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

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is proud to highlight Ms. Kimarah Reefe as the Faculty Spotlight for September 2024. With her vibrant teaching style, dedication to student development, and impressive contributions to her field, Ms. Reefe has quickly become a beloved and influential figure at USC. In just seven years, Ms. Reefe has made an indelible mark on the Occupational Therapy Department and its students.

As the Acting Director of the Occupational Therapy Department within the School of Graduate Studies, Ms. Reefe has cultivated a dynamic learning environment that balances academic rigor with practical, hands-on experience.

With a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and a specialization in Pediatrics, Ms. Reefe has dedicated her career to empowering future occupational therapists; bringing a wealth of knowledge and practical skills to the classroom. Her passion for pediatric therapy shines through in her work, inspiring students to engage deeply with the material and pursue excellence in the field. Her influence extends beyond theory, as she emphasizes the importance of hands-on, experiential learning in helping students grasp complex concepts.

USC holds the unique distinction of being the only tertiary institution in the Caribbean region that offers a degree in Occupational Therapy. Under Ms. Reefe’s leadership, this program has continued to grow, providing students with the rare opportunity to pursue this specialized field in Trinidad and Tobago.

Teaching with Impact
Ms. Reefe’s approach to teaching is both practical and engaging. She believes that true learning happens when students take an active role in the process, often saying, “If you can teach it, you’ve learned it.” The philosophy that students truly understand concepts when they are given the opportunity to teach others, drives her to incorporate peer teaching as a cornerstone of her approach.

Her classes are anything but ordinary; through real-world experiences and collaborative learning, she creates an environment where students can explore ideas, challenge themselves, and gain confidence in their abilities. This innovative method has earned her admiration from both students and colleagues, who appreciate her focus on making learning both interactive and deeply impactful.

Mentorship and Lifelong Learning
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Reefe is a passionate advocate for mentorship, encouraging her students to seek out mentors. She knows firsthand the pivotal role of mentorship, having experienced it throughout her own career. Her guidance extends to helping students build a support network that fosters development, both academically and personally. This commitment has helped countless students at USC build the confidence and skills necessary to excel in the demanding field of occupational therapy.

Groundbreaking Research and Contributions
Ms. Reefe’s contributions to occupational therapy are not limited to her teaching. Her research has made waves in the field, particularly her 2023 publication, Expanding Practice in Trinidad and Tobago: Training Therapists to Implement Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy. This groundbreaking study, co-authored with colleagues, highlights her commitment to expanding the scope of pediatric therapy in Trinidad and Tobago. Currently, she is working on a capstone project focused on caregiver skills training for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, further cementing her reputation as a leader in the field.

Active Leadership in the Community
Ms. Reefe’s leadership doesn’t stop at research; she is a dedicated advocate for occupational therapy on a national level. As Treasurer of the Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Therapy Association, she plays an essential role in advancing the profession and ensuring high standards of care. On campus, she is an active participant in various committees, including the 2024 Colloquium Committee, where her insights help shape meaningful initiatives and events.

Advancing the Field with Vision
Looking toward the future, Ms. Reefe envisions a bright path for the Occupational Therapy Department at USC. She is passionate about increasing student intake and reopening the student-run clinic, which will provide much-needed services to both the USC community and the wider population of Trinidad and Tobago. Her ambition to bring in Fulbright Scholars to expand faculty expertise reflects her commitment to continually improving the department and offering students the best possible education.

Recognition and Impact
Ms. Reefe has been recognized for her research and leadership in pediatric occupational therapy by both professional organizations and academic institutions. Her innovative teaching, community advocacy, and forward-thinking vision make her an exemplary figure in the field of occupational therapy and a true asset to USC.

In every role she plays—educator, mentor, researcher, and advocate—Ms. Kimarah Reefe embodies the spirit of excellence. Her passion for her field and her students is evident in everything she does, and her impact will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of occupational therapy at USC and beyond.

By Ms. Sherri-Lyn Legall and Ms. Simone Augustus

The 26th annual Caribbean Tertiary Level Personnel Association (CTLPA) regional conference converged at the picturesque Starfish Resort in Courland Bay, Tobago, from June 25 to 27, 2024. With the theme, “The Future of Higher Education: Trends and Innovations,” this year’s conference was a beacon of thought leadership, collaboration, and cultural exchange, focusing keenly on the Caribbean’s unique educational landscape.

Ms. Del Phillips, Assistant Professor at the School of Business and Entrepreneurship at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) represented USC with poise and professionalism. Ms. Phillips not only absorbed the wealth of knowledge shared but also actively contributed to the dialogue, serving as a moderator for two plenary sessions. These sessions brought together leading experts and educators to discuss the latest trends, best practices, and the pressing challenges facing higher education, particularly within the Caribbean context.

With participants hailing from Jamaica, Barbados, St. Kitts, Trinidad and Tobago, and the USA, the conference was a melting pot of perspectives. Each delegate brought their own unique insights and experiences, making every discussion rich with diversity and depth. For Ms. Phillips, the event was more than just a professional gathering; it was an opportunity to network with faculty from across the region, engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, and glean invaluable insights that would not only enhance her teaching practices but also contribute to the broader educational community.

Beyond the sessions and workshops, one of the key highlights of the conference was the announcement by the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), which is the parent body of CTLPA, headquartered in Chicago. In a move designed to democratize access to professional development resources and foster a more inclusive academic environment, ACPA extended automatic membership to all CTLPA members. This new initiative also includes discounted access to training, workshops, and seminars—an incredible boon for educators striving to stay at the cutting edge of their fields.

For those involved in higher education in the Caribbean, the 26th CTLPA regional conference was a pivotal event, offering not just a glimpse into the future of higher education but also the tools and connections necessary to shape it. As Ms. Phillips returned to USC, she carried with her new ideas, fresh perspectives, and a renewed commitment to excellence, all of which she is eager to share with her colleagues and students alike. 

The future of higher education in the Caribbean is indeed bright, with conferences like CTLPA lighting the way forward.

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

At the University of the Southern Caribbean’s 91st Commencement Ceremony, the academic achievements of two esteemed faculty members were celebrated as they were hooded for completing their doctoral studies. The recognition of these scholars marks a significant milestone in their academic careers and underscores the university’s commitment to excellence in education.

Dr. Grace Jacott  
A pillar of the USC community for 17 years, Dr. Grace Jacott was hooded after completing her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (Higher Education) with a specialization in Leadership in Tertiary Education. Dr. Jacott, who serves as the Coordinator of USC’s International Center for Corporate Training & Languages, conducted her research on the transition from emergency remote teaching to planned online education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dissertation, titled “From Emergency Remote Teaching to Planned Online Education by Academic Leaders at a University in Trinidad and Tobago During the Covid-19 Period, 2020 to 2022,” was completed at the University of the West Indies Global Campus in September 2023.

Dr. Jonathan Barran 
Since joining USC in 2020, Dr. Jonathan Barran has been a vital part of the School of Business & Entrepreneurship. Dr. Barran earned his Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Vern University, focusing on Business Management. His dissertation, “A Critical Study of Digital Marketing Strategies’ Impact on Consumer Purchases in the Retail Industry within Trinidad and Tobago,” reflects his dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of business management.

Dr. Fayola St. Bernard
Also recognized was Dr. Fayola St. Bernard, the Chair of USC’s Department of Computing, Mathematics, and Technology. Dr. St. Bernard was awarded her PhD in Technology Enhanced Learning from Lancaster University, UK, in December 2023. Her dissertation, “Examining the Impact of Game-Based Learning on Student Performance and Engagement in an Introductory Computer Programming Class,” highlights her innovative approach to education and her commitment to enhancing student learning experiences. Although she was hooded earlier, USC took this opportunity to celebrate her remarkable achievement.

These faculty members’ accomplishments reflect their perseverance, dedication, and commitment to academic and professional excellence. Their contributions will undoubtedly continue to enrich the USC community, inspiring both colleagues and students alike.

USC congratulates Dr. Jacott, Dr. Barran, and Dr. St. Bernard on their outstanding achievements and looks forward to their continued contributions to the university’s mission of transforming lives through education.

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is proud to shine the Faculty Spotlight on Mrs. Sasha Samaroo-Burgos in the June 2024 issue of the President’s Newsletter. For the past decade, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos has served as a dedicated lecturer in USC’s Department of Nursing Education, leaving an indelible mark on both her students and colleagues as she inspires and innovates. She brings a wealth of experience and passion to the USC community through her teaching methods, dedicated mentorship, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

As a proud USC alumna, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos’ journey began within these very halls where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further honed her expertise with a Master’s in Nursing Education from the University of the West Indies and is now pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a focus on Executive Leadership. Her academic journey, deeply rooted in USC’s values, is reflected in her passionate approach to teaching and mentorship.

Innovative Teaching Methods and Mentorship
In her role as an educator, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos employs a variety of dynamic teaching strategies to engage her students actively. From simulation activities and problem-based learning to interactive games like Jeopardy, Family Feud, crosswords, and Blooket, her innovative approaches make learning both enjoyable and effective. These methods not only foster critical thinking but also help students grasp complex concepts more easily. Through constructive feedback, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos motivates her students to reach their highest potential, creating an enriching classroom environment.

As a member of USC’s first cohort of nursing students, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos deeply understands the challenges her students face. Her personal experiences allow her to empathize with their concerns, providing professional and spiritual guidance to help them achieve a balanced, healthy life. She passionately believes in the World Health Organization’s definition of health, emphasizing the importance of physical, mental, and social well-being. Her mentorship goes beyond academics, fostering a supportive environment that nurtures the holistic development of her students.

Research and Publications: Advancing Nursing Practice
Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos is not only an educator but also an avid researcher. She authored a significant paper on “Palliative Care to Paralyzed Patients: Lived Experiences of Registered Nurses at the Intensive Care Unit of a Major Hospital.” Her current projects include developing clinical practice guidelines to enhance nursing quality and creating interactive games to improve classroom learning experiences. She is also gearing up for research on how classroom simulation influences students’ performance in nursing licensure examinations, reflecting her dedication to advancing nursing education.

Building a Resilient Community through Collaborations and Engagement
In addition to her teaching and research roles, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos serves as the vice president of the faculty senate, participating in vital discussions and advocacy for faculty development. Her involvement extends to attending various workshops and conferences, such as those on simulation, artificial intelligence in academia, and nurse faculty development. She recently joined the international group Teachers Transforming Nursing Education, which offers valuable resources and strategies for academic growth.

Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos fosters collaboration through her active participation in annual research days at USC and networking with private and public institutions to promote the university. Her commitment to enhancing the learning experience at USC is evident in her belief that students are the key stakeholders. She emphasizes creating an optimal academic journey, with God at the center, ensuring that success is achievable for all.

Contributing to USC’s Legacy
Guided by the exemplary leadership of Dr. Woolford, director of the nursing department, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos envisions a resilient, collaborative nursing department that upholds USC’s ethos. She is dedicated to strengthening alliances with other schools within the university, enriching students’ learning experiences as they embark on their spiritual and academic journeys. With a pledge to serve as long as it is God’s will, Mrs. Samaroo-Burgos exemplifies the spirit of dedication and faith that defines the USC community.

USC is honored to have Mrs. Sasha Samaroo-Burgos as a beacon of excellence in nursing education, inspiring future generations of nurses to achieve greatness in their professional and personal lives.