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, Office of the President
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.
USC and Community Partners Join Forces for FreeDOM Clinic: A Mission of Hope & Healing
By Simone Augustus & Peggy Guerrero
In a testament to the power of community collaboration and selfless service, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) partnered with United Hands Inc., to host the FreeDOM Clinic from March 13 to March 16, 2023. This initiative, organized by United Hands Inc., reached a significant milestone by offering free dental, optical, and medical care to the public at the USC Auditorium on USC’s Main Campus in Maracas Valley.
United Hands Inc., known as FreeDOM Clinic USA, has a remarkable track record of delivering vital healthcare services to uninsured or underinsured patients not only in Trinidad and Tobago but also across the globe, from the USA and Antigua to Ghana and South Africa.
Patients, recognizing the importance of this mission, began lining up as early as 2:00 a.m. each day, with doors officially opening at 6:30 a.m. The FreeDOM Clinic’s team of 15 volunteer Dentists, Optometrists, and Medical Doctors worked tirelessly to serve the community, embodying the spirit of humanitarianism.
Wednesday, March 15, 2023, marked a special day for the FreeDOM Clinic as it received a visit from distinguished individuals, including 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. Their presence highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort in addressing healthcare disparities.
Over the course of four days, the FreeDOM Clinic’s dedicated team provided services to an astonishing 1,225 individuals. This included addressing 214 medical cases, aiding 495 individuals with vision services, and providing dental care to 516 people. These numbers not only underscore the pressing need for affordable healthcare but also highlight the incredible dedication of the medical professionals and volunteers who made it all possible.
The success of the FreeDOM Clinic would not have been possible without the generous support of partners and sponsors. The Nursing Council of Trinidad & Tobago, Dental Council of Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago Optometrists Association, Blue Waters, Caribbean Health Foods, Nestle Trinidad, USC’s Food Services and Nurse Education Departments, the Rotary Club of Port of Spain, MP Esmond Forde, Councillor Corey Selvon, the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists, the South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, and the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists all played pivotal roles in making this mission a reality. Their contributions ensured that vital medical services reached those who needed them most.
The mission was graciously hosted by MP Esmond Forde, who, alongside other contributors, facilitated community transportation, promoted the clinic in various communities, and provided essential volunteer assistance.
The Rotary Club of Port of Spain also made significant contributions to the mission, providing invaluable support in promotion within various communities, volunteer assistance, and corporate sponsorship. Their innovative suggestions, such as implementing a pre-registration drive to gauge prospective attendance were instrumental in the mission’s success.
The contributions from various donors, including providing daily meals for physicians and volunteers were pivotal in realizing the mission’s goals.
United Hands and Freedom Clinic didn’t stop at providing medical care; they extended their outreach through a week of prayer at the Caribbean Union College Secondary School, Maracas SDA Primary School, University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), and other outreach programs at various SDA schools in Trinidad. United Hands and Freedom Clinic also donated 14 laptop computers to the Maracas SDA Primary School, ensuring that the gift of education continues to uplift the community. These initiatives reinforced their commitment to holistic health and spiritual nourishment.
The impact of this mission is profound and enduring. United Hands has committed to returning in 2025 to continue providing invaluable service to the community. Their work, which seamlessly blends medical care, spiritual nourishment, and community upliftment, stands as a shining example of the profound impact of selfless service.
In the words of Ann Burnett, Executive Director of United Hands, “Helping those in need” is not just a motto; it’s a calling that has transformed countless lives. The unity of hands in service has woven a tapestry of hope, healing, and community care that transcends the present and inspires us all to continue working together for a better future. The USC and its partners are immensely proud of this impactful collaboration, and they look forward to future endeavors that will continue to transform lives.
- Published in News, Office of the President
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
USC at the NHRC 2022!
Author: Dr. Dave V. Cassie, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
For yet another year, the University of the Southern Caribbean has thrown its full support behind the hosting of the National Health Research Conference 2022. Health, well-being and research is a vital part of the philosophy of Adventist education and are part of the main pillars of USC’s development and advancement. This year the conference was held face to face for the first time on November 25 at the Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain, Trinidad under the theme: “Pandemics, NCDs and the Future: When Emerging Infections and NCDs Meet” The conference, now in its third year was previously held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
At the recently concluded event USC President, Dr. Colwick Wilson brought reflective and engaging opening remarks along with his counterparts from the University of Trinidad and Tobago, University of the West Indies as well as Dr. Faith B. Yisrael, Secretary of Health, Wellness and Social Protection of the Tobago House of Assembly. Also in attendance via Zoom was Professor Jonathan Patz of the University of Wisconsin-Madison who brought an enlightening feature presentation entitled: “The Climate Crisis: Implications for both Infectious and Non-Communicable Diseases” which highlighted the connection between climate change and the emergence of disease. This was then followed by the feature address which was given by the The Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago.
Students of USC were also part of this exciting and informative event. Research from student representatives of the School of Social Sciences was shared via poster presentations. Ms. Allison Abraham-Riley shared her research on Peer Pressure and Alcohol Use among Tertiary level students in Trinidad and Ms. Kere Wylie shared her research on An Assessment of the Impact of HIV Knowledge on Sexual Behavior among Young Adults In Tobago. Ms. Arielle Jobe and her counterparts Naomi Palmer and Stephanie Murphy shared their group research project on Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance among University Students: A Phenomenological Study.
Planning for this successful event began more than six months ago and was spear-headed by Professor Donald T. Simeon of UWI, Chair of the Inter-Institutional Planning Committee, a committee made up of representatives from partner institutions including Ministry of Health, THA, CCHSRD, UWI, USC, UTT and RHAs. USC was represented on that committee by Dr. Edward Clarke, Dr. Susan Chand and Dr. Dave Cassie.
During the day there were sixteen oral presentations which highlighted health research being conducted by students, faculty and staff among the partner institutions and were categorized under the following topics: Infectious diseases, Chronic non-communicable diseases, Clinical/Laboratory studies and Mental Health and Family Planning. Additionally, there were over seventy research poster presentations that were displayed via electronic poster boards. The day culminated with an Awards Ceremony to celebrate the Lifetime Research Achievement Awardee, Professor Terrence Seemungal of UWI as well as to distribute prizes for outstanding oral and poster presentations. As we look forward to NHRC 2023, we are confident of USC’s continued support and involvement in this event and its forward thrust in the areas of health, well-being and research.
Dr. Shirley A. McGarrell’s Future Leaders’ Debate Competition Re-Launch
Debate History
On Monday 14th November, USC relaunched its annual intracampus debate competition. This tournament usually hosted by the School of Education and Humanities, in partnership with the Division of Student Services and Enrolment Management, had as its patron this year, its President, Dr. Colwick Wilson. He re-launched the debate in anticipation of its continuation and developmemt.
The competition first debuted in November, 2013. At that time, it was titled the USC Future Leaders’ Debate Competition. Subsequently, in 2015, it was named in honour of Dr. Shirley McGarrell, a stellar figure and former leader on the campus. The competition was held, during the years 2013 and 2017, but was unintentionally curtailed as the university became involved in other important debate fora and then was further delayed when the pandemic struck. The recent passing of Dr. McGarrell, as well as USC’s 95th Anniversary celebration, propelled its re-launch.
Debate Highlights
This semester two teams, from two Schools, qualified for the finals: the School of Theology and Religion and the School of Social Sciences. The resolution debated:
Be it resolved that the continued existence of the Commonwealth of Nations is merely a remnant of colonial nostalgia.
This resolution focused on the relevance of the Commonwealth of Nations, which the Queen headed, and is now to be led by King Charles III. The debate teams, with their natural abilities, and a mix of little or no experience, were trained, and presented admirably as they dueled for and against the moot. The School of Social Sciences’ team argued in the affirmative. The School of Theology and Religion’s team opposed the moot.
The timekeeper for the debate was Mr. Hayden McKenna, University Writer and Editor. The Dr. Shirley A. McGarrell’sFuture Leaders’ Debate Committee members are Mr. McKenna, Dr. Terencia Joseph, Mr. Roland Sealy and Ms. Shelley Lyons.
An external panel of adjudicators deliberated and provided appropriate feedback to the debate participants. They were: Chief Adjudicator, Mrs. Petronetta Pierre-Robertson; Attorney-at-Law, Mr. Randall Hector, and special judge and radio personality, Mr. Dale Enoch. Each judge represented an area of expertise to be judged: research skills, argumentation skills and presentation skills.
Dr. Colwick Wilson, President, and Dr. Len Archer, Interim Provost, were present and participated in the prize-giving.
A special guest, alumna, and the current Presiding Officer of the Tobago House of Assembly, Ms. Abby Taylor, was also in attendance and brought greetings from the THA.
Debate Results
The School of Theology and Religion emerged as the winning team.
The School of Social Sciences did very well, falling short by just six points. The most memorable lines came from the SoSS, with Daniel Anthony ending his speech by asking: “Why isn’t the wealth common, in the Commonwealth?” and Brenda Gordon-Rasool taking a cunning jab at team theology in their dapper ties and suits, teasing that they showed up “very colonized in their dressing”. These jabs thrilled the audience.
The members of the teams, who represented in their School colours were:
| School of Theology and Religion (Red) | School of Social Sciences (Blue) |
| Devon Ramlal – 1st Speaker | Ceanna Cyrille – 1st Speaker |
| Termin Ferdinand – 2nd Speaker | Daniel Anthony – 2nd Speaker |
| Dillon Bazil – 3rd Speaker | Brenda Gordon-Rasool – 3rd Speaker |
| Shanka Serrant – Rebuttal Support | Abigail Collins – Rebuttal Support |
| Ashanti Prescott – Reserve |
The other special prizes earned included:
Best Debater, won by Devon Ramlall of the STAR
Best Researcher, won by Ceanna Cyrille of the SoSS
Best Teamwork, the team of Social Sciences
Attractive prizes are to be delivered to the winning teams, inclusive of their special prizes, to the sum of $20,000. The winning team is also to dine with the President, in the near future, as a part of their reward.
Deans and faculty members came out to support. The audience was very responsive, and members of the USC campus community who attended or viewed the debate on YouTube were pleased with the performance of the teams and are eager about the event going forward.
A cocktail reception was held post-debate, at the university’s Board Room with all judges and debaters, organizers, and the President, in attendance.
The competition can be viewed by clicking on the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olfd6mwiem4&t=328s
- Published in News