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.
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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.
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Debate Results
The School of Theology and Religion emerged as the winning team.
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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.
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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.
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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
Praise Break is Back!
Authored By: Golden Eagle
After a two year hiatus due to Covid-19, Praise Break returned with a cast of popular local Gospel Ministers and Guyana’s International Minister, Samuel Medas. The 2022 edition of this Praise and Worship Eexperience in its 5th edition proved to be its best to date.
Patrons were able to praise and worship in the seated air conditioned comfort within the new Auditorium at the University of the Southern (USC). A safe and family friendly environment was evident with ample secured parking available throughout the University’s compound.
Praise Break was conceptualized to give USC students a “break” from studying and the stress of academia before going into end of semester exams with student artistes sharing the stage with more accomplished ministers. The patrons of the show now extend beyond the University’s students and also include international artistes as stated above.
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The show kicked off at 6.30pm with local talents, J-Rich, Renee Lawrence, Ron Christopher, Bjorn Pierre, Carla Watkins, St. Hilarie Brothers and Pastor Clive Dottin closing the first half with a plea to March against crime and other issues plaguing society.
The second half of the show kicked off with all artists backed by live bands with performances by Marc Isaacs joined by the host Jahzy the Voice, Jaron Nurse, Positive and Samuel Medas with a surprise appearance from Blessed Messenger. The night was truly a blessing to all present and left many stating it was “the best Praise break ever”.
Team United Hands Visits USC
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Team United Hands/FreeD.O.M Clinic team has been getting us into the game! From October 14-21, 2022, the University of the Southern Caribbean hosted Dr. Don Bovell, Mrs. Ann Burnett and Ms. Grace Daley as they prepared for an upcoming mission trip to Trinidad and Tobago in 2023.
The team’s schedule kept a pace that was only outdone by their energy. During this time, in addition to making key connections through several courtesy visits, the team has been touring primary and secondary schools to affirm the gospel message with their unique blend of fun, faith and fitness.
Learn more about United Hands/FreeD.O.M Clinic at: united-hands.org and freedomclinicusa.org
- Published in News
Portraits of Excellence: USC Celebrates Transformative Student Experience
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) proudly revived its celebrated tradition, “Portraits of Excellence,” after a decade-long hiatus. This event, which is deeply rooted in the university’s mission of transforming ordinary individuals into extraordinary servants of God to humanity, brings together students from diverse territories to showcase their skills and talents while fostering personal and professional growth.
Launched in 2006, Portraits of Excellence has been an integral part of the USC student life experience. It’s a seven-month journey that embodies the holistic mission of the university, combining intellectual, social, physical, and spiritual aspects of learning.
The theme for Portraits of Excellence 2023 was “Rethinking Education: Reframing Realities, Reshaping Opportunities,” emphasizing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education. The event encourages participants to explore a comprehensive approach to education, fostering a well-rounded development of skills and knowledge.
Eight delegates represented their respective countries, including Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Trinidad & Tobago, as they competed in several categories, including Research Presentation, Community Outreach Project, Talent, and Cultural Wear.
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Portraits of Excellence 2023 featured a series of smaller events assessed and recorded throughout the seven-month journey, leading to the grand finale Gala Event. During the Gala, scores from the delegates’ pre-Gala presentations, as well as the presentations during the Gala, were tabulated to determine the recipients of Scholarship Awards.
The winners of Portraits of Excellence 2023 were:
- Mr. USC: Jad Isidore
- Ms. USC: Abigail Collins
- First Runners Up: Mr. Kahlan Roach and Ms. Anya Nero
- Best Talent Female: Abigail Collins
- Best Talent Male: Kahlan Roach
- Best Cultural Wear Male: Jounathan Peters
- Best Cultural Wear Female: Monique Lively
- People’s Choice, Congeniality and Research Project: Kahlan Roach
- Best Community Project: Anya Nero
The event was held under the patronage of Mrs. Sharon Clark-Rowley, attorney and wife of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. the Honorable Keith Rowley, adding prestige and significance to this year’s Portraits of Excellence.
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Portraits of Excellence 2023 Sponsors: A Crucial Pillar of Support
USC extends its heartfelt gratitude to the generous sponsors who made Portraits of Excellence 2023 a resounding success. These sponsors played a crucial role in supporting the event’s mission of fostering excellence, personal growth, and holistic development among the USC student community. Their contributions allowed the university to provide a platform for students to showcase their skills and talents while promoting a comprehensive approach to education.
The listed sponsors not only provided financial support but also demonstrated their commitment to promoting excellence in education and personal development. Their contributions allowed USC to reintroduce Portraits of Excellence and ensure that the event lived up to its legacy.
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Portraits of Excellence 2023 Sponsors:
- Eastern Group of Companies
- Orville & Phyllis Woolford
- Forward Industries Ltd
- Point Lisas Nitrogen Limited
- ACS Group
- Bakers Flags and Emblems
- Ansa Mobility
- Matvern Limited
- IADPA
- Veldon A Limited
- Glenroy and Associates
- USC Alumni Association – Trinidad Chapter
- M&M Insurance Limited
- Nestle Caribbean
- Executive Office Supplies
- ZM Group of Companies
- Eve Anderson Recruitment
- Laparkan
With the successful revival of Portraits of Excellence 2023, preparations are already underway for Portraits of Excellence 2024. This tradition, deeply embedded in the fabric of the University of the Southern Caribbean, continues to be a platform for students to shine and showcase their excellence while promoting holistic growth and personal development.
- Published in News
USCian Excellence Tops the 2022 Conference of the Economy Debate (COTE)
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
UWI’s annual Conference of the Economic Debate (COTE) addresses important economic concerns confronting Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean in light of the current global context.
The 2022 COTE debate saw the University of the Southern Caribbean represented by Mr. Gershom Byng, Ms. Nyla Nyack and Ms. Chelsea Austin, students of USC’s School of Business & Entrepreneurship (SOBE).
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In a stunning display of USCian excellence, the team defeated UWI Roytec in the preliminary round and UWI St. Augustine in the finals to claim the title of the Conference of Economy Debate winners.
Team leader Mr. Byng expressed his excitement about this well deserved reward as a final year student. He also expresses his heartfelt gratitude to the School of Business and Entrepreneurship faculty Dr. Stephen Pilgrim, Mr. Winchester and Ms. Esther Cedeno.
- Published in News, School of Business
Celebrating Earth Day & World Environment Day 2022 at USC
Author: Dave V. Cassie, EdD, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
The University of the Southern Caribbean held a simple tree planting activity to commemorate Earth Day & World Environment Day 2022 under the themes “Invest in Our Plant” and “Only One Earth” respectively. The tree planting activity took place on July 14, 2022 on a small mound overlooking the recreation field between the Maracas SDA Primary School and the La Realista Building on the main campus, Maracas, St. Joseph. Seedlings were donated by WASA’s Adopt the River Program which included fruit trees as well as wood trees. In the photo, below a small party of officials were gathered to plant a Five Finger tree as a ceremonial gesture to highlight the events as well as mark the further collaboration of WASA’s Adopt the River Program and School of Sciences, Technology & Allied Health on a river project in the coming academic year.
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WASA’s Adopt the River Program has been associated with the School of Sciences, Technology & Allied Health since 2020 just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and participated in the Science Week 2020 Symposium: Water & Climate Change. Due to the many restrictions related to the pandemic there has been limited engagement over the last two years but it is hoped that in the new academic year 2022_2023 that a river project will be initiated involving the community stakeholders, students and faculty and staff of USC. Certainly this is an investment for the future of the Maracas Valley, the country and the planet as a whole.
- Published in News
Caribbean Union Health and Well-being Study
Author: Caribbean Union Health and Well-being Study (CHWBS)
The Caribbean Union Family Life, Health, and Women, Children and Adolescents Ministries departments, the University of the Southern Caribbean, Loma Linda University, Johns Hopkins University and Oakwood University have teamed up to conduct the Caribbean Union Health and Well-being Study (CHWBS). This is a ground-breaking study of the adult Seventh-day Adventist population in the Caribbean Union focusing majorly on mental health, family, and women issues.
A section of the study focuses specifically on Pastors. The findings from the study will be used to provide data driven ministry initiatives to improve the health and well-being of our members in the Caribbean Union and provide invaluable information on the experiences related to the Novel Corona Virus (COVID-19). The study is fully endorsed and supported by the Caribbean Union Conference Executive Committee.
- Published in News
Oakwood University Donates Media Equipment to USC
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The longstanding relationship President Colwick Wilson holds with Oakwood University (OU) has proved invaluable to USC’s department of Integrated Marketing & Communications (IMC).
During USC’s graduation activities for the Class of 2022, the IMC team greatly benefited from the assistance, expertise and training provided by Dr. Dwyane Cheddar. Dr. Dwyane Cheddar is the Director of the Oakwood University Broadcasting Network (OUBN), and an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at Oakwood University.
Coming out of this visit Dr. Cheddar has committed to work with USC to develop a certificate programme in media production to be offered in 2023.
As USC’s relationship with OU continues to grow, the IMC team has further benefited through the donation of media production equipment. Oakwood University has gifted computer and camera equipment valued at over USD$8,500. This invaluable contribution includes:
- 1 Mac Pro Computer
- 1 Canon XA55 Video Camera
Oakwood has changed out their video cameras at their campus and has confirmed a further contribution to IMC of additional seven video cameras they once used. These cameras are great condition and are currently being services in the US, after which they will be shipped to USC.
- Published in News
USC’s President’s XI (Over 50) tops the Scoreboard!
Contributed By: Le-Roy Pierre, Director, Sport & Physical Education Department (SPED)
Cricket, lovely cricket! It was a great match.
Captain Coppin won the toss and put Maracas Cricketing Legends in to bat. They had a poor start to their innings as the President’s XI bowlers maintained a steady line and length with wickets falling at regular intervals. At the end of the allotted seven overs, the Legends were able to muster a competitive total of 56 runs for the loss of 4 wickets giving the President’s XI 57 to win.
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In comes the President’s XI and in just the second over lost their first wicket. However, sensible barring from Robert Solomon who made 28 not out steady the batting. As the President’s XI got closer to the score of wickets began to fall including that of the President who was run out forcing a run.
At the end of the 7 overs scores were tied at 56 forcing a super over. The President’s XI had the first go at the crease with captain Coppin and Victor Timothy taking the crease. To the dismay of Maracas Legends, Captain Coppin sent the first two deliveries for mighty sixes followed up by a single. In the 4th ball Timothy was out for a duck. Carl Solomon came in and made a single leaving the Legends a competitive score of 15 runs to win.
The over was entrusted to the elder of the Solomon’s brothers – Carl. He did not disappoint. He restricted the scoring effort of the legends to two runs for the loss two wickets. The Legends conceded defeat. President’s XI over 50 cricket team taking home the challenge trophy with the man of the match trophy going to Carl Solomon.
Both trophies were donated by Dr. Colwick M. Wilson.
- Published in News