University of the Southern Caribbean Announces 91st Graduation Celebration
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is pleased to announce its 91st Graduation Weekend, scheduled to take place from June 28-30, 2024. Founded in 1927, USC is a private, coeducational institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its Main Campus located in the beautiful Maracas Valley, USC is committed to providing a holistic educational experience that fosters intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth.
USC’s 91st Graduation Weekend will celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2024 under the theme “Determined Minds, Boundless Futures.” The graduating class has chosen the guiding aim “Guided by Faith, Destined by His Calling” and a scripture text from Romans 12:2 (NKJV): “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
The weekend will feature a series of inspiring and celebratory events:
Friday, June 28, 2024, 7:00pm – Consecration Service
Guest Speaker: Pastor Anthony Hall, President, East Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Saturday, June 29, 2024, 10:30am – Baccalaureate Service
Guest Speaker: Dr. Slimen Saliba, Director of Programs, AdventHealth Leadership Institute
Saturday, June 29, 2024, 4:30pm – Evening of Tributes
Hosts: Mrs. Rachel Sealy, University Chaplain & Mr. Roland Sealy, Chair, Department of Teacher Education
Sunday, June 30, 2024, 9:00am – Commencement Ceremony
Guest Speaker: Dr. The Honorable Keith C. Rowley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
This year’s graduation will also honor our esteemed alumni from the Classes of 1974 and 1999, celebrating them as our Gold and Silver classes, respectively. USC has graduated over 32,000 alumni who have embodied the spirit of our motto, “Beyond Excellence.” These individuals have carried forward our mission “…to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God to humanity through a holistic tertiary educational experience.”
As USC approaches its centennial celebration in 2027, we reflect on a proud legacy of excellence in education. For nearly 100 years, USC has adhered to an educational philosophy that emphasizes the holistic development of the head, heart, and hand. This philosophy is built on the pillars of intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, cultural diversity, and spiritual nurture.
We invite all USC alumni, friends, and family to join us in celebrating the Class of 2024 as they embark on their journey to make a positive impact on the world.
For more information about USC’s 91st Graduation Weekend, visit usc.edu.tt/graduation
- Published in Events, News, President's Newsletter
University of the Southern Caribbean Charts Bold New Course with SP100 Strategic Plan
By Ms. Sherri-lyn Legall, Dean, School of Business and Entrepreneurship (Interim) & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In February 2022, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) embarked on a transformative journey with the commissioning of a strategic planning committee to develop SP100, a comprehensive strategic plan for the period 2022-2027. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, the committee was tasked with crafting a roadmap that would guide the university’s future growth and development.
Dr. Wilson provided the team with broad strategic priorities, setting the stage for a collaborative and inclusive planning process. The committee was further bolstered by the inclusion of two distinguished alumni, who brought with them extensive experience in senior leadership and strategic planning, to offer support and guidance.
Central to the development of SP100 was the engagement of the university’s stakeholders. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees were all invited to participate in a comprehensive survey to share their ideas and aspirations for the university’s future. The feedback from these surveys was meticulously collated and analyzed, revealing key themes and priorities. This initial feedback was shared with the stakeholder groups, and additional input was solicited to ensure that the plan reflected the diverse perspectives of the USC community.
In addition to internal consultations, the SP100 team conducted an extensive external scanning exercise. This analysis provided crucial data on regional and global trends, ensuring that the strategic plan would be both relevant and forward-looking. The team also held in-depth discussions with USC’s senior leadership, including Vice-Presidents, the Provost, and the Human Resources Director, to gain insights into recent operations and ongoing projects. Trustees of the university were kept informed with progress reports and their feedback was incorporated into the draft plan.
The culmination of these efforts was presented at the University’s Colloquium in August 2022. Here, a summary of the recommended strategic priorities and themes was unveiled, and further feedback from the university community was invited. This iterative process ensured that the final draft of the SP100 plan was a true reflection of the collective vision of USC’s stakeholders.
Over the course of six months, the SP100 team met twice a month, working diligently to compile and refine the gathered information. Following a brief end-of-school-year break, the team resumed its efforts, finalizing the strategic projects and plans that would define USC’s path forward.
The SP100 strategic plan represents a bold vision for the University of the Southern Caribbean, one that is grounded in the aspirations of its community and informed by a rigorous analysis of both internal and external factors. As USC moves into the future, the initiatives and activities outlined in SP100 are expected to drive significant growth and innovation, solidifying USC’s position as a leading institution in the region.
With the implementation of SP100, the University of the Southern Caribbean is poised to embark on a new era of excellence and impact, fostering an environment of learning and development that will benefit students, faculty, and the wider community for years to come.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
Cultivating Multilingualism: USC’s ICCTL Hosts Successful French Guiana ESL Immersion Camp
By Dr. Grace Jacott, Coordinator – ICCTL & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) International Center for Corporate Training and Languages (ICCTL) recently concluded a successful two-week vacation camp aimed at enhancing English language skills for over eighty participants from French Guiana. From May 6-17, 2024, children, parents, and educators from Ecole Adventiste and La Perseverance schools participated in the immersive program designed to improve English proficiency and explore Trinidad’s vibrant culture.
Dr. Grace Jacott, Coordinator of ICCTL, spearheaded the initiative, which sought to provide an engaging and comprehensive English-learning experience. Recognizing the basic introduction to English in the French Guianese elementary curriculum, ICCTL invited the Seventh-day Adventist elementary schools to Trinidad for a full immersion experience.
The camp had three primary goals:
- To immerse native French speakers in an English-rich environment.
- To introduce USC’s various ESL offerings and undergraduate programs.
- To provide cultural exposure and tourism experiences in Trinidad.
English Immersion Strategies & Learning Initiatives
To achieve the first objective, ICCTL created an environment saturated with English language activities. Each day started with the Lord’s Prayer in English, followed by YouTube sing-alongs of familiar Bible choruses. Closed-captioning and action verb demonstrations enhanced word identification and comprehension.
Innovative strategies, such as placing appealing posters in play areas, encouraged children to read while playing. The application of the VARK learning model (Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic) ensured comprehensive engagement. This included singing along to YouTube videos to learn grammar, active modeling of concepts in the classroom, and writing activities using USC-provided textbooks.
Adults in the group also participated in active learning. In one notable session, Mrs. Bengochea led participants in a creative exercise where they designed and described their own costumes, applying new vocabulary about clothing. All participants received academic information packages, including details on USC’s ESL programs and a French/English ESL video for further dissemination.
The camp also featured field trips guided by native English speakers, allowing participants to explore Trinidad’s Eastern, Southern, and Western regions. Highlights included the Caroni Bird Sanctuary and the La Brea Pitch Lake, both of which were described as “awesome” by the visitors.
Commitment to Excellence
USC’s core pillars, Spiritual Ethos and Academic Excellence, were integral to the camp’s structure. Daily devotional programs supported the spiritual development of participants. Separate classes for adults and children, facilitated by USC faculty and regular ESL tutors respectively, underscored the commitment to academic excellence through varied pedagogical approaches catering to all learning styles.
The camp also aimed to bolster ICCTL’s strategic goals, including increased marketing of its regular ESL programs. Participants returned to French Guiana with ESL advertisements for widespread dissemination. The short language courses offered by ICCTL have proven to be lucrative, contributing to the center’s financial sustainability.
The two-week camp not only enhanced the English proficiency of its participants but also fostered cultural exchange and strengthened educational ties between Trinidad and French Guiana. The positive feedback and successful outcomes of the program highlight USC’s dedication to providing impactful language education and immersive cultural experiences.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC Hosts First Annual World Day for Safety at the Workplace
By Mr. Hayden McKenna, University Writer/Editor & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) marked its first observance of World Day for Safety at the Workplace on April 29, 2024, following the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) global initiative established in 2003. This day, traditionally observed on April 28, emphasizes the prevention of workplace accidents and diseases and leverages the ILO’s strengths in tripartism and social dialogue.
USC’s Occupational Health and Safety Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Security Services, organized this inaugural event, which is set to become an annual fixture. This observance aligns USC with national and regional efforts to ensure health, safety, and security on campus and during off-campus activities such as Blitz, Olympiad, and concert tours.
In a conversation with Mrs. Jillene John-Harris, Assistant Director of Human Resources responsible for Labour Relations and Benefits, and overseer of the Occupational Safety and Health Unit, she confirmed this was USC’s first celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The idea originated from a departmental meeting where Mrs. Ellin Sorzano-John highlighted the ILO’s observance on April 28, 2024, sparking the initiative for USC’s event.
While the main events, including a campus march, opening ceremony, and a building evacuation challenge, were held on the Main Campus, efforts were made to involve the Extension Campuses and Satellite Sites. Directors of these sites participated in a special training session facilitated by Health and Safety Practitioner Mr. Ronald Hunte and USC’s Director of Security, Mr. Stevenson Byng. Although a debating competition on Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) issues was planned for students across all USC sites, it was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Mrs. John-Harris outlined the primary goal of the Health and Safety Unit: to foster a culture of health, safety, and security at USC and to convey that these elements start with individual responsibility. “Health, safety, and security is everybody’s business,” she emphasized.
Key highlights of the day included:
- The enthusiastic participation of children from the Maracas Seventh-day Adventist Primary School (MSDA) and CUC Secondary School in the campus march and opening ceremony.
- An insightful address by Mr. Franz Brisbane, Chief Inspector of the Occupational Safety and Health Authority and Agency of Trinidad and Tobago, who served as the featured speaker.
- A competitive and educational placard competition.
- Valuable information shared during the training sessions.
Representatives from Caribbean Health Foods Limited, an on-campus entity, also took part in the formal opening ceremony.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Mrs. John-Harris noted, “In my view, the day was successful. It met our main objective of promoting the culture of health, safety, and security on the campus.” Looking ahead, she expressed plans for future observances to include a wider range of stakeholders and more hands-on activities, aiming to deepen the integration of health and safety culture across all USC sites in the Caribbean.
As USC moves forward, the commitment to promoting a safe and healthy work environment remains a top priority, ensuring the well-being of all members of the university community.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
T&TEC Hosts Commissioning Ceremony for New Field Lights at USC
By Kadan Esson, Corporate Communications Assistant
On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) celebrated a significant enhancement in its infrastructure with the installation of new field lights. The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) hosted a ceremonious event to mark this milestone under the Public Lighting Programme, reflecting USC’s unwavering commitment to fostering exceptional facilities for its students and the broader Maracas Valley community.
The newly installed lights are more than a mere upgrade. They stand as a testament to USC’s dedication to enhancing the overall experience for its community, promising improved visibility and safety that will elevate the university’s athletic programs and make evening activities more enjoyable and accessible.
Mr. Curvis Francois, General Manager of T&TEC, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Marvin Gonzales, Minister of Public Utilities, for his pivotal role in securing the essential funding for this project. Mr. Francois also acknowledged The Honourable Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Member of Parliament for St. Ann’s East, for her steadfast determination and effort. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, Mr. Leroy Pierre, Coordinator of the Sports and Physical Education Department, and Dr. Kern Tobias, Chairman of USC’s Board of Trustees, for their vital assistance and collaboration on this initiative.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Colwick Wilson, Dr. Kern Tobias expressed sincere appreciation, noting that the new lights would provide enjoyment for both current and future members of the Maracas Valley Community for many years to come.
Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly highlighted the symbolic significance of the ceremony, stating it represented “bringing light to a darkened time in the Maracas Valley.” She praised USC for being a beacon of hope and assured Mr. Francois that the lights would be responsibly utilized by the university.
Addressing the audience, the Honourable Marvin Gonzales shared his concerns about the lack of community activities nationwide. He commended the ceremony for sending a powerful message to USC and the Maracas Valley, emphasizing that “light will always come to dispel darkness,” symbolizing hope and divine presence. Minister Gonzales urged the community to value and maintain the new lights, encouraged by Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly’s commitment to USC’s responsible use. He also called on USC to continue investing in the holistic development of its students, emphasizing their social, spiritual, and academic well-being.
This event underscored the strength of collaboration and community support. USC extends heartfelt thanks to T&TEC and the Sports and Physical Education Department (SPED) for their dedication and contribution to this project. The university looks forward to many more successful partnerships, continuing to illuminate the path for its students and community members.
Concluding the auspicious event, the Maracas Community Combined and USC’s President’s XI faced off in an exhilarating cricket match, with the Maracas Community emerging as the champions. This thrilling conclusion served as a fitting celebration of the new lights and the community spirit they symbolize.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC Expands State-of-the-Art Healthcare Education Facilities with AdventHealth Partnership
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In a significant step towards bolstering healthcare education in Trinidad, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has announced a major expansion and modernization of its Nursing & Allied Health Department. Located on the ground floor of the USC Auditorium, these new facilities will now feature cutting-edge resources essential for training future healthcare professionals. This development comes as the university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program continues to grow, establishing itself as a flagship offering with application numbers consistently surpassing current capacity.
A key driver behind this expansion is a strategic collaboration with AdventHealth in Orlando, Florida. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare education, providing USC with vital medical equipment and supplies that will significantly enhance the learning experience for nursing students.
The generous donation from AdventHealth includes a wide array of advanced medical training tools and supplies. Among the key items are rolling medical storage carts, Heart Start AED Trainers, Laerdal AED Trainers, and a range of CPR manikins tailored for both adult and pediatric resuscitation. Additionally, sophisticated simulators such as the Megacode Kid and birthing simulators will offer students realistic, hands-on training scenarios.
Further contributions include a variety of essential medical supplies, from N95 masks and sterile gauze pads to surgical gloves and IV administration sets. This comprehensive collection of resources ensures that USC’s facilities will be equipped to offer a robust, practical education that meets contemporary healthcare standards.
USC’s initiative to upgrade its facilities is a testament to its commitment to providing high-quality education that keeps pace with the evolving landscape of healthcare. The enhanced Nursing & Allied Health Facilities will not only cater to the growing number of applicants but also elevate the educational standards, aligning them with international best practices.
As the university prepares to implement these advancements, the anticipation among faculty and students is palpable. The new resources will enable more interactive and practical learning experiences, equipping USC graduates with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their future careers.
This partnership with AdventHealth exemplifies the impact of collaborative efforts in the educational sector, fostering growth and innovation. As USC moves forward with these improvements, it continues to set a benchmark for healthcare education in the region, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare industry.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
Health Heroes: Volunteers Bring Vital Medical Services to Trinidad & Tobago
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The TrinBago Progressive Association of the USA, Inc. (TPA) and Action Performance Commitment Services Inc. (APC) recently concluded their 11th Medical Mission and Outreach in Trinidad & Tobago. From May 13 to May 27, a dedicated team of volunteers conducted a series of free health clinics across the islands, providing a wide range of essential health services to the local communities.
The two-week mission aimed to address various health needs by offering dental cleanings, teeth extractions, fillings, root canals, blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, lung capacity tests, BMI readings, nutritional counseling, naturopathic counseling, and psychological counseling. These comprehensive services were made available at no cost, ensuring that even the underserved populations had access to quality healthcare.
One of the highlights of the mission was the free health clinic held at the University of the Southern Caribbean on May 16-17 and May 21-22. These events were a collaborative effort with local partners, including the University of the Southern Caribbean, the South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists. The clinics saw a substantial turnout, reflecting the community’s need and appreciation for the services provided.
The volunteer team comprised a diverse group of healthcare professionals and support staff including Dentists and Dental Assistants, Podiatrists, Naturopaths, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Registered Nurses, Psychologists, Social Workers, and Administrative Personnel.
The mission’s impact extended beyond immediate medical treatments. Through nutritional and naturopathic counseling, the team aimed to empower individuals with the knowledge to maintain healthier lifestyles. Psychological counseling provided much-needed support for mental health concerns, a crucial aspect often overlooked in medical missions.
“Health is holistic,” emphasized Dr. Janice McLean, a naturopathic doctor on the mission. “Our approach is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, and that includes mental and emotional well-being.”
The TPA and APC’s commitment to improving healthcare in Trinidad & Tobago is evident in their sustained efforts over the years. This 11th mission underscores their dedication to fostering healthier communities through collaboration, compassion, and comprehensive care.
As the volunteers return to their respective homes, the lasting impact of their work remains in the hearts and lives of those they served. The mission has not only provided immediate relief but has also sown the seeds for long-term health improvements in the communities of Trinidad & Tobago.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
Dr. Stephen Carryl Delivers the Keynote at the USCLA
By Hayden McKenna
On Friday May 03, 2024, the fourth session of the USC Leadership Academy (USCLA) was convened at the Social Sciences Auditorium on the USC Main Campus. The USCLA is arguably the flagship initiative of the actionable agenda of SP 100 (USC’s current Strategic Plan) in the area of faculty and staff development. The optimistic rationale that underpins the USCLA initiative is that the quality of the University’s survival and improvement as a thriving, relevant mission-fulfilling Adventist institution of higher learning into the foreseeable future has a direct relationship with the quality of the leadership talent it develops.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Dr. Stephen Carryl, Chief Executive Officer of The Community Hospital (TCH). Based in Cocorite Port of Spain, TCH is the oldest surviving private healthcare institution in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Carryl is a faithful friend and a loyal alumnus of our University. He also shares a decades-long mutually supportive friendship with USC’s President Dr. Colwick Wilson, that germinated in Cedar Hall. They both entered Caribbean Union College (now the University of the Southern Caribbean) in 1979 as Theology Majors and lodged together, at the famous Cedar Hall.
Dr. Carryl switched his academic focus to Biology and enrolled in Oakwood College (now Oakwood University) in 1981. After completing his baccalaureate degree at Oakwood, Dr. Carryl went on to Loma Linda University School of Medicine, where he earned an MD. His education and career journey also includes a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from the University of Southern California and a highly competitive surgical internship and residency at the Brookdale University Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Carryl is a board-certified surgeon with expertise in Laparoscopic Surgery, Bariatric Surgery and Robotic Surgery. He rose to the position of Chairman of Surgery, Chief of Perioperative Services and Director of Bariatric Surgery at the prestigious Harlem Hospital Center, before making the sacrificial decision in 2022, to bring his talents to Western Main Road, Cocorite, taking on the position as CEO of TCH.
As first-fruits of the visionary leadership of the Cedar Hall comrades – Carryl and Wilson – in September last year, TCH in partnership with USC, formally opened the TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic. Beyond the obvious passing of the executive management of USC’s health service to TCH, this strategic partnership has added value to the Maracas Valley, St. Joseph community and has opened the door to mutually beneficial operational synergies for the two Adventist institutions.
Dr. Carryl’s keynote at the USCLA was as insightful as it was inspiring. Drawing heavily on leadership lessons we can learn from competitive sports, he sharply contrasted behaviours and habits of low morale teams with those of high morale teams. He argued that the morale of a team is the collective responsibility of the group. Members take responsibility for it and do not solely heap the responsibility on the leader.
Using the case of American Olympic gymnast Kerri Strugg and her courageous feat of vaulting on an injured left ankle in support of her team’s successful bid at winning gold in the 1996 Summer Games in Atlanta, Dr. Carryl made the point that the tolerance of pain seems to improve when you are winning. By contrast when you are losing and morale is low, everything hurts. Teams with a winning mentality are more adept at persevering and succeeding through hardship.
Dr. Carryl also used the case of the Dream Team, the USA Men’s Basketball Team that represented their country in the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona. Although being the birthplace of basketball and having the most prestigious league in the world, at the previous Olympics in 1988, the USA could only muster bronze behind the gold of its geopolitical rival the Soviet Union and the silver of Yugoslavia. Although the US had not fielded its best possible team (professional basketball players were not selected for national duty) the agony of not winning gold felt like the Soviets had literally beaten the US at their own game! For the 1992 Olympics, the US broke with its self-imposed handicap and selected professional players to its Olympic Team. The twelve member “Dream Team” as it came to be famously known comprised of a constellation of NBA stars and one college player from Duke University. This team won gold, not dropping a single game on its way to the top of the podium. Dr. Carryl shared that the element of patriotism, playing for one’s country, for something bigger than themselves, bigger than the Larry O’brien Trophy and a championship ring, the privilege of being standard-bearers for the star-spangled banner mattered greatly to these professional athletes, many of whom were accustomed to winning. The point is that who and what you are playing for matters. Mobilizing organizational patriotism and inspiring our teams to play for the big and noble cause is critical leadership activity.
Dr. Carryl also argued that well led teams and organization ensure that there is purposive alignment of priorities and activities with vision and mission. On this matter he cautioned that organizations must avoid what he called “the trap of multiple destinations”.
Dr. Carryl selected three of John Maxwell’s 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership for brief discussion. The law of the lid places a realistic limit on a person’s leadership ability based on factors such as people skills, competence at planning, vision, passion for success and past results. Leaders are not able to lead teams higher than their lid.
The law of influence contends that leadership does not come with job titles or de-jure appointments. It comes rather by a person’s ability to influence others. Leaders are persons who others follow.
The law of addition says that leaders add value through serving others. Leadership does not exist where there is no value added or no legacy created and left.
Dr. Carryl’s presentation challenged participants to reflection, deep introspection and inspired action.
At this meeting of the USCLA, Mr. Clive Clark, Transport Commissioner of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, was present to receive the Excellence in Industry Award. Commissioner Clark, a distinguished alumnus of USC, is nationally credited for his transformative leadership at the Licensing Division of the Ministry of Works and Transportation. He has played a pivotal role in the implementation of ICT tools at the Division, resulting in the marked improvement of its operational efficiency and customer service outcomes. In his acceptance address, he expressed his gratitude to USC for giving him his foundation. He also shared his observation that USC graduates employed at the Division, stand out for their superior work ethic and the contributions they make.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC Hosts Occupational Therapy Scholar Day 2024: A Celebration of Research and Achievement
By Ms. Kimarah Reefe, Director, Occupational Therapy (Ag.) & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
On Monday, April 8, 2024, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) held its annual Occupational Therapy Scholar Day, an event that showcased the innovative research and celebrated the remarkable achievements of the graduating Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) students. This distinguished event underscored the dedication, hard work, and scholarly contributions within the field of occupational therapy.
The day’s proceedings were masterfully guided by Dr. Ronnie Roberts, the Graduate Studies Coordinator, who served as the Master of Ceremony. Dr. Roberts ensured that the event ran smoothly and engagingly, setting an inspiring tone for a day of intellectual exchange and celebration. The event commenced with opening remarks by Ms. Kimarah Reefe, the Acting Director of the MSOT program. Ms. Reefe lauded the students’ hard work and dedication, highlighting the significance of their research in advancing occupational therapy.
Following Ms. Reefe’s address, USC President Dr. Colwick Wilson and Provost Dr. Len Archer extended a warm welcome to all attendees. Both Dr. Wilson and Dr. Archer emphasized the importance of research and scholarship in occupational therapy, commending the students and faculty for their invaluable contributions. Dr. Lena Caesar, Dean of Graduate Studies and Vice Provost, introduced the keynote speaker, setting the stage for an enlightening address by the Honorable Senator Dr. Paul Richards.
Dr. Richards delivered a compelling keynote address titled “Factors that Contribute to Life Satisfaction of Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Trinidad & Tobago.” His speech delved into the unique challenges and rewards faced by parents of children with autism, offering profound insights into the socio-cultural dynamics at play and suggesting holistic approaches to support these parents.
The core of the program featured a series of research presentations by the MSOT students, reflecting the depth and diversity of their studies. The first presentation, by Ms. Lynthea Reefe and Mr. Mikkel Wilson, focused on “The Impact of Chronic Pain on Social Participation in Adults in Trinidad and Tobago: A Mixed Methods Study.” Their research highlighted the significant challenges faced by adults with chronic pain in Trinidad and Tobago, exploring various coping strategies and healthcare interventions.
The second presentation, by Ms. Kristen Mollineau and Ms. Tamika Thomas, examined “Access to Healthcare in Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Trinidad: A Qualitative Study.” Their research addressed the barriers these individuals face in accessing adequate healthcare and provided recommendations for improving healthcare services.
The final student presentation, by Ms. Chelsea Walcott and Ms. Aneka Thomas, explored “Perceptions of Local Occupational Therapists on Their Potential Role in Inclusive Education in Trinidad and Tobago.” Their study revealed the potential contributions of occupational therapists in shaping inclusive education policies and practices in Trinidad and Tobago.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Diadrey-Ann Sealy, Research Professor. Dr. Sealy reflected on the day’s events, emphasizing the importance of continued research and collaboration in occupational therapy. She celebrated the dedication and success of the MSOT graduating students, acknowledging their scholarly journey over the past three years.
Occupational Therapy Scholar Day 2024 was not only a platform for showcasing research but also a celebration of the dedication and scholarly achievements of USC’s MSOT students. The event highlighted the critical role of research in advancing the field of occupational therapy and underscored the importance of continued academic and professional growth.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
University of the Southern Caribbean Launches New Recycling Initiative: iCARE
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
On May 3, 2024, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) announced the launch of its Recyclable Solid Waste Collection Project, known as iCARE, with the introduction of new recycling bins across its Main Campus. This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting environmental stewardship within the university community.
The iCARE project is designed to encourage proper waste management and recycling practices among students, faculty, and staff. The newly installed bins are strategically placed around the campus to facilitate easy and convenient disposal of recyclable materials. These bins are designated for specific types of post-consumer beverage containers, including plastic (PET/Type 1) bottles, drink cartons, aluminum cans, and glass bottles.
The implementation of the iCARE project reflects USC’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. The university community is urged to actively participate in this initiative. By utilizing the recycling bins, members of USC can contribute to reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and promoting a cleaner, greener environment.
Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC emphasized the importance of collective action in making a positive impact. “Every small action counts. When we all do our part by properly sorting and disposing of recyclables, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Together, we can make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
The introduction of the iCARE project aligns with USC’s broader environmental goals, which include reducing the university’s carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices across all campus operations. The initiative also serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about the importance of recycling and sustainability among the university’s population.
Members of staff have expressed their support for the new initiative. Dr. Gersha Pierre, Director of Quality Assurance expressed her support this way: “ As the Director of Quality Assurance, I am delighted to endorse USC’s new recycling initiative aimed at promoting environmental stewardship across our campus. By implementing and maintaining recycling bins for plastic bottles, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our ecological footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability. This initiative not only aligns with our commitment to environmental responsibility but also embodies the principles of quality assurance through systematic process improvement and stakeholder engagement. I am even more excited by the fact that for Quality Week 2023, the first place student entry in the Brilliant Ideas competition, Ms Ann -Marie Duncan, focused on the use of recycling bins on the campus and its benefits. Congratulations to her and to the USC Administration. Great minds really do think alike”.
The University of the Southern Caribbean invites everyone on campus to embrace this new initiative and work together towards a more sustainable future. With active participation and continued efforts, USC hopes to lead by example in environmental stewardship and inspire other institutions to follow suit.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter