed to be fun.” And for much of his address, it was honest, warm, and disarmingly personal.
Speaking to USC’s highest-achieving students, Mr. Awai, CEO of Development Finance Limited and USC alumnus, cut past clichés. “What if money didn’t matter?” he asked the room. It wasn’t rhetorical. It was a real challenge to a generation often encouraged to define success by paychecks and possessions.
“For some people, success is about the car, the house, the salary. For others, it’s about getting better every day,” he said. Awai, who has taught finance and risk at the University of the West Indies, said that when students asked him how to “get like him,” he realized they were chasing a version of success that didn’t actually explain much. “I drive a truck. I’ve always driven a truck,” he told them.
His point wasn’t to downplay ambition, but to shift it away from status, toward curiosity and service.
“If you don’t have curiosity or a desire to be helpful, you probably won’t get a job with me,” Awai said. “I look for that in interviews. Because if you’re curious, you’ll grow. And if you’re helpful, you’ll serve well.”
USC President Dr. Colwick Wilson approached the podium with a forward-looking message; reminding the audience that the university’s mission goes beyond academic performance.
Dr. Wilson opened his address by congratulating the honorees and tying their success to the university’s broader mission. “USC exists to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God to humanity,” he said. “You’ve excelled not just in academics, but in leadership, service, and integrity.”
Honors Convocation 2025 comes at a pivotal time in USC’s history, the beginning of its centennial celebration. “As we continue this Journey to 100, we look to you; our scholars, our leaders, our future change-makers, to carry forward the banner of Excellence in Motion,” Dr. Wilson charged.
This year’s Honors Convocation was an honest celebration of effort. It recognized students for both their academic performance and ability to persist. For staying the course through tough semesters. For finding meaning not just in books, but in service and community.
As the applause faded and students returned to classes, one thing was clear—achievement at USC isn’t about perfection. It’s about commitment. And for 485 students this year, that commitment was more than enough.
Excellence in Motion: USC Launches Centennial Celebrations With Over USD$800K in Donations
By Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
In a quiet valley with nearly a century of stories embedded in its hills, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) marked the beginning of its centennial celebrations. On Saturday, March 22, 2025, with a clear sense of purpose and the rhythm of alumni voices lifting the air USC commemorated the start of a two-year lead-up to its 100th anniversary in 2027.
The day began with a sacred moment, a Sabbath service at the Caring University Church, grounding the celebrations in one of USC’s foundational values: spiritual nurture. The featured sermon during the divine hour was delivered by Pastor Elie Henry, President of the Inter-American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. His message set the spiritual tone for a day of reflection, vision and gratitude. Gratitude that began first and foremost with thanks to God for His miraculous provision over nearly 100 years.
At USC, we pride ourselves on an educational philosophy rooted in several pillars, one of the most vital being spiritual growth. As we look toward 2027, we also look back to our founding in 1927 as the East Caribbean Training School (ECTS), a humble beginning with a profound mission – to train the youth of the Caribbean as pastors and teachers in service to both God and humanity. This vision earned USC the lasting title the School of the Prophets, a name that still resonates today.
Special thanks were also extended to Ps. Elie Henry and his wife for their presence and support, and to Dr. Lincoln Edwards, President of North Caribbean University (NCU), who joined the USC community for both the morning and evening events. Dr. Edwards opened the evening program with an inspiring vespers, further emphasizing the spiritual ethos that continues to guide USC.
The evening unfolded with music, memories, and an extraordinary milestone. Themed, “Journey to 100: Excellence in Motion,” this event was no ceremonial ribbon-cutting. Before a live audience and international online viewers, USC quietly achieved something few institutions do in a single night: it raised over USD$800,000 in pledges and donations, exceeding its USD$500,000 fundraising goal as the institution steps into its 98th year.
Now, nearly 100 years later, as USC’s mission continues to evolve, the centennial launch celebrated a future of promise and reflected on more than nine decades of excellence — a recognition of the sacrifice, leadership, and faith that built the university’s foundation.
At the heart of the event was the declaration of the centennial celebrations, formally announced by Ps. Elie Henry, President of the Inter-American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. The theme: Journey to 100: Excellence in Motion — a phrase that captured the evening’s energy and the university’s ambitions.
The money raised is earmarked for a sweeping range of initiatives under USC’s five strategic pillars:
- Spiritual Ethos: Funding the completion of the church building, which will house the Walter Douglas Mission Center.
- Academic Success: Upgrades to classrooms, laboratories, and technology; development of new graduate programs; and student scholarships.
- Faculty and Staff Development: Endowed faculty positions, seed funding for research, and professional development opportunities.
- Operational Efficiency: Investments in digital infrastructure and data warehousing systems to improve university-wide functionality and responsiveness.
- Financial Sustainability: Expansion of USC’s endowment fund and improvement of physical infrastructure — including long-needed renovations, completion of unfinished buildings, upgrades to existing structures, campus roadworks, and new buildings such as a Health & Wellness Center.
Throughout the evening, the spirit of USC’s global community was felt in congratulatory messages from alumni around the world, regional and international church leaders, and the Prime Ministers of Antigua and Barbuda, the Hon. Gaston Browne, and Saint Lucia, the Hon. Philip J. Pierre — two countries where USC operates key satellite campuses.
Performances by USC alumni and friends added a personal, celebratory tone to the evening, grounding the forward-looking agenda in the memories and talents of those shaped by the institution over the decades.
Throughout its 98-year journey, USC’s Maracas Valley campus, affectionately known as Miracle Valley, has served as a hub of personal and spiritual transformation. The launch event honored not just where USC is going, but how far it has come — through the vision of founders, the dedication of administrators, faculty and staff, the faith of alumni and current students, and the powerful work of divine providence.
As USC moves toward its 100th year, this launch sets a tone of confidence and clear direction. For an institution rooted in faith, education, and regional impact, the journey to 2027 is well underway — and it’s already ahead of pace.
100 years in the making — the journey continues! To relive the event or explore how to contribute to USC’s centennial vision, visit https://usc.edu.tt/usc100launch/.
- Published in Events, News, President's Newsletter
USC Research Conference 2025: A Conversation Rooted in Health, Data, and Real Life
By Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
At the University of the Southern Caribbean, health goes beyond just the clinical—it’s also a question of how we live.
On March 26 and 27, 2025, USC reaffirmed its growing reputation as a convener of serious academic inquiry. The second edition of the USC Research Conference, held virtually, focused on a topic both timely and urgent—Lifestyle, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), and Innovative Research Methodologies in Health and Well-being.
The conference drew more than 300 attendees, including USC students, public health scholars, behavioral scientists, medical professionals, and voices from a wide range of disciplines all asking: How can we live better, longer, and more equitably? Four keynote presenters each tackled health from a distinct angle.
Dr. Samuel G. Hansdak of Christian Medical College in Vellore, India, opened with a talk on lifestyle medicine, calling it a practical and evidence-based strategy for living longer and healthier—not just avoiding illness, but improving the quality of life.
Dr. Samuel E. Dey, a psychiatrist and founder of the Dogon Behavioral Medical Group, reflected on how mental health practice is shifting, and what modern psychiatry must grapple with as treatment models and patient needs evolve.
Harvard University’s Dr. David R. Williams focused on improving health in the Caribbean. His talk dug into the region’s deep-rooted health inequities and pointed to policy-level changes as necessary steps toward meaningful improvement.
Dr. Loren L. Toussaint, a psychology professor at Luther College, brought something different to the table: self-forgiveness—an unusual but resonant topic in a space often dominated by clinical interventions. His research explored how this internal shift can affect physical health and overall well-being—a reminder that care starts within. Dr. Toussaint is also a co-principal investigator of the Caribbean Self-Forgiveness and Flourishing Project, a collaborative study conducted in Trinidad and Tobago by researchers from the United States, Poland, and USC. The project is funded by the Templeton World Charity Foundation.
Across both days, researchers from more than a dozen institutions shared their work. North American institutions included: Dogon Behavioral Medical Group, Harvard University, Luther College, Loma Linda University, Providence College, Walla Walla University, Texas Tech University, California State University, and Riverside University Health System Medical Center. From South Asia: Christian Medical College, Vellore, India. Caribbean institutions included: Nations School of Business and Management (Guyana), the University of the West Indies (St. Augustine Campus), Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and the University of the Southern Caribbean.
The mix of medical schools, public health departments, and faith-based organizations reflected a shared concern with not only treatment but prevention, habits, and the broader systems that shape health.
The event was supported by the University of the Southern Caribbean and a grant from the Templeton World Charity Foundation. It was coordinated by the USC Research Conference Committee, with members Dr. Dave Cassie, Dr. Susan Chand, and Dr. Lydia Campbell-George.
The goal was simple: create space for ideas grounded in data, cultural context, and forward-thinking approaches to health. The conference asked its attendees—and the institutions they represent—to take a closer look at the everyday decisions, cultural norms, and public structures that affect how people get sick, and how they might stay well.
- Published in Events, News, President's Newsletter, Research and Innovation
Alumni Spotlight: Mrs. Barbara-Gene Browne – A Golden Legacy of Music and Mentorship
By Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
As the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) embarks on its centennial journey, we take a moment to celebrate the extraordinary alumni who have shaped our institution’s legacy. This month, we shine the Alumni Spotlight on Mrs. Barbara-Gene Browne, a member of the Class of 1975—our Gold Class for 2025. This year, the Class of 1975 celebrates 50 years since their graduation from Caribbean Union College, marking a milestone of excellence and shared history. Her story is one of dedication, talent, and an enduring connection to the institution she calls home.
A Lifelong Connection to CUC
The institution known today as the University of the Southern Caribbean has undergone several transformations in its nearly 100-year history. In 1956, it transitioned from Caribbean Training College (CTC) to Caribbean Union College (CUC), marking a new chapter in its academic expansion. Just four years later, in 1960, Mrs. Browne’s parents joined the faculty and staff, contributing to the growth of the newly renamed college. Their commitment to CUC played a role in shaping the institution’s evolving legacy, and for young Barbara-Gene, it meant growing up in an environment rich in education, faith, and community.
“CUC was not only my academic foundation but also the place where I formed lifelong friendships and grew spiritually,” she reminisces.
Her time at CUC was enriched by unforgettable experiences—Friday evening vespers, lively Saturday night programs, and the influence of dedicated mentors like her math teacher, Rosalie St. Hilaire. She fondly recalls her involvement in the elementary school’s programs and crafts, as well as her deep love for music, nurtured through her participation in the choir.
A Career Shaped by Music
Music was not Mrs. Browne’s initial career aspiration, but destiny had other plans. With CUC not offering nursing or home economics—her preferred fields of study—and her father hesitant to send her abroad at a young age, she continued in music at her mother’s suggestion. She later pursued a Bachelor of Arts from Andrews University in 1982 and a Master of Arts in Teaching in 1995.
Her career as a music educator spanned over three decades, beginning at the BVI High School and later serving the Government of the US Virgin Islands. In addition to classroom teaching, she has dedicated over 40 years to private piano instruction, mentoring young musicians with patience and passion. As an accompanist, she has supported numerous choirs, earning a congressional award in Georgia for her contributions to a music competition. She was also honored as Teacher of the Year at her school on four occasions, with the last award coming in 2015 before her retirement. Reflecting on her path, she acknowledges the role CUC played in her professional journey:
“Being a musician was not my career goal, but playing for the college choir under Dr. Vernon Andrews as a young teenager set the course for what I ultimately did.”
Words of Wisdom for USC Students
With a wealth of experience and insight, Mrs. Browne offers a heartfelt message to current USC students:
“Your years at USC are not just about academics—they are years of critical growth socially and spiritually. While the campus and cafeteria food may fade from memory, the friendships you build and the spiritual foundation you develop will have lifelong consequences. Enjoy these years, but guard your decisions.”
She also shares invaluable advice for success:
“Always challenge yourself to grow. Success is not about doing the bare minimum to pass, but about embracing every opportunity for professional development. Be innovative, find fresh ways to accomplish tasks, and live by the biblical principle in Ecclesiastes 9:10: ‘Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.’”
A Lasting Legacy
Now residing in the US Virgin Islands, Mrs. Browne’s impact as an educator, mentor, and musician continues to resonate. Her journey from a young girl growing up on the CUC campus to an accomplished music educator is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of a nurturing academic community. As we celebrate the Class of 1975’s golden anniversary, we honor her remarkable contributions and the indelible mark she has left on the USC family.
Congratulations, Mrs. Barbara-Gene Browne—your legacy of excellence in music and education is an inspiration to us all.
- Published in Alumni, News, President's Newsletter
Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Newton King – A Lifetime of Ministry and Inspiration
By Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
The story of Dr. Newton King is one of divine calling, lifelong dedication, and passion for ministry. Born in Valencia, Trinidad, to Barbadian parents, Dr. King’s journey to the pulpit began at the age of 17 when he began an elder at his local church. His interest in CUC began with a simple visit from Caribbean Union College (CUC) students to his home church. Today, he serves as pastor of the University SDA Church in Orlando, Florida.
A Pathway to Ministry
Dr. King’s initial ambition was to become a teacher. Encouraged by theology students during a revival 1966, he was introduced to the rich academic and spiritual environment of CUC. After receiving a scholarship to the Government’s Teacher Training College, he taught for a year at Bates Memorial High School in Sangre Grande before being awarded another scholarship to CUC’s Teacher Training Program.
However, destiny had other plans. A pivotal moment came when Dr. Kembleton Wiggins, a revivalist and guest speaker at CUC, made an appeal to students considering ministry.
Dr. King felt an undeniable call, responding immediately and transitioning from teacher training to theology. “I never regretted it,” he recalls. “Now I have the chance to teach the word of God, which is my passion.”
The CUC Experience
Dr. King fondly remembers his years at CUC as a time of growth, camaraderie, and spiritual enrichment. One of the most cherished friendships of his life was formed during this period with his Guyanese roommate, Colin Parkinson. Their shared commitment to faith and service strengthened their bond, and both ultimately pursued ministry.
Choosing to reside in Cedar Hall, despite his family home being in Trinidad, allowed Dr. King to fully immerse himself in campus life. “I reveled in the blend of diverse cultures. CUC was really a unique experience,” he reflects. Weekends and holidays found him enjoying home-cooked meals with his family—always with Colin in tow.
A Ministry of Impact
Dr. King’s ministerial career officially began in 1974 in Trinidad, where he pastored in communities like Rio Claro and Diego Martin until 1982. He collaborated with renowned evangelists such as Dr. Maitland and Dr. Wiggins, leading hundreds to baptism. Pastor King also served as pastor of the Santa Cruz, El Socorro, Point Fortin and Cleveland Temple districts.
He joined the Florida conference in 1996 and served as pastor of the Pine Hills SDA church in Orlando, and the Maranatha SDA church in Miami, Florida.
One particularly striking moment occurred three years ago in Orlando when a young man approached him. “He looked familiar,” Dr. King recalls. “Turns out, I had baptized him in La Brea in 1979 during a crusade near the pitch lake where 53 souls were baptized.” That man is now a member of his Orlando congregation. Another young man who was also baptized in the same area has become a lay evangelist baptizing thousands, throughout the Caribbean. His sons are also involved in soul winning. He still had the handbill from that crusade—a tangible reminder of the seeds Dr. King has sown throughout his ministry.
“You know, I don’t have ‘milestones’ in the traditional sense. I just loved the work of ministry—pastoring, baptizing, building and preaching. Making the word of God plain and relevant to the listener. That thrills my heart.” He cherishes the lives he has influenced, including many who have followed his footsteps into ministry.
Academic Background
Dr. King’s educational journey has been instrumental in shaping his ministry. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Caribbean Union College (CUC) in 1974, which laid the foundation for his pastoral work. He later pursued a Master’s degree in Old Testament Studies at Andrews University and further expanded his expertise with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Psychology from Western Michigan University. In recognition of his contributions to ministry, he was also awarded an honorary doctorate from St. John’s College.
Life’s Greatest Blessings
Dr. King attributes much of his success to the steady support of his wife of 47 years, the former Syllette Billingy. She is a medical doctor and they have effectively combined the medical and gospel ministries. “She is an awesome team player, partner, supporter, and confidante.” Together, they have raised two children and built a life dedicated to faith and service.
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
For today’s students and young professionals, Dr. King offers these words of wisdom: “Make God the center of your life. Talk to Him like a friend; He listens.”
He emphasizes the importance of prayer and divine guidance in every decision, from education to marriage. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”. The knowledge you truly need will not come from a classroom, but from time spent alone with God in the early hours of the morning.”
As he continues to minister in Orlando, Dr. King remains a pillar of faith, wisdom, and encouragement—an exemplary figure in the rich legacy of CUC, now the University of the Southern Caribbean.
- Published in Alumni, News, President's Newsletter
From Celebration to Compassion: USC’s Student Advisement Center Community Hamper Initiative
By Mrs. Lois Baynes, Director, Student Advisement Center & Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
The spirit of giving has long been at the heart of the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), and nowhere is this more evident than in the Student Advisement Center’s (SAC) Community Hamper Project. What began as a simple act of kindness has since evolved into a cherished annual tradition, bringing comfort and cheer to students and families in need.
In 2015, instead of accepting the customary birthday celebration at the University of the Southern Caribbean’s Student Advisement Center (SAC), the February birthday celebrant requested that the funds be used to assist a needy family in the community. The SAC team agreed, marking the beginning of its first humanitarian project.
After extensive efforts to identify an eligible family, Mrs. Charmaine Jardine-Brisbane, principal of the Maracas SDA Primary School, suggested Mr. Kumar Ramlochand, a single father of four children living in humble conditions in the Tunapuna area. The SAC team accepted the recommendation, and Mr. Ramlochand became the first recipient of what was then called the “Love They Can Feel” SAC project. On February 15, 2015, SAC staff, along with Dr. Andy Manzano, visited the family and contributed TT$1,100 worth of groceries and baby supplies.
Building on the momentum of their first outreach, the SAC team broadened the initiative in 2016 to include students who remained in USC’s Residence Halls during the Christmas break. The project was aptly renamed the SAC Dorm & Community Hamper Project. That year, 14 hampers were distributed in December to Residence Hall students as well as needy families in the Maracas community.
By 2017, the initiative had gained corporate support, allowing the team to reach even more individuals. The project provided hampers to students in USC’s Residence Halls, students at USC’s various Extension Sites, and residents of the Married Students Complex who remained on campus during the Christmas break. That year, 16 family hampers and a large package of food supplies were distributed to students in the extension dorm, men’s dorm, and ladies’ dorm.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the SAC Christmas Hamper Project continued to grow in scale and impact. A significant milestone was reached in 2023 when the SAC team, guided by faith, distributed 50 hampers. These hampers supported USC dorm students, needy families in Lluengo Village, and two families each from the Maracas SDA Primary and Maracas SDA Secondary Schools.
The momentum carried into December 2024, when the SAC team increased the hamper count to 65, further extending the reach of their benevolence. USC dorm students, families from the Maracas Primary and Secondary Schools, and members of the Lluengo community were among the grateful recipients.
With eyes set on an even more impactful future, the SAC team has set an ambitious goal for 2025—a golden year of giving. By God’s grace, they aim to distribute 100 hampers, continuing to uphold USC’s mission of service and community engagement.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter, Staff
Portraits of Excellence Research Presentations: A Showcase of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
By Ms. Simone T. Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
On Monday, February 24, 2025, the USC Auditorium played host to an exciting and thought-provoking event as the Portraits of Excellence (POE) delegates took the stage for their highly anticipated Research Presentations. This event, which was also streamed live on the University’s YouTube channel, marked an important milestone in the lead-up to the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant on Sunday, March 16, 2025.
The delegates, eight bright and talented individuals from across the Caribbean, presented their research on a timely and impactful theme: “Entrepreneurial Innovations: An Imperative for Sustainability in the Caribbean.” Their projects, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 9, focused on fostering economic growth, promoting innovation, and enhancing infrastructure within the Caribbean region.
Through months of diligent research and preparation, these delegates investigated an array of topics with the potential to transform industries and communities. Their presentations demonstrated the creativity, passion, and dedication they bring to solving some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
Here’s a brief look at the topics covered:
- “Investigating the Impact of Digital Platforms and Digital Marketing on Artisans’ Efforts to Expand Market Reach” – Mr. Marques Bruce (South/Extension Campuses)
- “Digital Platforms in Sustaining Marine Tourism & Conservation” – Ms. Ahjea Jackson (St. Vincent & the Grenadines)
- “Steelpan Innovations: A Pathway to Trinidad’s Economic Growth” – Ms. Ruqayya Abdul Haqq (Trinidad & Tobago)
- “Harnessing Solar Energy for Growth & Development: A Qualitative Review of Sustainable Strategies for Trinidad & Tobago” – Mr. Michael Garcia (Trinidad & Tobago)
- “Influence of Entrepreneurial Education and Institutional Support on Innovation and Sustainability at Tertiary Institutions in Trinidad” – Ms. Alicia Lewis (Antigua)
- “Assessing the Potential Utilization of Ti Kai Houses for Sustainable Tourism Development and Economic Growth in Dominica” – Ms. Felesha Jack (Dominica)
- “Entrepreneurial Innovation Hub for Felons in Antigua and Barbuda” – Mr. Asahel Joseph (Antigua)
- “Cultivating Sustainability: The Feasibility and Impact of an Egg Farm at USC” – Mr. Hansel Thomas (St. Vincent & the Grenadines)
These presentations not only highlighted the delegates’ academic rigor but also underscored the critical role of innovation in advancing sustainable development within the Caribbean. The oral presentations account for 10% of their overall score, while their written research projects contribute to 30%, making the event an essential part of their journey toward the prestigious titles of Mr. & Ms. USC.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Eastern Group of Companies, whose generous support has made this event possible for the past three years. Their commitment to empowering young minds and fostering innovation is truly commendable.
A special thank you is also due to our esteemed panel of judges, who provided invaluable feedback to the delegates, offering insights that will help refine their projects for real-world impact. The panel included:
- Senator the Honorable Dr. Paul Richards, Independent Senator and advocate for vulnerable communities.
- Dr. Fiona Rajkumar, Associate Professor of History at USC, with expertise in ethnic minorities and economic history.
- Dr. Kyra McGowan-Santana, Dean of the School of Business and Digital Technologies at COSTAATT, an expert in online education and student engagement.
As we look ahead with anticipation to the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant on March 16, 2025, we encourage everyone to relive the inspiring moments of the Research Presentations. If you missed it or simply want to experience the event again, you can watch the full presentation on our YouTube channel:
The event also marked the official launch of the People’s Choice Voting, where the public is invited to vote for their favorite delegate. Voting is open at strawpoll.com/poe2025 or usc.edu.tt/poe.
We eagerly await the final celebration, where these delegates will showcase their cultural costumes and talent, bringing their journey to a spectacular close. Remember, your ticket purchases also contribute to supporting the next generation of scholars and innovators in the Caribbean. Don’t miss out—secure your tickets today!
Tickets:
- Student – TTD$20.00
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For all things Portraits of Excellence, and to learn more about the 2025 delegates, visit usc.edu.tt/poe.
- Published in Events, News, President's Newsletter, Students
USC Alumna Dr. Patriann Smith Honored by the MLA for Groundbreaking Work
By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) celebrates the achievements of Dr. Patriann Smith, a distinguished alumna of Caribbean Union College (now USC). Dr. Smith, a Professor of Literacy Studies at the University of South Florida, has been awarded an Honorable Mention for her book, Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom, by the Modern Language Association MLA) as part of the prestigious Mina P. Shaughnessy Prize. This recognition underscores her significant contributions to understanding the nuanced dynamics of Black immigrant students’ literacy experiences.
Dr. Smith’s scholarship meticulously explores the complex racial, cultural, and academic landscapes navigated by Black immigrant and transnational students. By examining the intersections of race, language, and culture, she sheds light on how these factors influence learning and literacy in both public and academic spaces. Her insights reframe the narrative around Black immigrant students’ educational journeys and challenge static perceptions of literacy worldwide.
Earlier this year, Dr. Smith was a keynote presenter at USC’s inaugural Research Conference held on March 7-8, 2024, under the theme, “Scientific Contribution of Spirituality/Religion on Health & Well-Being.” Her presentation, titled “Black Immigrant Literacies: Leveraging a Language of Forgiveness for Flourishing,” captivated attendees with its exploration of how forgiveness can empower and transform Black immigrant students’ literacy practices and overall well-being. Dr. Smith has since been elected as Vice President of the Literacy Research Association (LRA) and was recently invited to serve as a Global Pathways Panelist for the “White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.” She is the author of the newly released book titled “Literacies of Migration: Translanguaging Imaginaries of Innocence” (2024) published by Cambridge University Press.
The USC community takes pride in Dr. Smith’s achievements, which serve as a testament to the caliber of excellence nurtured at the institution. As Dr. Smith prepares to receive this accolade during the MLA’s annual convention in January 2025, we extend heartfelt congratulations and celebrate her dedication to advancing education and creating transformative impacts within the global academic community.
- Published in Alumni, News, President's Newsletter