By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) celebrates the achievements of Dr. Patriann Smith, a distinguished alumna of Caribbean Union College (now USC). Dr. Smith, a Professor of Literacy Studies at the University of South Florida, has been awarded an Honorable Mention for her book, Black Immigrant Literacies: Intersections of Race, Language, and Culture in the Classroom, by the Modern Language Association MLA) as part of the prestigious Mina P. Shaughnessy Prize. This recognition underscores her significant contributions to understanding the nuanced dynamics of Black immigrant students’ literacy experiences.

Dr. Smith’s scholarship meticulously explores the complex racial, cultural, and academic landscapes navigated by Black immigrant and transnational students. By examining the intersections of race, language, and culture, she sheds light on how these factors influence learning and literacy in both public and academic spaces. Her insights reframe the narrative around Black immigrant students’ educational journeys and challenge static perceptions of literacy worldwide.

Earlier this year, Dr. Smith was a keynote presenter at USC’s inaugural Research Conference held on March 7-8, 2024, under the theme, “Scientific Contribution of Spirituality/Religion on Health & Well-Being.” Her presentation, titled “Black Immigrant Literacies: Leveraging a Language of Forgiveness for Flourishing,” captivated attendees with its exploration of how forgiveness can empower and transform Black immigrant students’ literacy practices and overall well-being. Dr. Smith has since been elected as Vice President of the Literacy Research Association (LRA) and was recently invited to serve as a Global Pathways Panelist for the “White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.” She is the author of the newly released book titled “Literacies of Migration: Translanguaging Imaginaries of Innocence” (2024) published by Cambridge University Press.

The USC community takes pride in Dr. Smith’s achievements, which serve as a testament to the caliber of excellence nurtured at the institution. As Dr. Smith prepares to receive this accolade during the MLA’s annual convention in January 2025, we extend heartfelt congratulations and celebrate her dedication to advancing education and creating transformative impacts within the global academic community.

By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

In the realm of higher education, few stories are as deeply rooted in faith and purpose as that of Dr. Christon Arthur, the recently appointed president of La Sierra University. As an alumnus of the Caribbean Union College (now the University of the Southern Caribbean), Dr. Arthur’s remarkable journey reflects the power of faith, determination, and an unwavering commitment to education. This month, we honor his 35-year career, celebrating the pivotal moments that shaped his path, his inspiring leadership, and his profound influence as an educator.

A Humble Beginning: Faith at the Center

Born and raised in Grenada, Dr. Arthur’s story begins with a humble upbringing marked by a deep spiritual foundation. His mother, a devout Catholic, ensured that he and his siblings were consistently involved in the practices of the church. “Attending mass on Sundays wasn’t a choice; it was a given,” Dr. Arthur recalls with a nostalgic smile. The Catholic traditions of his youth shaped a life centered around faith. However, as he grew older, his inquisitive mind led him to question and explore new spiritual paths.

By the time he finished high school, Dr. Arthur had drifted from Catholicism. His journey took a new direction when he began attending Seventh-day Adventist services, influenced by friends whose faith inspired him. Eventually, these friendships blossomed into a deeper religious conviction, and he made the life-changing decision to be baptized. His mother’s response to his conversion, however, left a lasting impact. “She said, ‘If this is what you want to do, make sure it’s a decision for life,’” Dr. Arthur shares. “That advice has stayed with me through every challenge.”

The Call to Caribbean Union College
Dr. Arthur’s journey to Caribbean Union College (CUC) was a series of divinely orchestrated events. College was not part of his plan after high school. Satisfied with his high school diploma, he believed his educational journey had come to an end. Yet, a moment in church changed everything. His local pastor approached him with a firm suggestion: he needed to pursue higher education. Dr. Arthur resisted initially, but his pastor’s persistence paid off. “He went so far as to get the application, fill out the recommendations, and send it in for me,” he recalls with amazement.

In January of 1986, Dr. Arthur landed in Trinidad to begin his studies at CUC, an experience that would change the trajectory of his life. His initial resistance quickly turned into appreciation as he embraced the vibrant campus life. He recalls the incredible sense of community he found at CUC. “The faculty cared about us as students just as much as they cared about the subjects they were teaching,” he reflects. “There was a deep bond, a sense of belonging, and a mutual drive to help one another succeed.”

Over the next four years, Dr. Arthur pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Theology, completing his degree in 1989. The friendships, spiritual growth, and mentorship he received during this time shaped his future, imbuing him with a passion for both education and ministry. “It was at CUC that I first experienced the idea of education as ministry,” he shares. “The faculty weren’t just teachers – they were mentors, pastors, and community builders.”

A Call to Educate: The Start of a Teaching Career
Dr. Arthur’s career in education began as unexpectedly as his journey to college. Shortly after graduating, while attending a church service in Grenada, the principal of a local secondary school approached him with an offer to teach. Once again, Dr. Arthur found himself being “tapped on the shoulder” by opportunity. He accepted the position and began teaching high school in September 1989. It was the beginning of a long and fruitful career in education, one that would take him across countries and institutions, all while nurturing young minds.

Teaching quickly became a passion, but Dr. Arthur’s academic journey was far from over. One day, while in the middle of teaching a class, he received a phone call from an official at the Organization of American States (OAS). “They told me they had been watching my work and wanted to offer me a scholarship to pursue a master’s degree,” he recalls, still amazed at the serendipity of the moment. Over the next four years, he spent his summers in Jamaica, working toward a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction through an Andrews University program.

But the blessings didn’t stop there. Due to the favorable exchange rate in Jamaica, he was able to stretch the scholarship funds further than expected, leaving enough money to pursue a doctoral degree. “I couldn’t believe it,” he says. “Had I studied elsewhere, the money would have run out, but God made sure there was enough for both my master’s and doctoral degrees.”

Tennessee State University: Building a Foundation for Leadership
With his advanced degrees in hand, Dr. Arthur accepted a position at Tennessee State University (TSU), a historically Black institution in the United States. It was here that his career in higher education truly took flight.

At TSU, Dr. Arthur taught educational administration, eventually earning tenure and being promoted to Associate Professor. He was later appointed as associate dean of the College of Education. “My time at TSU was transformative,” he recalls. “It gave me a deep understanding of the importance of providing opportunities for those who have been historically marginalized.”

During his nine years at TSU, Dr. Arthur’s passion for empowering underserved communities was solidified. He began to see education not just as a profession, but as a ministry—a way to uplift those who had been left out or overlooked. His work at TSU laid the foundation for his philosophy of leadership, which he would carry with him throughout the rest of his career: “Make room at the table for others.”

Andrews University: A Journey of Faith and Academic Excellence
In 2010, Dr. Arthur accepted an invitation to join Andrews University, a pivotal moment in his career. Over the next 14 years, he served in various leadership roles, including Associate Provost and Provost, gaining experience and insight into the complexities of higher education administration. He credits these roles with shaping his approach to leadership, always focusing on service, humility, and a deep commitment to the university’s mission.

At Andrews, Dr. Arthur continued to be guided by his faith, frequently turning to biblical wisdom to navigate the challenges of leadership. “Every job I’ve had has been the result of someone tapping me on the shoulder and saying, ‘I need your help,’” he reflects. “I believe that when you work with excellence and faithfulness, God opens doors for you – even doors you didn’t know existed.”

La Sierra University: A New Chapter, A Historic First
In July 2024, Dr. Arthur became the sixth president of La Sierra University in California, making history as the first Black president of the institution in its nearly 102-year history. Reflecting on his appointment, he sees this new role as the culmination of his lifelong mission to serve others. “La Sierra is a place where we can make room for everyone at the table,” he says. “I want to ensure that every student, every faculty member, and every staff member feels seen, valued, and empowered.”

Dr. Arthur’s vision for La Sierra is rooted in the same principles that have guided him throughout his career: faith, service, and a commitment to making room for others. “God has brought me this far, and I know He will continue to guide me,” he says with humility. “I don’t fit the script for a university president, but that’s the beauty of God’s plan. He can work with whatever you have, as long as you make yourself available.”

Lessons for the Next Generation: A Message of Hope and Excellence
As Dr. Arthur looks back on his 35 years as an educator, his message to students and young professionals is both simple and profound: “Do your work with excellence and faithfulness. You never know who’s watching, and your work will open doors that you didn’t even know existed.”

He frequently draws inspiration from the story of Isaiah’s call in the Bible, where God does not call by name, but simply asks, “Who will go?” Dr. Arthur encourages everyone to have the same spirit of availability. “God is not looking for perfection; He’s looking for those who are willing to be used,” he says. “When you make yourself available, He will do the rest.”

A Legacy of Faith and Leadership
Dr. Christon Arthur’s journey from a small island in the Caribbean to the presidency of La Sierra University is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and divine guidance. His life and career stand as a reminder that no matter where you start, with God’s help, anything is possible. As he steps into this new chapter of leadership, he continues to inspire future generations to dream big, work hard, and trust in the power of God to take them farther than they ever imagined.

In the words of Dr. Arthur, “What you have is good enough for God to work with. Don’t let your background limit you. God can use you, and when you make yourself available, He will surprise you with how far you can go.”

By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

When Ms. Abby Taylor graduated from the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in History, she could not have foreseen her path leading to the historic appointment as the Presiding Officer of the Assembly Legislature in the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). At just 36 years old, she made history as the youngest individual to hold this esteemed position. Ms. Taylor’s inspiring story is a testament to resilience, faith, and a commitment to serving her community.

A Leap of Faith

Ms. Taylor’s path to USC began with a bold decision. She was employed in Tobago when she chose to resign, using her gratuity to fund her education. “I took a leap of faith,” she recalls. “I decided that in order to do this as quickly as possible, I needed to be at USC’s main campus in Trinidad.” She was fortunate to receive 100% tuition coverage through GATE, a program she describes as “very gracious.”

Initially interested in law, Ms. Taylor pivoted to history after excelling in Tort Law and discovering her love for the subject. Her decision to attend USC was influenced by her brothers, alumni of the institution and members of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) faith. Although she does not practice the Adventist faith, she appreciated the transformative impact it had on her siblings. “I saw how it changed their mindsets. I appreciate everything the SDA religion stands for,” she shares.

USC: A Place of Growth and Community
Ms. Taylor’s USC experience was defined by independence, camaraderie, and cultural diversity. Living just five minutes from campus allowed her to maintain autonomy, particularly as a mother to her then four-year-old daughter. “It gave me a sense of independence,” she says, recalling the countless hours spent in the library before walking home late at night.

Her time at USC also forged lifelong friendships. “My best friends and I all cemented our bond on campus,” she recalls fondly. The ripple effect of her influence is evident; one friend, inspired by Ms. Taylor’s passion, enrolled in a psychology program at USC. Today, that friend’s daughter is set to graduate from USC with a degree in biology, a testament to the enduring impact of their bond.

Diversity at USC also left a lasting impression. “USC prides itself on being culturally diverse,” Ms. Taylor observes. The annual International Students Week, showcasing the traditions and cuisines of various cultures, remains one of her fondest memories. “It’s almost like edutainment. We learn through different interactions and communications.”

Taylor fondly describes USC as “home away from home,” a nurturing environment where the warmth of staff, students, and faculty fostered a deep sense of belonging. “There’s something uniquely comforting about USC. Even when homesickness struck my friend, the community cocooned her with love.”

Challenges that Shaped Resilience
Presenting a final research paper was a daunting hurdle for Taylor, who admits to being reserved. To navigate this, she delved into a unique topic: women in calypso, showcasing the profound influence of her history professors. Despite these challenges, Ms. Taylor found support and inspiration from faculty members like Dr. Fiona Rajkumar, Dr. Loverne Jacobs-Browne, Dr. Terencia Joseph, and Mr. Hayden McKenna. Her professors’ wisdom, particularly Dr. Irwin Wilson’s call to “Think! Make it a habit,” continues to influence her professional life.

A Career in Public Service
Taylor’s path to public service was not premeditated but stemmed from a deep desire to bring change. A friend encouraged her to enter the political arena, and she took another leap of faith. After years of service in various public roles, she entered politics to uplift her Mary’s Hill community, driven by their untapped potential. Despite her initial reservations and social anxiety, Taylor embraced the challenge, encouraged by friends and family. “I hated seeing so much potential go to waste. That was the catalyst for entering politics,” she shares.

Ms. Taylor’s career began in public service with the Division of Settlements, where she served as a Client Relations Officer for a decade. She later worked as a Public Procurement Officer in the Division of Sport and as Procurement Manager at the Tobago Festivals Commission Limited. Each role deepened her understanding of governance and community impact.

Her current role as Presiding Officer of the Assembly Legislature in the THA marks a historic milestone. Appointed in December 2021 at just 36 years old, Ms. Taylor is the youngest person to hold this position. In her capacity as Presiding Officer, she has introduced initiatives like “Primary Plenary,” a groundbreaking program that engages primary school students in legislative practices and debates. “The primary schoolers got it right,” she says proudly. “We were able to create a platform for them to have a voice.” The program has garnered recognition from both the national parliament and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Defining Moments and Lasting Impact
Ms. Taylor’s greatest accomplishment, however, transcends policy. She recounts helping a mother of three from Castara secure a new home through a partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank. “To this day, I call that lady my mother because she prays for me,” she shares. This act of service, deeply personal and transformative, exemplifies her commitment to uplifting others.

Her professional experiences have also broadened her worldview. Representing the THA at the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Australia underscored the importance of dreaming big. “The world is bigger than Trinidad and Tobago,” she affirms, echoing the wisdom of her USC lecturer, Mr. McKenna.

Words of Wisdom
For new students, Ms. Taylor emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness and faith. “Be open-minded and allow God to lead,” she advises. She credits USC for teaching her to rely on God and for fostering bonds with teachers who became lifelong mentors.

To outgoing students, she offers this reassurance: “Whatever you have learned at USC, put it into practice. Your gift will always make way for you.”

Ms. Taylor’s life and career embody this philosophy. From her leap of faith to attend USC to her groundbreaking role in governance, she continues to inspire those around her. Her story is a powerful reminder that with faith, perseverance, and a willingness to serve, no dream is too big.

Ms. Abby Taylor’s journey reflects the essence of the USC experience—a place where faith meets education, and dreams are nurtured into reality. As she leads with humility and grace, she exemplifies the university’s mission to inspire ethical leaders who will serve the world with distinction.

By Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

USC alum, Laurence Jerome “LJ” Modeste, has published his debut book, “A Cup That Overflows: Unlocking Your Potential, Embracing Your Purpose.” This captivating release is a life-changing companion for readers ready to uncover their God-given purpose and take actionable steps towards a fulfilling life. More than just a self-help book, “A Cup That Overflows” is a personal guide grounded in biblical wisdom, particularly the 23rd Psalm, offering a roadmap for personal growth and spiritual fulfillment.

A Journey Rooted in Faith and Purpose
Through practical teachings, Modeste offers guidance to individuals at any stage of their personal development. “A Cup That Overflows” poses thought-provoking questions, such as:

• Do you feel called to something greater but uncertain of the path ahead?
• Are you ready to uncover your God-given purpose and take intentional steps toward a life of fulfillment?

LJ Modeste answers these questions with deep insights, drawing from his personal experiences and spiritual reflections. His writings offer wisdom and practical teachings for those seeking clarity in a world full of distractions. Tackling life’s common challenges with profound simplicity, Modeste emphasizes that unlocking your potential starts with an awareness of your God-given purpose, acknowledging the inherent tools you have to fulfill it, and charting a practical path of action towards developing your character.

Guiding You Through Awareness to Action
At the heart of “A Cup That Overflows” is a five-part framework—Awareness, Acknowledgement, Acceptance, Action, and Affirmation—designed to guide readers through their personal and spiritual growth. Each section offers practical tools for uncovering and embracing one’s purpose.

• Awareness: Discover your God-given purpose and recognize the unique path set before you.
• Acknowledgement: Identify the tools and talents you possess to fulfill your purpose.
• Acceptance: Embrace the life God has called you to live, despite the uncertainties.
• Action: Take intentional steps toward personal development and character growth.
• Affirmation: Encourage yourself along the way, developing a mindset that not only strives for righteousness but also for a life lived well.

Incorporating this framework, Modeste empowers readers to understand their divine calling and how they are uniquely equipped to fulfill it.

A Purpose-Driven Companion for Personal and Spiritual Growth
Unlike many personal growth books that focus solely on success, “A Cup That Overflows” offers a holistic approach to growth that is deeply intertwined with faith. Modeste shares his own life experiences, weaving together the themes of faith, purpose, and personal development. His thoughtful guidance fosters a mindset of integrity, discipline, and spiritual awareness.

Through his thoughtful prose, LJ Modeste helps readers affirm their unique journey and find encouragement along the way. He urges readers to acknowledge their inherent fitness to fulfill their calling and equips them with the mindset, habits, and emotional resilience needed for the journey.

The message of “A Cup That Overflows” is clear: everyone has a purpose, and fulfilling that purpose requires self-awareness, dedication, and faith. For LJ Modeste, this journey is not just about living a good life, but living a life of impact and fulfillment, guided by wisdom and a deep connection with God.

In his own words, “Unlocking your potential and living with purpose is not just about achieving success, but about walking in alignment with God’s will and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.”

With this book, LJ Modeste extends a hand to those on the path of self-discovery, inviting them to step confidently into their God-given purpose. 

Get Your Copy
“A Cup That Overflows: Unlocking Your Potential, Embracing Your Purpose” is available now in paperback, hardcover and Kindle formats. Join LJ Modeste on this powerful journey of transformation and discover how you, too, can live a life overflowing with purpose.

For more information and to purchase the book, visit ljmodeste.com.

By Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

When Laurence Jerome “LJ” Modeste reflects on his journey from the halls of Caribbean Union College (CUC) to his role as Deputy National Chief Digital Officer in the Ministry of Digital Transformation for Trinidad and Tobago, he sees more than just career milestones.

For LJ, it’s always been about people—helping them discover their purpose and nurturing a sense of community, a principle that has guided him through nearly three decades in leadership roles across ICT, Telecommunications, Energy, and Government sectors.

LJ’s unique blend of pragmatism and innovation has seen him at the forefront of Trinidad and Tobago’s digital evolution. As a proud Trinidadian, he’s deeply committed to the nation’s advancement, and his expertise in business management and information systems has been pivotal in building a digital society.

Yet, as LJ himself puts it, “My greatest passion lies in helping others find and walk in their purpose.” Whether it’s leading digital transformation or mentoring the next generation, his approach is grounded in people-first leadership.

The CUC Years: Purpose and Community
LJ’s journey to CUC seemed almost preordained. With both parents and siblings attending the institution, it felt like a second home long before he enrolled. His father, who served as Dean of Men and Women, left a lasting legacy at the university. “I was always on campus, attending events and connecting with the community,” LJ recalls. This early exposure and the institution’s emphasis on Adventist education solidified LJ’s decision to attend.

For LJ, attending CUC was more than just acquiring a degree; “I’ve always been an advocate for Adventist education, especially at the tertiary level,” he shares. For LJ, his time at CUC was also about discovering purpose—understanding that his calling was a divine one. “We don’t decide our purpose; God does,” he says. “Our responsibility is to discover it and bring it to fruition.”

LJ’s memories of CUC are filled with a deep sense of belonging and community. “It felt like an extended family,” he recalls. “The wise counsel, the guidance, the nurturing, and the camaraderie… it created lifelong friendships and instilled in me a commitment to service.” This foundation of community and faith followed him through his subsequent academic pursuits at Atlantic Union College and Andrews University, shaping not just his career, but his approach to life.

From CUC to the Digital Frontier
With dual master’s degrees in Business Management and Information Systems, LJ’s career spans almost three decades, cutting across ICT, telecommunications, energy, and government sectors. He currently serves as the Deputy National Chief Digital Officer at the Ministry of Digital Transformation of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. In this role, LJ has been pivotal in architecting and guiding the nation’s digital transformation, including building out a digital government and economy while sharpening the skillset of its citizenry for a digital society.

His experiences at CUC were instrumental in his career shift from ICT-centric roles to business development. “The transition from technology to business development was a pivotal moment for me,” LJ explains. He attributes his adaptability and success to the holistic education CUC provided, where practical hands-on learning went hand in hand with a spiritual foundation.

A Leader, Mentor, and Innovator
Describing himself as a pragmatist yet an innovator, LJ’s leadership style is people-first, blending analytical thinking with creative solutions. He’s been recognized for his leadership in various multinationals and has received numerous awards for business development. However, what stands out most to him is his passion for mentoring, especially youth. “Helping others find and walk in their purpose is what gives me the most fulfillment,” LJ shares.

LJ is also a poet, musician, and author, reflecting the ambivert nature of someone who is both analytical and artistic. These creative outlets have allowed him to connect with people in unique and meaningful ways. As a husband and father of two daughters, he takes great pride in their achievements and continues to encourage them to pursue their passions.

Words of Wisdom: Finding Purpose in Partnership with God
For current students at USC, LJ has a simple but profound piece of advice: “Partner with God to discover and walk in your purpose.” He emphasizes the importance of becoming a person of integrity—someone who values others and holds themselves to a high standard. “Focus on being complete in Christ,” he urges. “When you align yourself with God’s plan for your life, success follows.”

Tips for Success: BE-DO-HAVE
In both academics and career, LJ offers a straightforward formula for success: BE-DO-HAVE. “Become the person who will do the things that ensure you have the success God has already prepared for you,” he explains. This philosophy has served him well, guiding him through his career and personal life as a husband and proud father of two talented daughters, both musicians and budding entrepreneurs.

A Legacy of Service
Throughout his career and life, LJ’s commitment to service, rooted in his faith and CUC upbringing, has been unwavering. He continues to give back to the institution that shaped him, offering his time and talents to guide future generations.

As LJ continues to lead Trinidad and Tobago’s digital transformation efforts, his journey from CUC to national leadership stands as a shining example of how faith, education, and purpose can shape not only a career but a legacy.

For Laurence Jerome “LJ” Modeste, the future is as boundless as his faith.

By Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President

A Leap of Faith: From Grenada to Trinidad

Born and raised in the picturesque island of Grenada, Dr. Janice Maitland’s journey into the world of education began with a leap of faith. As an only child, she grew up in a close-knit family environment, surrounded by the love and guidance of her mother, aunts, and uncles. Despite the financial challenges, her determination to pursue higher education was unwavering.

“When I expressed my desire to attend Caribbean Union College (CUC), my mother, being a single parent, was concerned about the financial burden,” Dr. Maitland reminisces. “But my uncles and aunts came together, and their support allowed me to embark on this new chapter in Trinidad.”

The CUC Experience: A Foundation for Life
Arriving at CUC, young Janice was stepping into the unknown, leaving behind the familiarity of her Methodist high school in Grenada. But what she found at CUC was a vibrant community that quickly became her second family. She bonded with fellow students from across the Caribbean, forming friendships that would last a lifetime.

“I met three other students—one from Guyana and two from Barbados—and we became inseparable,” she recalls with a smile. “We were all studying different aspects of home science, and together, we navigated the challenges and joys of college life.”

But it wasn’t just about academics. The experience at CUC was transformative, shaping her values and setting the course for her future. Despite the financial hurdles, including a second year where funds were scarce, Dr. Maitland’s faith never wavered. “God provided,” she says, recounting how a dentist graciously paid for her second year of tuition.

A Surprising Path to Education
Though she never intended to become a teacher, Dr. Maitland found herself drawn into the world of education almost by accident. “I never saw myself as a teacher,” she admits. “But from playing school with my dolls as a child to eventually teaching and leading in the educational field, it seems it was meant to be.”

After graduating with an Associate Degree in Secretarial Science in 1967, Dr. Maitland returned to Grenada, where she began teaching at an elementary school. It was during this time that her relationship with Dr. Fitzroy Maitland, whom she had known since their days at the same Adventist church in St. George’s, deepened. Their courtship, which began during their high school years, culminated in marriage shortly after she began her teaching career.

Returning to Serve: A Legacy at CUC
Dr. Maitland’s connection to CUC remained strong, and throughout the years, she returned to the institution alongside her husband to serve in various capacities. As a lecturer in the Department of Education, she played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of educators. But her contributions didn’t stop there.

She spearheaded the honors program, a challenging yet rewarding initiative that recognized and nurtured academic excellence. Additionally, she laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the Human Resources Department at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), leaving an indelible mark on the institution’s development.

A Champion for Family Life Education
Before retiring, Dr. Maitland was elected as the Superintendent of Education for the Ontario Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, where she served for six years. In this role, she guided the educational processes of ten schools across Ontario, bringing her passion for education and her expertise in Family Life Education to the forefront.

Dr. Maitland’s career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to education and her deep belief in the transformative power of learning. “I can’t imagine doing anything else,” she reflects. “Everything I’ve accomplished, from my time at CUC to my work in Grenada and Ontario, has been a testament to the importance of faith, education, and community.”

Awards, Recognition, and Leadership
Dr. Maitland’s dedication to education and her outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has received numerous awards and recognition for her work. Her efforts have been celebrated within the Seventh-day Adventist educational community, where she has been recognized as a leader and a mentor to many.

Among her many accolades, Dr. Maitland was honored with the Exemplary Leadership Award from the Ontario Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and the Distinguished Educator Award from USC. These awards highlight her unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and supporting the holistic development of students.

Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
Dr. Maitland encourages students to prayerfully set SMART goals for themselves – make them Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. She continues with words of wisdom to current USC students: “Follow the wisdom in Proverbs 3:5,6 to faithfully keep God as your ‘numero uno’. Your path may not always be clear, and you may face challenges that seem insurmountable. But remember, every obstacle is an opportunity to grow. Trust in God’s plan for your life, seek out mentors, and never underestimate the power of community.”

She adds, “Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about shaping your character and preparing you to serve others. Embrace every experience, stay curious, and always look for ways to give back. Your journey may take unexpected turns, but each step will bring you closer to fulfilling your purpose.”

Looking Back with Gratitude
As she looks back on her journey, Dr. Maitland expresses profound gratitude for the support she received along the way—from her family, her CUC community, and the many colleagues and students she has mentored over the years. “It’s like a strand that connects everything from that time to now,” she muses. “And it all began at CUC.”

For Dr. Maitland, the journey from a small island in the Caribbean to a significant role in education has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the belief that, with the right support, anything is possible. As she continues to inspire those around her, Dr. Maitland’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.