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.

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

In a convergence of academia, spirituality, and health, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) hosted its inaugural research conference on March 7-8, 2024. Held at the Social Sciences Auditorium on USC’s Main Campus, the event welcomed over 400 attendees, both in-person and virtually, to delve into the theme of “The Scientific Contribution of Spirituality/Religion on Health & Well-Being,” with a special emphasis on “Forgiveness & Health: A Human Flourishing Perspective.”

The conference commenced with an inspiring Opening Ceremony featuring esteemed Guest Speaker, The Honorable Terrance Deyalsingh, Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago. Minister Deyalsingh’s address delved into the profound implications of spirituality and religion on healthcare, challenging attendees to reconsider their understanding of these concepts in the context of human well-being.

Addressing the audience, Minister Deyalsingh emphasized the constitutional recognition of the supremacy of God in Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting the role of spirituality and religion in shaping individual and collective values. Drawing from personal experiences and scientific literature, he underscored the inseparable connection between spirituality, health, and overall well-being.

Reflecting on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Deyalsingh shared insights into the role of spirituality and religiosity in coping with crisis situations.

He stressed the importance of adopting a wellness approach to health, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions, and urged attendees to treat their bodies as temples through healthy lifestyle choices.

Throughout the conference, attendees were treated to enlightening keynote addresses from renowned scholars in their respective fields.

The Scientific Contribution of Spirituality/Religion on Health & Well-Being

Dr. David R. Williams, Norman Professor of Public Health at Harvard University, illuminated the historical and contemporary significance of religious involvement in promoting physical and mental well-being. His comprehensive overview delved into the complex interplay between religiosity and health outcomes, highlighting both the benefits and potential drawbacks associated with religious practices.

Forgiveness, “Liming”, and Flourishing in Trinidad and Tobago

Dr. Loren L. Toussaint, Professor of Psychology at Luther College, offered a nuanced exploration of forgiveness within the cultural context of Trinidad and Tobago. Drawing upon local traditions of “liming” and social cohesion, Dr. Toussaint underscored forgiveness as a catalyst for personal growth and societal harmony, emphasizing its profound implications for mental and physical flourishing.

Black Immigrant Literacies: Leveraging a Language of Forgiveness for Flourishing

Dr. Patriann Smith, Associate Professor of Literacy Studies at the University of South Florida, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on Black immigrant literacies and the transformative power of forgiveness. Through her interdisciplinary lens, Dr. Smith challenged prevailing narratives and advocated for a more inclusive approach to language and literacy education, rooted in principles of forgiveness and acceptance.

Innovative approaches to Facilitate Health Research in Trinidad and Tobago

Professor Donald T. Simeon, Director of the Caribbean Centre for Health Systems Research and Development, provided insights into innovative approaches to health research in Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement in addressing pressing health challenges.

In addition to the keynote addresses, the conference featured presentations from scholars representing esteemed institutions worldwide, including Andrews University, Athens State University, Christian Medical College (Vellore, India), Harvard University, Loma Linda University, Luther College, Morgan State University, Northern Caribbean University, Texas Tech University, University of South Florida, University of the West Indies (St. Augustine), and the West Indies School of Theology. This diverse array of perspectives enriched the dialogue surrounding spirituality, forgiveness, and health, fostering interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration.

A highlight of the conference was the launch of the David R. Williams Interdisciplinary Center for Health and Well-being, signaling USC’s commitment to excellence in research and education. The center’s multifaceted mandate encompasses advancing research, promoting health equity, fostering education and training, and engaging with local communities to effect meaningful change.

Looking ahead, plans are already underway for the USC Research Conference 2025, which will focus on “Lifestyle, NCDs, and Innovative Research Methodologies in Health and Well-being.” The call for abstracts will open on May 3, 2025, inviting scholars and researchers to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on pressing health issues.

In conclusion, the USC Research Conference 2024 provided a platform for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to explore the nexus of spirituality, forgiveness, and health from diverse perspectives. As attendees departed, they carried with them not only newfound knowledge but also a renewed sense of purpose in advancing the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.

View full event album here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720315291646 

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

In the heart of Maracas Valley, at the USC Auditorium, a celebration of intellect, compassion, and talent unfolded on Sunday, March 10, 2024.

The Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2024, graced by the patronage of Mrs. Sharon Clark-Rowley, Attorney and wife of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, brought together eight delegates from the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) to showcase their dedication to academic excellence and community service.

Under the overarching theme of “Fighting Poverty and Hunger: Promoting Food Security in the Caribbean – One Plate at a Time,” the pageant echoed the global call to action embodied in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It was a theme that resonated deeply with the participants, highlighting their commitment to addressing pressing issues facing the region.

The Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant is not merely a one-night affair but a 7-month odyssey, cultivating academic prowess, cultural appreciation, and a profound sense of community service among its delegates. The journey comprises two pivotal components:

Community Projects: At the heart of the Portraits of Excellence journey lies a commitment to community and compassion. Delegates, fueled by a shared purpose, embraced the challenge to make a meaningful impact through community projects. As part of this transformative experience, delegates and their clubs each devoted a minimum of 20 hours to community development initiatives echoing the pageant’s theme. These community development projects, assessed and recorded, play a vital role, contributing 15% to the overall scores of our dedicated delegates. Through their service, these aspiring leaders not only showcased their dedication to positive change but also embodied the USCian spirit of unity, service, and love for humanity.

Research Presentations: On Monday, February 19, 2024, at the Social Sciences Auditorium, our Mr. & Ms. USC hopefuls presented their extensive research projects on the theme “Fighting Poverty and Hunger: Promoting Food Security in the Caribbean – One Plate at a Time”. From tackling the impact of global warming on crop cultivation to innovative strategies for climate-resilient agriculture, our delegates shared insights, discoveries, and solutions for a sustainable future. The USCian spirit was alive with vibrant energy, as students proudly rocked their colors, waved flags, and cheered on their territories. One of several pre-pageant activities, the Portraits of Excellence Research Presentations plays a significant role in determining the delegates’ overall scores. Their written research projects contribute 30% to their final evaluation, and the oral presentations of their research findings contribute another 10% to their overall scores.

As anticipation mounted, the pageant culminated in a dazzling display of talent and cultural pride. From captivating performances to stunning cultural wear presentations, each contestant left an indelible mark on the stage, embodying the rich diversity and vibrancy of Caribbean culture.

The esteemed panel of judges, comprising luminaries from various fields, including film, academia, poetry, and government, meticulously evaluated each performance.

• Mr. Kivonne Ramsawak – Film Director and Editor, Film Production Unit, UWI St. Augustine
• Dr. Deirdre Charles – Director of Student Services and Development, UWI St. Augustine
• Mr. Derron Sandy – Spoken Word Poet, Performer, Creative Education and Artistic Director.
• Mrs. Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis – Minister of Sport and Community Development, Government of Trinidad & Tobago.
• Ms. Candace Alcantara  – USC alumna with over fourteen years of experience in strategic planning, corporate communications, public relations, brand management,  event production, media relations, and advertising.

Results & Awards

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, accolades were bestowed upon the deserving. Jerleema Frampton emerged as a beacon of excellence, clinching multiple awards including Best Research Oral Presentation and the coveted title of Ms. USC 2024. Similarly, Juhmaul Belfon, with his exemplary research prowess, secured the title of Mr. USC 2024.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners. Collectively, these eight remarkable delegates, exemplified the spirit of excellence, dedication, and community service throughout their journey in the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2024.

• Ms. Jerleema Frampton: Best Research Oral Presentation, Congeniality Award, Best Cultural Wear: Female, and crowned as Ms. USC 2024
• Mr. Juhmaul Belfon: Best Overall Research Award and titled as Mr. USC 2024
• Ms. Shauntae Price & Mr. Aziel Hoyte [Barbados Club]: Best Community Project Award
• Ms. Marica Hector: People’s Choice Award, and 25% Tuition Award
• Mr. Ronaldo Stoby: Best Cultural Wear: Male, and First Runner-up: Male
• Ms. Shauntae Price: Best Talent: Female and First Runner-up: Female
• Ms. Elsa Elvin: 25% Tuition Award
• Mr. Aziel Hoyte: 25% Tuition Award
• Mr. Nkosi Cato: 25% Tuition Award

Yet, beyond the accolades, the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2024 embodied a profound ethos of empowerment and social change. Hosted by USC alumni Mr. Michael Ron Christopher and Mrs. Josann Mulchansigh-Christopher, the event served as a testament to the transformative power of education and the indomitable spirit of the USC community.

As the curtains drew to a close, the Portraits of Excellence Scholarship Pageant 2024 left an indelible mark, inspiring a new generation of leaders committed to shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all.

View Full Album: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720315354375

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

The University of the Southern Caribbean’s School of Theology & Religion (STAR) recently played host to the 11th annual Harold Baptiste Lecture Series, a much-anticipated event that delved into the dynamic interplay between faith and technology. Held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, this year’s theme, “Divine Algorithms?: The Role of AI in shaping Modern Evangelism,” ignited vibrant discussions and profound reflections on the evolving landscape of religious outreach in the digital age.

Dr. Carlos Robles, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Strategic Planning, and Distance Education at the Inter-American Adventist Theological Seminary, delivered a captivating keynote address that explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in contemporary evangelism. Dr. Robles emphasized that AI is not merely a passive tool but a pivotal force for change across various domains. His presentation shed light on the groundbreaking advancements in AI, particularly generative AI, which not only facilitates information retrieval but also generates new knowledge, revolutionizing the dissemination of religious teachings.

Drawing from historical precedents, Dr. Robles traced the profound impact of technological innovations on religious dissemination, from the Gutenberg press to the advent of radio, television, and the internet. He highlighted the emergence of the metaverse, a digital realm where religious rituals, such as baptisms, are conducted, underscoring the unprecedented opportunities and ethical considerations posed by AI integration.

Central to Dr. Robles’ presentation was the call for ethical engagement with AI in religious contexts. He emphasized the need for wisdom and discernment in harnessing AI’s potential, cautioning against biases and hallucinations inherent in AI algorithms. Dr. Robles urged attendees to approach AI integration with a mindset of ethical vigilance, ensuring that technological advancements align with Christian values and contribute positively to human flourishing.

Serving as respondent, Dr. LeRoy Hill, Director of the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) at the University of West Indies, St. Augustine, offered valuable insights into the pedagogical and ethical dimensions of AI integration. Dr. Hill’s reflections underscored the profound impact of Dr. Robles’ presentation, prompting profound theological reasoning and ethical considerations among attendees.

The Harold Baptiste Lecture Series holds a special place within the USC community, honoring the enduring legacy of Pastor Harold and Shirley Baptiste, whose commitment to ministry continues to inspire. This year’s lecture series provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and exploration of the evolving relationship between faith and technology, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

As attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions surrounding the ethical, theological, and practical implications of AI integration, the event served as a catalyst for advancing knowledge and inspiring positive change. Through the Harold Baptiste Lecture Series, the USC community reaffirmed its commitment to embracing technological advancements while upholding timeless values of compassion, empathy, and community. As the boundaries between technology and spirituality blur, the lecture series remains a beacon of intellectual inquiry and reflection, challenging participants to explore new frontiers in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and societal transformation.

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

On a bright Saturday morning, February 17, 2024, the spirit of unity and devotion echoed through the streets of west Trinidad as the iConnect ministry and students from the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) embarked on a remarkable journey of faith. Collaborating with the Portraits of Excellence 2024 Delegates, they set out to spread love, minister, and uplift spirits on what would become an unforgettable Blitz journey.

Led by the visionary guidance of Pastor Terry A. John – Vice President for Spiritual Development and Senior Church Pastor, Pkezia Isidore – ASB Director for Spiritual Awareness, Aquisha Akool – iConnect Student Coordinator, and Chaplain Rachel Sealy, the day was meticulously organized to touch the hearts of communities surrounding the Ebenezer SDA, Woodbrook SDA, Sande Grande SDA, Carenage SDA, and Cocorite SDA churches, where they poured out their love and shared their faith with open arms.

The backbone of the iConnect ministry lies in its branch ministries – iPraise, iProclaim, iPray, iPreach, iProvide, and iPrevail. Each of these ministries played a vital role in making the Sabbath a resounding success. From soul-stirring musical performances by the iPraise ministry to the heartfelt prayers of the iPray ministry, every aspect of the service was infused with passion and purpose. Sermons and lessons were eloquently delivered by the iPreach and iProclaim ministries, inspiring reflections on the unity of the body of Christ, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.

The morning’s services celebrated unity in diversity, with the theme resonating through the Sabbath school feature and the sermon. Participants were reminded that there is no “I” in “team,” emphasizing the collective effort required to share God’s word with the world. It was a powerful reminder that each individual has a unique role to play in the greater mission of spreading love and faith.

As the day unfolded, the spirit of celebration continued to soar during the afternoon’s service at the picturesque Chaguaramas Boardwalk. Congregations from the visited churches and the USC community came together for an open-air AY service, creating a vibrant tapestry of voices and testimonies.

From stirring musical performances by local talents to poignant spoken word pieces and heartfelt testimonials, the atmosphere was charged with love and positivity. The HISLUV choir and Kahlan Roach from USC added their voices to the chorus of praise, uplifting spirits and spreading joy.

Pastor John concluded the evening service with a powerful message, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. As the day drew to a close, hearts were filled with gratitude for the fellowship shared and the spiritual nourishment received. The Blitz Journey of 2024 was more than just a day of ministry and praise; it was a testament to the transformative power of unity, love, and collective action in spreading God’s love to the world. It was an experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to be a part of it.

View full album here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720314996600

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

On Thursday, February 8, 2024, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) administration car park was transformed into a vibrant spectacle as students gathered for the eagerly anticipated Freshmen Social: Glow Fest. From 8:30 pm to 11:00 pm, the campus came alive with music, laughter, and the luminous glow of neon colors, marking the beginning of an unforgettable tradition for both new and returning USCians.

Freshmen Social is a biannual event deeply ingrained in the fabric of USC’s academic calendar. Held at the onset of each semester, it serves as a rite of passage for incoming freshmen while offering a well-deserved break for seasoned students amidst their academic endeavors. This longstanding tradition not only welcomes new faces to the USC community but also fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie among all attendees.

The orchestrator behind the success of Glow Fest was the ASB Director of Social and Cultural Activities, Ms. Anya Nero, along with her dedicated subcommittee. Her meticulous planning and creative vision brought the Glow Fest theme to life, transforming the venue into a glowing paradise. Students were encouraged to dress in white and neon colors, adding to the radiant ambiance of the event.

As the night unfolded, attendees were treated to an array of activities designed to ignite their spirits and forge lasting memories. From neon face painting stations to glow stick dance-offs, there was no shortage of excitement and entertainment. The pulsating beats of the music provided the soundtrack for an evening filled with laughter, dancing, and newfound friendships.

Freshmen Social: Glow Fest not only marked the beginning of a new academic journey for freshmen but also reaffirmed the enduring spirit of community and celebration at USC. As students bid farewell to the event, their hearts were filled with anticipation for the adventures that awaited them in the days and semesters ahead.

As the glow of Glow Fest fades into the night, its spirit of unity and joy will continue to illuminate the halls of USC, reminding students that they are part of a vibrant and welcoming community where memories are made and traditions endure. Until the next Freshmen Social, the glow of this unforgettable evening will serve as a beacon of inspiration for all USCians, guiding them through their academic pursuits with passion and purpose.

View event album here: flickr.com/photos/200072169@N03/sets/72177720314809418/

By Nadira Mohammed

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) recently hosted its 12th iteration of the student leadership workshop which began in 2018. The mission of this workshop is to provide Leadership development for our University Students through professional education workshops and programs. The vision is to enhance the leadership capacity of students so they enhance their profession, communities and society.

The aim of this program is to allow students to develop critical thinking skills, an understanding of change processes, and be able to think critically about obstacles to change, and to comprehend and be able to utilize a process for decision-making.

This event was hosted by Dr. Kenneth Niles, a faculty member of grad school and social sciences. He was there to make the students get comfortable with their peers around them. Mr. Jad Isidore (Mr. USC) held an ice breaker which allowed the students to come up on the podium and express their style of leadership symbolized by any object/s in the room.

The guest speaker for this event was Ms. Vernisha Ayoung. Ms. Ayoung is an information and digital technology professional with over 28 years of IT experience. Her work experience has taken her from the US to the UK, Canada, South America, Latin America, Europe, and India. Her leadership experience comes from various industries including nonprofit health education media and oil and gas as well as from various roles in church.

She graduated in 1999 with a double major in Behavioural Science and Computer Information Systems and later acquired a Masters in Business Administration. During the pandemic she later completed a postgraduate certificate in executive strategic leadership and is currently a doctoral candidate at Liberty University.

Ms. Ayoung’s presentation was on Ethical Leadership in the Digital Age. This topic had three (3) important components; ethics, digital age, and leadership, all of which she expanded on as she went along.

She started off her presentation with the definition of ethical leadership and stated, “Ethical leadership requires professionals to have a wide range of skills and competencies, which are underpinned by ethics, trust, integrity, and recognition of their corporate responsibility. Complexity in the professional environment brought on by rapidly evolving technology, digital disruption and mis/disinformation, is directly impacting all organizations and professionals.” Following this definition, she further stated, “all of these things directly impact organizations and impact you as a professional.”

With reference to Mr. USC’s ice breaker she indicated that this is where ethics come in, “it is about your values.” Her main points revolved around cyber security, artificial intelligence (AI), and mechanical learning.

She indicated that youths need to be careful in the news they hear and to trust, but always verify because not all news that is shown is correct, fake news is an epidemic. Ethics transcend all ages, not physically but every period, and as young leader, the values you harness have to tie in with the corporate responsibility.

She informed that the Digital Age, similar to the Industrial Age, still has a learning process with the new upcoming tools. The tools of the digital age are Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) which is a subset of AI, Cyber Security, Data Culture, and Accessibility to Information. “Data is the new oil”

She begins her presentation on leadership with the stark difference between being a manager and a leader as explained by Steve Jobs. Following this Ms. Ayoung voices that information technology and business are extremely interwoven as everything in the digital age needs technology.

One of her most hair-raising quotations from the presentation came closer to her conclusion, “As a leader you look for the opportunities and the challenges and how you respond to them.”

She explained the different generations leading up to Generation Z (Gen Z) and tied it into the different markets that each generation reached and further explained how the current generation (Gen Z) can reach their target market.

Upon concluding, she quoted, “Christian leaders are driven by their ethics in any age,” and gave reference to persons from the bible such as Esther & Haman, Daniel, Moses, Joshua, and Gideon. With this she reiterated her points and shared the platforms in which you can reach her. Following the conclusion of her presentation, there was a brief question segment.

Ms. Anna Howell gave the vote of thanks and the closing prayer was done by Ms. Elsa Elvin.

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.

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”.