USC and Community Hospital Officially Unveil Campus Medical Clinic: A New Era of Healthcare Excellence
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
A new era of accessible, cost-effective, and improved healthcare dawned in Maracas Valley on Sunday, September 17, 2023, as the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists (TCH) proudly inaugurated the TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic.
This partnership ushers in a new era of healthcare excellence, making quality medical services accessible to the university community, and more than 3000 residents in Maracas Valley. The collaboration between USC and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists represents a commitment to providing cost-effective and improved health services in the heart of the university campus. This initiative ensures that students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community can enhance their overall well-being through access to high-quality healthcare resources and services provided by Doctors and Nurses of the Community Hospital.
The Grand Opening and Health Fair, held at the TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic directly opposite USC’s Main Campus on Royal Road in Maracas Valley, St. Joseph, were attended by a diverse crowd of community members, faculty, staff, and students, all united in their excitement for this transformative healthcare initiative. The event provided an opportunity for all attendees to benefit from a wide range of free healthcare services and resources, emphasizing the importance of proactive health management.
Legacy of Service Commended in Inspirational Address:
The highlight of the opening ceremony was the feature address delivered by the Honorable Esmond Forde, Member of Parliament for Tunapuna. MP Forde’s speech was an inspiring journey through the history and values of the Seventh-day Adventist community and its enduring commitment to healthcare.
In his address, MP Forde reflected on the timeless message of Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever,” emphasizing the unchanging principles that guide the Seventh-day Adventist community’s mission, including their medical missionary work. He shared historical anecdotes, such as the arrival of Miss Stella Colvin, a trained nurse from the United States, in Trinidad in 1894 to provide medical care, highlighting the denomination’s long-standing legacy of medical outreach.
MP Forde also paid tribute to the Port of Spain Community Hospital, established in 1962, and its significant role in supporting government medical services and relieving the strain on existing hospitals. He noted the historical significance of September 17th in the Seventh-day Adventist community’s engagement with medical and community health.
MP Forde celebrated the collaborative effort of USC and the Community Hospital, recognizing the clinic as a bold step that complements the government’s healthcare services
Highlights of the Health Fair included:
Vision Screenings: Attendees availed themselves of comprehensive vision screenings, promoting early detection of eye-related issues.
Doctor’s Consultations: Highly qualified medical practitioners offered individual consultations, addressing a variety of health concerns and providing expert guidance.
Blood Pressure Testing: Free blood pressure testing allowed individuals to monitor and maintain cardiovascular health.
Blood Sugar Testing: Complimentary blood sugar testing aimed to empower attendees to manage and prevent diabetes through early detection and education.
Nutrition Consultations: Nutrition experts were on hand to provide valuable insights into maintaining a balanced diet and its profound impact on overall health.
The event was a celebration of community, wellness, and collaboration, bringing together families, friends, and colleagues for a day of learning and proactive health measures. The TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic embodies the shared values of education, community engagement, and holistic well-being.
As it opens its doors to the public, the clinic invites everyone to embark on a journey toward a healthier, happier life. This collaborative effort between USC and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists represents a beacon of healthcare excellence in the heart of Maracas Valley.
- Published in News
Successful Grant & Proposal Writing Workshop Concludes, Empowering Nonprofits in the Caribbean
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The recently concluded Grant & Proposal Writing Workshop, held from September 11 to 13, 2023, has left a lasting impact on participants from various Seventh-day Adventist entities across the Caribbean. The workshop, hosted by the ADRA & Health Ministries Department of the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (CARU), in collaboration with Loma Linda University (LLU) and the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to secure vital funding for their projects and initiatives.
The three-day workshop was a resounding success, thanks to the guidance and expertise of its facilitators, Dr. David P. Harris, Vice President of Information Systems at Loma Linda University, and Dr. Albin Grohar, Senior Advisor for Foundations and Grants at Loma Linda University. The facilitators brought a wealth of experience in grant writing and proposal development, making this event an invaluable opportunity for participants to learn from experts in the field.
Participants Representing Diverse Entities:
The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants, hailing from various Seventh-day Adventist organizations and missions across the Caribbean. Notable attendees included:
- Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (CARU)
- South Leeward Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
- Tobago Mission of Seventh-day Adventists
- St. Vincent & the Grenadines of Seventh-day Adventists
- St. Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists
- North Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
- ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency)
- Community Services of Seventh-day Adventists
- Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
- East Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
- South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
The diverse representation underscored the critical importance of grant writing and proposal development skills across a wide range of organizations focused on community development, healthcare, education, and humanitarian work.
Key Takeaways:
Throughout the workshop, participants gained practical insights into various aspects of grant writing, including identifying funding opportunities, crafting compelling proposals, and establishing strong relationships with funders. Interactive sessions and hands-on activities allowed attendees to apply their newly acquired knowledge in real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing their understanding of the grant-seeking process.
One of the standout features of the workshop was the emphasis on tailoring proposals to meet the unique needs and expectations of different funding organizations. Dr. Harris and Dr. Grohar stressed the importance of aligning project goals with the mission and priorities of potential funders to increase the likelihood of success.
USC Administrators, Faculty, and Staff at the Forefront:
The enthusiastic participation of USC’s administrators, faculty, and staff members underscores the institution’s commitment to a culture of lifelong learning, academic excellence and the development of its community members.
On the cusp of celebrating its centennial in 2027, USC has set ambitious goals for its next century of service to the Caribbean region. These goals include expanding academic offerings, increasing research and development initiatives, and strengthening partnerships with local and international organizations. The Grant & Proposal Writing Workshop directly contributes to these objectives by equipping USC’s community with essential skills to secure external funding for research, projects, and community development initiatives.
As our participants further build upon the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop, USC is poised to make even greater contributions to the region’s development. This collaborative effort exemplifies USC’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to empowering its community for a brighter future.
- Published in News, Office of the President
USC celebrates its 90th Graduation
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer & Hayden McKenna
The University of the Southern Caribbean hosted its 90th Graduation from June 30th – July 1st 2023. Buoyed by their chosen theme, “Fueled by Passion, Driven by Perseverance”, the 445 graduates of USC’s Class of 2023 crossed the stage to receive undergraduate and post-graduate diplomas in more than 30 academic disciplines.
Representing USC’s seven campuses in Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua, Barbados, Guyana and St. Lucia, these USCian Men and Women were charged as they left our halls to take up their mantles as extraordinary servants of God to humanity.
In testament to the lasting bonds of USC’s rich history, members of the Gold (1973) and Silver (1998) classes stood in solidarity and welcome as the Class of 2023 transitioned from student to proud alumni in USC’s legacy of service and excellence.
This weekend of celebration was glittered with featured addresses from some of USC’s distinguished alumni – Pastor Marvyn Smith, Director of Youth, Chaplaincy and Public Campus Ministries, Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Dr. Curtis Fox, Senior Pastor, Conyers Seventh-day Adventist Church Atlanta Georgia, USA and Dr. David R. Williams, Chair, Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge Massachusetts USA.
Former USC President, Dr. Vernon E. Andrews was awarded the Doctor of Arts honouris causa, while Ms. Norma Greaves and Mrs. Shirley Baptiste were recipients of the Spirit of USC Award in recognition of their service and contributions going well “Beyond Excellence”.
The Class of 2023 joins a community of more than 30,000 globally dispersed alumni of USC, who productively populate a wide range of professions. Our 95-year legacy of holistic, transformative education rests firmly on pillars of excellence in Intellectual Curiousity, Cultural Diversity, Moral Integrity and Spiritual Nurture – all to build an institution that is indeed #USCSTRONG!
Click the links below to view our graduation photo albums:
- Published in Corporate Communications, News
Happy Administrative Professionals Week!
Authored by: Marsha Ramsamoojh-Harris, Director, HR
Administrative Professionals Week is celebrated every last week in April and this year it will be observed from April 23-29, with April 26 being Administrative Professionals Day.
Here at USC, Administrative professionals play a vital role in our journey Beyond Excellence. They are the backbone of the organization, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. It is essential to honor and recognize their efforts.
USC’s Human Resources Department honors and recognizes your invaluable contributions to the efficient daily operations of our beloved USC. We pause and reflect to say thank you to our “unsung heroes”. Thank you for your hard work, dedication and positive attitude. We are grateful for everything that you do, whether you serve at the Main Campus or the Satellite Sites, or in a School or Department. Continue to strive for excellence and be operationally efficient daily.
We appreciate you!
- Published in News
Olympiad 2023: The Return!
Author: Mr. Le-Roy Pierre, Director, Sport & Physical Department
March 16, 2023 is etched in the hearts and minds of all who attended and participated in USC
Olympiad 2023. What a return after a three-year drought due to COVID 19. Tobago Campus, South
Campus and the six schools of USC campus, namely Graduate studies, Theology and Religion, Social
Sciences, Science Technology and Allied Health, Education, and Business; were well represented at
our annual sports day. The Honourable Marvin Gonzales, Minister of Public Utilities and Member of Parliament for the constituency of Lopinot/Bon Air West, was on hand to take the salute from the march past teams and bring greetings to all in attendance.
The action was electrifying from the March Past to the invitational races and final event – USC fastest
man and woman. Each track event had spectators on the edge of their seats and on their feet with
nail biting finishes as participants competed in friendly rivalry for medals, points and bragging rights.
The novelty events that included races such as the Scots Man Strutt, Water Balloon Toss and Ride
the Horsey left competitors in fits of laughter.
A new addition to Olympiad 2023 was the invitational inter-university 100 meters and 4 x 100
meters male and female races. Both races were truly memorable ones.
UWI dominated the female version of both races, however, in the male version of the races the tables turned on UWI.
USC’s 100M specialist Njanu Bellamy obliterated the field of UWI athletes coached by Trinidad & Tobago’s Jehue Gordon.
It was time for the men’s 4 x 100M relay. MIC, UWI and USC took their places. Ezekiel Salvary, Shaun
Smith, Jasiel Toppin and anchor man Njanu Bellamy of USC smelt gold. The starter gave her
instructions and the whistle was blown. It was a close race from start to finish as all teams gave their
best performance. The race was very close at each change over, but USC men wanted it badly and
gave a truly magical and breathtaking performance coming from behind in the second leg crossing
the finish line. It took some time before the spectators could catch their breaths and settle down.
USC won in the closest of finishes.
At the end of Olympiad 2023 the results were announced:
Novelty Events
Victor Lodorum – Aaron Atwell – School of Social Sciences
Victrix Lodorum – Keslyn Harrow – School of Theology and Religion
Track Events
- Victor Lodorum – Njanu Bellamy – School of Science, Technology and Allied Health
- Victrix Lodorum – Atiya Cummings – School of Science, Technology and Allied Health
USC Fastest Man – Njanu Bellamy – School of Science, Technology and Allied Health
USC Fastest Woman – Atiya Cummings – School of Science, Technology and Allied Health
March Past Winner
School of Science Technology & Allied Health
Champion School 2023
School of Business & Entrepreneurship
After the results, all left for their various destinations with commendations for a day well spent. Back
at the office and on the ground the buzz was about a successful day spent at Olympiad 2023 at Larry
Gomes Stadium.
Sound the trumpets, ring your bells as Olympiad 2024 promises to be grander than 2023.
The FreeDOM Clinic at USC
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In collaboration with the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists, United Hands Inc. hosted the FreeDOM Clinic. From March 13-16, 2023 members of the public were able to access free Dental, Optical and Medical care at the USC Auditorium on USC’s Main Campus in Maracas Valley, St. Joseph.
With doors opening at 6:30am daily, patients were lined up as early as 2:00am in anticipation of being served by FreeDOM Clinic’s team of 15 volunteer Dentists, Optometrists and Medical Doctors.
Doing business as FreeDOM Clinic USA, over the past seven (7) years, United Hands has delivered the same care to thousands of uninsured or underinsured patients in the USA, Antigua, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Ghana, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, South Africa, Suriname and previously in Trinidad & Tobago.
On Wednesday, March 15, 2023 The FreeDOM Clinic was visited by Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for St. Ann’s East; His Excellency Arthur H.W. Williams, High Commissioner for Jamaica; His Worship the Mayor Alderman, Joel Martinez, Mayor of the City of Port of Spain; the Honourable Esmond Forde, Member of Parliament for Tunapuna, the Honorable Corey Selvon, Councillor for Maracas/Santa Margarita, and Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of the University of the Southern Caribbean.
Additional partners and sponsors of the FreeDOM Clinic include the Rotary Club of Port of Spain, MP Esmond Forde, Councillor Corey Selvon, the South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, and the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists.
The FreeDOM Clinic will complete its final day of service on Thursday, March 16, 2023.
We express gratitude to all who volunteered and lent their time and support to ensure the FreeDOM Clinic’s tremendous success.
- Published in Corporate Communications, Events, News
Blitz 2023 Contacts to Impact!
Authored By: Mrs. Rachel Sealy, University Chaplain
USC student Blitz is one of the anticipated event on the school’s calendar. It is the time where students with a heart for service and mission get involved in conducting the Sabbath’s Day service and other evangelistic meetings at local churches throughout Trinidad. It is also used as an opportunity for promoting the academic programs of the University.
This year, under the theme, CONTACT TO IMPACT, over sixty students filled with USCIAN pride carried the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Debe, La Romaine & the South Orapouche SDA Church in the south of Trinidad. This is phase I of Blitz 2023.
This initiative, under the Office of Spiritual Development and in collaboration with the AY Society of the Caring University Church, harnessed and organized the six ministries under the Iconnect Ministry for impact. This is the first time that Blitz is being executed through the iConnect Ministry brand, which was developed four years ago by the Office of Spiritual Development as a vehicle for spiritual growth and engagement of students and faculty.
Branded with their individual iConnect T-Shirts, iPray, iPraise, iProvide, iPrevail, iProclaim, and iPreach, students led out in the various aspects of the church’s programming from the Sabbath School service, the Divine or mid-day Service and the AY Service. The members and visitors were blessed by the presence of the students. One church member even requested to join the iPraise ministry! His Luv Choir was also featured.
President Dr. Colwick Wilson also joined in the day’s activities bringing greetings and promoting the University. As the busses departed at the end of the day, they carried students back to campus who were filled with joy and thanksgiving to their God for the wonderful opportunity to make contact with the South Churches and to make an impact for His Kingdom.
- Published in News
USC 95th Anniversary Celebration 6K Run
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
As Sunday dawned on March 5, 2023, 79 runners from across Trinidad & Tobago gathered at the starting line for the USC 95th Anniversary Celebration 6K Run. With excitement and energy buzzing in the air, runners prepared themselves mentally and physically for the task ahead.
From Good News SDA Chapel in St. Augustine, the run’s route was set along the trails and parks of the city, with the runners winding their way into the picturesque landscape of the Maracas Valley. The group’s determination was rewarded with clear skies and a light breeze, providing the perfect conditions as they made their way to the finish line at the USC Main Campus.
Along the route, runners were hydrated by water stations manned by USC Students, Faculty, Staff and Administrators. Runners were escorted by mobile units of the Trinidad & Tobago Police Service, while an ambulance from the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists brought up the rear.
Seemingly unfazed by the distance, runners seamlessly transitioned into an aerobic burnout. Compound movements and dynamic stretches ensured that sore muscles were in low attendance on Monday Morning.
Results
Results of the USC 95th Anniversary Celebration 6K Run are as follows:
- First Place Male Overall – Mr. Edmond Ramirez
- First Place Female Overall – Mrs. Camille La Fleur
- First Place Faculty/Staff Male – Mr. Rendell Francis
- First Place Faculty/Staff Female – Mrs. Ann-Marie Charles
- First Place Student Male – Mr. Tayne Alexander
- First Place Student Female – Ms. Heqpera Khafra
Trophies were presented by Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, and Mr. LeRoy Pierre, Coordinator of the the Sport and Physical Education Department (SPED).
USC Celebrates 17 Years of Accredited University Status
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) commemorates 17 years of accredited university status with its Charter Week scheduled for March 5-11, 2023.
On March 16, 2006, under the leadership of then president, Dr. Trevor Gardener, Caribbean Union College (CUC) received the conferral of university status. With this conferral and a change in name, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) became the third accredited university in Trinidad and Tobago.
Charter Week 2023 celebrates this anniversary and reflects on the countless accomplishments, innovations, and breakthroughs that we have achieved over these 17 years. The week’s theme, “The Sum of Excellence: #USCSTRONG”, encapsulates USC’s rich tertiary experience. Our institutional philosophy rests firmly on pillars of excellence in teaching and academia, research, administrative service and support, and holistic Christian Education – all to build an institution that is indeed #USCSTRONG.
This prestigious achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing world-class education and fostering an environment of innovation and intellectual curiosity that will inspire future generations of leaders, thinkers, and creators. As we commemorate this special occasion, we renew our commitment to pursuing academic excellence and providing our students with the skills and knowledge they need to become “…extraordinary servants of God to humanity”.
To learn more about USC’s Charter Week 2023 and planned activities, visit usc.edu.tt/charterweek.
- Published in News
USC Recognizes Service and Sacrifice of Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a defining moment in the history of healthcare and has brought the dedication and bravery of healthcare professionals to the forefront. They have put their own lives at risk to care for the sick and have been instrumental in fighting the spread of the virus. Despite the challenging conditions they faced, they remained steadfast in their commitment to helping others and never lost their compassionate spirit.
The Health Ministry Department of the Caring University Church, led by Dr. Sandra Reid, recognizes the tireless efforts of our healthcare professionals and the critical role they play in our society. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the incredible sacrifices they make to help others and has shown us the importance of valuing and supporting those who care for us in our time of need. Their dedication and bravery are an inspiration to us all and serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
On Thursday, February 9, 2023 Dr. Colwick Wilson and Pastor Terry John presented plaques to healthcare professionals of the North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) and Medical Associates (St. Joseph) as tangible tokens of recognition of and gratitude for their dedication to service. These presentations were made on behalf of the University of the Southern Caribbean in partnership with the Caring University Church.
They have been on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19, working tirelessly to find ways to mitigate its effects and prevent further spread. Their work has been critical in ensuring that those who have been affected by the virus receive the care they need, and their contributions will have a lasting impact on our society.
We say, “Thank you!”, to all healthcare professionals for their sacrifice and unwavering commitment to serving others and for being a beacon of hope during these trying times.
- Published in News