Olympiad 2024: A Triumph of Talent and Tenacity from USC’s Finest
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The Hasely Crawford Stadium pulsated with the spirit of competition and camaraderie as the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) hosted its annual Olympiad on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Olympiad 2024 was a showcase of athletic prowess, teamwork, and sheer determination with teams from the School of Business & Entrepreneurship, School of Theology & Religion, School of Social Sciences, School of Science, Technology & Allied Health, School of Education & Humanities, USC South, and USC Tobago.
Despite this exhilarating event coinciding with the Eid holiday, the stands were abuzz with the energy of students, faculty, staff, families, friends, and supporters, all gathered to celebrate the sporting prowess of USC’s finest.
The festivities commenced with the ceremonial March Past, a display of USCian spirit and pride. The March Past event saw dignitaries Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, Dr. Len Archer, Provost of USC, and Alderman Brian Lewis, representing His Worship Alderman Chinua Alleyne, Mayor of the City of Port of Spain, taking the eyes right salute as the teams paraded by. Alderman Brian Lewis, in his remarks, officially inaugurated the event.






Adding a dash of flair to the proceedings, El Chorro Combine’s “Addams Family,” reigning March Past Champions of the 2024 Maracas Valley Easter Sports, wowed the audience with their routine.


With 139 points, the School of Business & Entrepreneurship was crowned the March Past Winners, setting the tone for a day filled with thrilling competition, camaraderie, and celebration of athletic excellence.


Following the pomp and pageantry of the March Past, the track and field events kicked off, setting the athletes on a collision course with glory. From the adrenaline-pumping sprints to the strategic tug-of-war battles, every event showcased the participants’ speed, agility, and strength.
The competition was fierce, but it was the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health that emerged as the dominant force, clinching both the Tug of War and the coveted overall Olympiad 2024 Champions titles showcasing their unparalleled strength and teamwork.
The accolades continued as Njanu Bellamy from the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health blazed his way to victory, clinching the title of Fastest Man for the second consecutive year, while Helen Cuffie from the School of Education & Humanities showcased her speed and agility, earning the title of Fastest Woman.
Njanu Bellamy further solidified his status as a track and field powerhouse by clinching the Victor Ludorum title for track and field events, while Atiya Cummings from the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health retained the title of Victrix Ludorum.
In the realm of novelty events, Brandon Sanderson from the School of Social Sciences emerged as the Victor Ludorum, showcasing his prowess beyond the traditional track and field disciplines. Meanwhile, Kerdisha Simmons from the School of Business & Entrepreneurship dazzled spectators with her skill and finesse, earning the title of Victrix Ludorum.
As the sun set on Olympiad 2024, amidst cheers, applause, and a sense of accomplishment, one thing became abundantly clear – the true essence of the Olympiad lies not just in victory, but in the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence that unites us all.
ISW 2024: A Celebration of Unity, Diversity, and Triumph at USC
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In a whirlwind of colors, flavors, and rhythms, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) recently wrapped up its annual International Students Week (ISW) with a resounding celebration of diversity and unity.
From April 2-6, 2024, USC’s Main Campus in Maracas, St. Joseph, Trinidad, was transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange under the theme, “USCian Unleashed: Diverse Rhythms, One Beat.” ISW, a staple on USC’s activity calendar, is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity and appreciation.




With an ethnically diverse student and faculty population representing over 40 countries, USC prides itself on creating a campus environment of acceptance and celebration of cultural differences. ISW serves as the pinnacle of this ethos, providing a platform for USC’s cosmopolitan student body to showcase the rich tapestry of cultures that enrich the university community.
The heart of ISW 2024 beat at the Administrative Carpark, which was magically transformed into a bustling cultural village. Here, various territorial clubs proudly displayed their countries’ heritage through culinary delights, traditional costumes, captivating music, and fascinating artifact displays.
ISW 2024 Declared Open
The festivities kicked off on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, with the grand Opening Ceremony attended by a prestigious gathering of dignitaries and esteemed members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps. Highlighting the proceedings, USC’s President, Dr. Colwick Wilson, declared ISW 2024 open, marking the beginning of the week-long extravaganza.
The Opening Ceremony was graced by the presence of notable figures, including Doctor the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Education, Government of Trinidad and Tobago, and Honourable Esmond Forde, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, and Member of Parliament for Tunapuna. Their attendance underscored the significance of ISW 2024 as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.
In addition to local dignitaries, representatives from various diplomatic missions lent their support to the event. Minister Counselor Acacia Peralta, standing in for His Excellency Wellington Darío Bencosme Castanos from the Embassy of the Dominican Republic, joined Mr. Felix Wui, in charge of Consular Affairs at the Mission, Nigeria, His Excellency William Sidney Bush Howard, Charge D’ Affairs of the Embassy of Colombia, and Mr. Raju Sharma, Charge D’ Affairs, a.i. (ad interim) of the India High Commission, among others.
The diplomatic presence further emphasized the global significance of ISW 2024 as a platform for fostering international understanding and cooperation. Mr. Thomas Chanona, Consular, Belize Honorary Consul, and Dr. Elaine Monica Davis, The Bahamas Honorary Consul, added their support to the event, reflecting the diverse range of cultures represented at USC.
Also in attendance was Kervelle Durant-Julien, Assistant Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain, and Mr. Trudel Noriega, Councillor for Maracas/Santa Margarita, adding to the vibrant mix of guests.






USCian Unleashed: Diverse Rhythms, One Beat
The Opening Ceremony was followed by the Judging of Booths, where territorial clubs displayed their countries’ heritage through captivating exhibits of costumes, music, and artifacts. The energy was palpable as clubs competed for the titles of best booth, best cultural presentation, and best cultural cuisine.
In a remarkable turn of events, the Trinidad & Tobago Cultural Club emerged as the undisputed champion of ISW 2024, sweeping all three coveted titles. This victory was particularly significant as the club had not clinched any titles in the past decade. Through dedicated support from USC faculty, staff, and alumni, the Trinidad & Tobago Cultural Club showcased the best of the twin-island nation with flair and finesse.
Despite a rescheduling due to rain, the highlight of the week – the Cultural Parade – marched on with undiminished energy and excitement on Thursday, April 4, 2024. Students, faculty, and visitors reveled in the colorful procession, celebrating unity in diversity and embracing the global spirit of the USC community.






As the curtains closed on ISW 2024, the echoes of laughter, the aroma of exotic cuisines, and the rhythms of distant lands lingered in the air, serving as a testament to the power of unity in diversity. USC looks forward to continuing this tradition of celebration and cultural exchange in the years to come, strengthening bonds and forging lifelong connections among its global family.
View Full Album Here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720315917509
Dr. Amanda Thomas Receives Prestigious AERA Award: Pioneering Caribbean Excellence in Education Research
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In the realm of academia, where rigor and innovation intersect, few accolades carry the weight and prestige of the American Educational Research Association (AERA) awards. These accolades serve as beacons illuminating the path of scholarly excellence in education research, guiding future endeavors and honoring those who push the boundaries of knowledge. In the year 2024, amidst the vast sea of contenders, one name shone brightly, breaking barriers and setting a new standard of achievement at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC): Dr. Amanda Thomas.

Dr. Thomas, a Research Assistant Professor in the Office of Research and Innovation at USC, has long been a trailblazer in her field. Armed with a Ph.D. in Research Methods and Statistics, she navigates the intricate landscape of educational inquiry with precision and passion. Yet, it is not just her academic prowess that sets her apart—it is her unwavering commitment to excellence and her relentless pursuit of knowledge that truly distinguish her.
The AERA, with its discerning eye for scholarly excellence, recognized Dr. Thomas’s exceptional contribution alongside her co-author, Dr. Lolita A. Tabron from the University of Denver. Their collaborative paper, “Deeper than Wordplay: A Systematic Review of Critical Quantitative Approaches in Education Research (2007–2021),” published in the esteemed Review of Educational Research, Volume 93, Issue 5, February 2023, captured the attention of the academic community with its depth and insight.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the historical context within which it unfolds. Established in 1978, AERA’s Review of Research Award has been a beacon of recognition for outstanding review articles in education research. However, despite its longstanding presence, Dr. Thomas’s recognition marks a pivotal moment of inclusion and celebration of diversity within AERA’s awardees.
As only the fourth Black woman to receive the Review of Research Award, she stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of excellence that transcends boundaries of race and gender. Furthermore, her distinction as the first person of Caribbean heritage from a Caribbean-based higher education institution to receive this award speaks volumes about the depth of talent and intellect present within the region.
As the motto of the University of the Southern Caribbean declares, Dr. Thomas’s achievements go “Beyond Excellence.” They embody the spirit of innovation, perseverance, and dedication that define her as a scholar and as a beacon of inspiration for all who aspire to reach greater heights in the pursuit of knowledge. In honoring Dr. Amanda Thomas, the AERA honors not just an individual, but a legacy of excellence, diversity, and the relentless pursuit of truth in education research.
View Release: AERA Announces 2024 Award Winners in Education Research
- Published in Faculty, News, Research and Innovation
Honors Convocation 2024: A Celebration of Academic Excellence and Resilience
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) Main Campus reverberated with pride and accomplishment as it hosted its Honors Convocation on Monday, March 25, 2024, at the USC Auditorium. The event, held under the theme “Resilience Rising: Celebrating Academic Excellence,” provided a platform to recognize the remarkable academic achievements of USC’s students.



The highlight of the Honors Convocation was the keynote address delivered by Professor Prakash Persad, PhD, President of the University of Trinidad and Tobago(UTT). Professor Persad’s insightful speech emphasized the importance of resilience and self-belief in overcoming challenges and achieving success. He underscored the significance of nurturing personal competencies and emotional intelligence alongside academic excellence, urging students to strive for multidimensional growth in their professional and personal lives.


Reflecting on the theme of resilience, Professor Persad remarked, “Resilience is demonstrative of the strength of the human spirit, allowing us to emerge stronger and victorious from adverse circumstances.” He emphasized the role of support systems, including family, mentors, and colleagues, in bolstering individual resilience and fostering a spirit of cooperation. Addressing the honored awardees, Professor Persad extended his congratulations and gratitude, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance.
The Convocation honored a total of 488 students for their outstanding academic achievements during the academic year 2022-2023. Among them, 445 students were recognized on the Dean’s List, while 43 students received distinction on the Provost’s List. These honorees represented USC’s diverse campuses and sites across the Caribbean region.



To qualify for the Dean’s List or Provost’s List, students demonstrated exceptional scholastic achievement, maintaining high-grade point averages and fulfilling rigorous academic requirements. The Provost’s List, in particular, highlighted students who attained a cumulative GPA of 3.74 – 3.99 and demonstrated exemplary academic performance over consecutive semesters.
The Dean’s List, on the other hand, celebrated students who maintained a minimum GPA of 3.50 for one semester, showcasing their commitment to academic excellence.
Honors Convocation 2024 served as a testament to USC’s unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of resilience, academic excellence, and personal growth. Looking ahead, the University of the Southern Caribbean remains steadfast in its mission to empower future leaders and scholars, equipping them with the skills and values necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
The Honors Convocation 2024 will be remembered as a celebration of resilience, academic excellence, and the collective achievements of the USC community, setting the stage for continued success and innovation in the years to come.
Innovative Collaboration: USC Welcomes MIC Institute of Technology Trainees for Experiential Learning
By Kadan Esson, Corporate Communications Assistant & Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In a groundbreaking move at the forefront of experiential education, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has embarked on a transformative partnership with the MIC Institute of Technology. This dynamic collaboration signals a new era in academic-industry synergy, promising to revolutionize the landscape of vocational training and career readiness.
The collaboration between the MIC Institute of Technology and USC marks a significant milestone in the realm of experiential learning. Through the Multi-Sector Skills Training (MuST) Programme, fourteen masonry trainees have been welcomed to USC’s Main Campus for a five-month training period. Spearheaded by the MIC Institute of Technology, the MuST Programme aims to cultivate a pool of proficient, certified workers in key sectors of the economy.
Under the guidance of Mr. Lincoln Laltoo, Coordinator of the Department of Facilities Management at USC, these trainees are gaining hands-on experience in a real-world environment. Working alongside USC’s experienced staff, they are seamlessly integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, enhancing their skill set and operational capacity.


The MuST Programme’s emphasis on inclusivity aligns closely with USC’s commitment to student achievement and preparedness for future careers. By offering internship opportunities within its departments, USC is providing trainees with invaluable experiences and mentorship, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed to succeed.
Speaking about their experiences at USC, the masonry trainees shared insights into their journey. Nathan Hinds expressed satisfaction in applying his interests in tiling, carpentry, and electrical work to the ongoing renovation of the University’s Barn, remarking, “It feels rewarding to contribute to campus improvements for future enjoyment.” Isaiah Rudder echoed this sentiment, finding fulfillment in utilizing his expertise in electrical, plumbing, welding, and tiling to contribute to the university community.
Through this partnership, trainees are not only gaining expertise in masonry but also acquiring a comprehensive skill set encompassing various aspects of general construction. From foam work, concrete mixing and pouring, plastering, tiling, ceiling work, joinery, electrical work, and plumbing, they are immersed in a diverse range of tasks, ensuring they graduate with practical skills highly sought after in the industry.



Moreover, the collaboration extends beyond vocational training, encompassing holistic support for the trainees’ educational and personal advancement. USC provides access to resources such as the campus gym and student shuttle service, enhancing their overall well-being and efficiency.
As the partnership between MIC Institute of Technology and USC continues to evolve, the potential for innovation and impact is limitless. Together, they are shaping the future of education, empowering students to become lifelong learners, innovators, and leaders in their respective fields.
In conclusion, the collaboration between MIC Institute of Technology and USC exemplifies a transformative model of collaboration, innovation, and experiential learning. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, they are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for trainees and the wider community alike.
- Published in News, Office of the President