Faculty Spotlight: Mrs. Sasha Samaroo-Burgos – Nurturing Excellence in Nursing 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.
- Published in Faculty, News, President's Newsletter
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Dave V. Cassie – Unveiling the Innovator
By Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Meet Dr. Dave V. Cassie, a dedicated and innovative Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) School of Science, Technology & Allied Health. With an impressive 14-year tenure at USC, Dr. Cassie has continually pushed the boundaries of science education, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment for his students.
Pictured: Dr. Dave V. Cassie
Academic Journey and Expertise
Dr. Cassie’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication and passion for science and education. He holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership in Higher Education from the University of the West Indies Open Campus (2015-2020). Prior to that, he earned a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Chemistry (Research) and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry/Analytical Chemistry with First Class Honors from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad.
His extensive background in chemistry and educational leadership has equipped him with the expertise to lead innovative teaching methods and contribute significantly to the academic community.
Pioneering Teaching Methods
A strong advocate for online learning, Dr. Cassie integrates science simulations and digital/Smartbooks into his curriculum, making science education more accessible and interactive. His approach has been particularly impactful in the chemistry discipline, where traditional teaching methods often fall short. By incorporating these technologies, Dr. Cassie ensures his students receive a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
Mentorship and Student Support
Dr. Cassie’s commitment to student success extends beyond the classroom. He actively mentors students through various programs, including the AERA Researcher Development Program and the Global Banking School Professional Mentoring Programme. His role as a mentor has positively influenced numerous students, including Shawn Walsh, an EdS Candidate at Concordia University, and Dragos Sapunaru from the UK.
As a graduate student supervisor and an active member of the School of Graduate Studies & Research, Dr. Cassie provides invaluable guidance to aspiring researchers, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Research Contributions
Dr. Cassie’s research interests are as diverse as they are impactful. His ongoing projects include examining the attitudes of elementary school leaders towards artificial intelligence in classrooms and exploring e-leadership approaches in post-COVID-19 science teaching. His forthcoming publications, such as “Diversifying Science Teaching in the post COVID-19 era: an e-leadership approach” and “Virtual science simulations: The new frontier in science instruction in the post-pandemic Caribbean,” highlight his commitment to advancing science education.
Dr. Cassie’s extensive body of work also includes studies on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and the challenges of online chemistry learning in the Caribbean. His research not only addresses current educational challenges but also offers practical solutions to enhance the learning experience.
Leadership and Service
Throughout his career at USC, Dr. Cassie has held several key leadership positions, including Chair of the Department of Chemical & Physical Sciences and Chair of the Examination Council. He has actively participated in numerous committees, contributing to the strategic planning and quality assurance efforts at the university. His role as Co-chair of the Program for the USC Research Conference 2024 and his involvement in organizing events like the USC Virtual Research Day 2021 demonstrate his dedication to fostering a vibrant academic community.
Recognized for Excellence
Dr. Cassie’s contributions to science education have not gone unnoticed. He’s been honored with prestigious awards like the 2021 Labster Teacher of Year STEM Excellence Award and the Rafael Douglass Award for Excellence in Science Teaching. His contributions have earned recognition from esteemed organizations and institutions, further solidifying his impact on the academic community.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Cassie envisions a future where science education is continuously enhanced through the integration of new technologies and innovative teaching methods ensuring that students remain engaged and empowered. His vision for the department and field is one of innovation, progress, and inclusivity. He advocates for a move away from pre-COVID-19 teaching methodologies, emphasizing the importance of keeping education dynamic and student-centered.
In Dr. Dave V. Cassie, USC has not just an educator but a true trailblazer—a scholar, mentor, and leader who’s shaping the future of science education one innovation at a time. As he continues to inspire, educate, and lead, his legacy will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on USC and the world of academia. His dedication to enhancing the learning experience at USC and his forward-thinking approach to science education make him a true asset to the university.
- Published in Faculty, News, President's Newsletter
USC Nutrition and Dietetics Graduates Shine with Success in U.S. Registration Examination
By Claudette Mitchell, Ph.D., RDN
Promoting continued advancement in higher education is embedded in the vision, mission, and motto of the University of the Southern Caribbean. This initiative is embraced by its faculty, staff, graduates, and students as together they seek to make a difference not only by offering assistance or engaging in service but rather in preparation for the delivery of quality service through self-development and practical training. Such approaches are reflected in the instructional delivery of degree programmes, and the efficiency and operation of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences.
The Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, though the youngest of the programmes, just about a decade since its’ implementation is well sought after by students at the local, regional, and international levels. The programme offers the student dietitian the opportunity for practical application within the cultural context of the Caribbean region, and the wider international community, as 100 percent of our credits are accepted by universities in the United States. Presently, pre and post-pandemic era, practical training for our student dietitians is conducted across Caribbean territories – Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis [specifically on the island of Nevis], St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.
The graduates from the programme since its inception have won Organization of American States (OAS) Scholarships and pursued graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, Loma Linda University, Dominican University, Oakwood University, University of the West Indies, and the University of Technology, Jamaica. Among these outstanding academic institutions, they completed the dietetic internship at Johns Hopkins University, Loma Linda University, Dominican University, and Oakwood University. The employability and marketability of our graduates remain consistently high; they are hired by the governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as community nutrition officers, and in other cases, they are micro entrepreneurs in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago.
In the academic year 2023/2024, two (2) graduates successfully passed the Registration Examination for Dietitians in the United States of America. These individuals are Brittany Whiteman, MPHN, RDN; and Sudi Potts, MBA, RDN.
The Department of Family and Consumer Sciences extends congratulations to these graduates and is proud of their achievements. To God be the glory! We look forward to greater success among our alumni and will continue to provide support to aid our students in achieving their career goals.
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
USC Got Talent Season 2: Showcasing Unparalleled Artistry and Triumph
By Nadira Mohammed
As the resounding cheers of students echoed and the enchanting melodies of musical and theatrical performances filled the air, USC wrapped up its semester with the grand culmination of Season 2 of USC Got Talent.
USC Got Talent stands as a beacon for nurturing and showcasing the finest talents from USC, extending its reach to embrace Trinidad and Tobago, the wider Caribbean, and beyond. This event was established and developed by the Spiritual Development Department and the School of Education and Humanities of the University of the Southern Caribbean.
The event spanned from November 8th to November 26th, kicking off with auditions on November 4th. It comprised five training sessions, one pre-recorded event, and two live showcases.
There were three plenary sessions that catered towards holistic development and professional networking of the contestants. The competition unfolded across three riveting rounds: Blind Auditions, Semi-Finals, and the climactic Final Round. Starting with a maximum of twenty contestants, each round saw a gradual elimination process, culminating in the top 3 contestants claiming their rightful places in the Final Round.
The Dean of the School of Education and Humanities, Dr. Loverne Browne, and Pastor Terry John are the two main stakeholders of this event. While the idea for a talent show was birthed in a Student Executive Committee meeting at the School of Education and Humanities in September, 2022, the students embraced the vision and have far exceeded all expectations.
The UGT is an initiative aimed at facilitating development and training of students on several levels. In the first instance it is geared at providing the platform by which students can lead out in the planning and execution of the event. The goal was to ensure that students found ways to harness their skills in productions such as these and create new skill sets that may not have been their prior.This is of critical importance for the students in the School of Education and Humanities in particular as well as other interested students in USC. One of the major selling points of UGT is that students are given the opportunity to lead while we as administrators provide administrative support. For all involved, they receive training in their various talent areas on stage and off and in so doing they obtain a take away that will be beneficial for the rest of their lives.
With Mr. Anton Charles being the Executive Producer, Director, Creative Director, and overall Host of USC Got Talent, he stated, “USC is a lighthouse for talent, talent emanates from every fiber of this school, and the Got Talent series is so important to the development of those talents because there are so many persons who are gifted in so many areas but do not know how to advance themselves in said areas, and so USC Got Talent aims at being that platform that allows students to grow the appreciation for developing their talent instead of just viewing it as a hobby.”
Four discerning judges, each representing distinct talent realms, presided over the elimination process. Post the semi-finals, contestants received personalized mentorship from their judges, honing their skills for the Final Round—a two-stage showdown culminating in the crowning of the USC Got Talent monarch. The People’s Choice Award honored the finalist with the highest online votes of the season.
Following each season, USC Got Talent plans to host professional Master classes guided by seasoned experts, aimed at students keen on refining their skills. Additionally, an event akin to the original USC Got Talent is set to spotlight the talents of registered students to a broader audience.
The panel of judges comprised experts in their respective categories:
- Cleon Richardson, the voice category judge, renowned for his multifaceted expertise in music production and education.
- Anthony Woodruff, known as Tony Paul, led the instrumental category, celebrated for his prowess in jazz education and performance.
- Lesley Lewis-Alleyne, a distinguished figure in both scientific and artistic realms, presided over Dance & Choreography.
- Ronaldo Mohammed, an advocate and artist in Spoken Word/Poetry/Theatre/Drama, brought his expertise to the judging panel.
The pinnacle of Season 2 saw Ms. Ivana Wong, Ms. Alphiesha Guischard, and Mr. Jesse Schultz emerge as the top three winners.
Jesse Schultz claimed 3rd place in the music (instrumental) category, showcasing his prowess as a third-year Music major at USC.
Alphiesha Guischard, a Hospitality and Tourism major at USC, earned 2nd place in the Spoken Word/Poetry/Theatre category, captivating audiences with her phenomenal performances.
Securing 1st place was Ivana Wong, a Nursing major at USC, distinguished for her soulful voice and devout focus on faith-based music. Her winning piece, a powerful narrative woven through music, resonated deeply with the audience.
Ivana’s winning performance, starting as a poignant portrayal of a slave bound by chains, evolved into a powerful message of liberation and empowerment, urging everyone to “Let Go and Let God.”
Reflecting on their experiences, Alphiesha expressed it as “overwhelming, heart wrenching, and awesome,” while Jesse described it as a pivotal developmental moment in his life. For Ivana, it was nothing short of a blessing.
For those eager to witness these remarkable performances, USC Got Talent offers access to the winning showcase, events, and episodes on their YouTube channel (youtube.com/@uscgottalent) and Instagram (instagram.com/uscgottalent). Season 3 is slated for November 2024, with registrations opening officially in April 2024. USCians can actively engage by signing up for roles within the production team, management team, or editing bay.
- Published in Events, News, School of Education & Humanities
USC’s Nursing Education Department Progresses Towards ACEN Accreditation
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) Nursing Education Department has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Following a series of rigorous evaluations and assessments, USC has successfully attained Candidacy Status, marking a crucial step forward in ensuring the program meets stringent international quality standards.
A Journey Towards Excellence
The journey towards Candidacy Status was guided by the Advisory visit from ACEN, which took place from October 1-4, 2023. This visit aimed to assist USC in meeting the necessary criteria for Candidacy Status, a pivotal stage in the accreditation process. Candidacy Status signifies that USC’s nursing education program aligns with rigorous international standards, ensuring graduates can seamlessly transfer credits globally.
The ACEN Advisory team, led by Dr. Nell Ard, Director of ACEN, acknowledged USC’s commitment to excellence. USC’s responses to quality standards were deemed accurate,
and efforts to enhance teaching and learning, including curriculum updates and the acquisition of simulation manikins, were recognized as valuable contributions to the educational experience.
Positive Outcomes and Looking Ahead
The Advisory visit yielded positive outcomes, with the ACEN team acknowledging USC’s commitment to excellence. USC’s responses to quality standards were deemed accurate, and efforts to enhance teaching and learning, including curriculum updates and the acquisition of simulation manikins, were recognized as valuable contributions to the educational experience.
Dr. Phyllis Woolford, Director of USC’s Nursing Department, highlighted the positive impact of the accreditation process on faculty, staff, and student morale. She emphasized the international validation of faculty and staff contributions to program quality, fostering professional development and growth within the department.
With Candidacy Status achieved, USC’s Nursing Education Department is poised for further growth and development. The department foresees expanding its offerings to include a Master’s program in Primary Healthcare, catering to students with aspirations to work in the United States.
While celebrating this milestone, USC remains committed to maintaining high standards across its Nursing Education programs. The department has identified specific resource and improvement needs, including the provision of dry labs with simulation manikins, larger classrooms, additional faculty, and the occupation of a new building on the main campus.
As USC continues its journey towards full accreditation, the university remains dedicated to providing exceptional education and training in nursing. The attainment of Candidacy Status represents a significant achievement, reflecting USC’s unwavering commitment to excellence in Nursing Education.
With a strong foundation in place, USC looks forward to further enhancing its reputation and attracting top-tier faculty and students in the field of Nursing Education.
The USC community celebrates this milestone and looks forward to the continued success and growth of the Nursing Education Department.
USC Recognizes World Mental Health Day 2023 with a Focus on Human Rights
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer & Sadia Moore, Chair of the Department of Sociology & Psychology
In a bid to emphasize the importance of mental health as a universal human right, the School of Social Sciences (SSS) at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) commemorated World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2023, with a special live program held at the university’s Social Sciences Auditorium. The event aimed to promote mental health education, awareness, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues within both the USC community and Trinidad & Tobago as a whole.
This year’s global theme, “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right,” resonated deeply with USC, where the commitment to promoting well-being and human rights is a core value. The program was designed to address the three essential aspects of human rights: Provision, Protection, and Participation, especially concerning the mental health of young individuals.
Dr. Kenneth Niles, Adjunct Faculty of the School of Social Sciences at USC, led a panel discussion during the event. The distinguished panelists who joined him included WPC Sacha Williams-Goddard from the Community Oriented Policing Section of the Trinidad & Tobago Police Service, Ms. Dionne Guischard, CEO of Families in Action, Mrs. Janine Mc Ewen-Simmons, Instructor at the School of Education & Humanities at USC, and Mr. Vayani Toney, a Masters Student in the National Security Program at the School of Graduate Studies at USC.
The event was attended by both a live audience at the Social Sciences Auditorium and a virtual audience through the University of the Southern Caribbean’s YouTube channel. The diverse audience included students from USC, CUC Secondary School, Southern Academy of SDA, and Bates Memorial High School, as well as faculty, staff, and members of the wider public.
The engaging panel discussion touched on various aspects of mental health and human rights, providing valuable insights for attendees. These discussions aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the field of mental health, emphasizing the significance of Provision, Protection, and Participation in ensuring the well-being of youth.
USC’s commitment to mental health education and advocacy extends beyond this event, as it is a part of their broader mission to foster an environment where all individuals feel supported and empowered to seek help when needed.
In recognizing World Mental Health Day, the University of the Southern Caribbean reaffirms its dedication to promoting mental well-being as a universal human right, and its ongoing commitment to addressing this important issue within its community and the wider Trinidad & Tobago society.
- Published in News, School of Social Sciences
USC at the NHRC 2022!
Author: Dr. Dave V. Cassie, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences
For yet another year, the University of the Southern Caribbean has thrown its full support behind the hosting of the National Health Research Conference 2022. Health, well-being and research is a vital part of the philosophy of Adventist education and are part of the main pillars of USC’s development and advancement. This year the conference was held face to face for the first time on November 25 at the Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain, Trinidad under the theme: “Pandemics, NCDs and the Future: When Emerging Infections and NCDs Meet” The conference, now in its third year was previously held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
At the recently concluded event USC President, Dr. Colwick Wilson brought reflective and engaging opening remarks along with his counterparts from the University of Trinidad and Tobago, University of the West Indies as well as Dr. Faith B. Yisrael, Secretary of Health, Wellness and Social Protection of the Tobago House of Assembly. Also in attendance via Zoom was Professor Jonathan Patz of the University of Wisconsin-Madison who brought an enlightening feature presentation entitled: “The Climate Crisis: Implications for both Infectious and Non-Communicable Diseases” which highlighted the connection between climate change and the emergence of disease. This was then followed by the feature address which was given by the The Honourable Terrence Deyalsingh Minister of Health, Trinidad and Tobago.
Students of USC were also part of this exciting and informative event. Research from student representatives of the School of Social Sciences was shared via poster presentations. Ms. Allison Abraham-Riley shared her research on Peer Pressure and Alcohol Use among Tertiary level students in Trinidad and Ms. Kere Wylie shared her research on An Assessment of the Impact of HIV Knowledge on Sexual Behavior among Young Adults In Tobago. Ms. Arielle Jobe and her counterparts Naomi Palmer and Stephanie Murphy shared their group research project on Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance among University Students: A Phenomenological Study.
Planning for this successful event began more than six months ago and was spear-headed by Professor Donald T. Simeon of UWI, Chair of the Inter-Institutional Planning Committee, a committee made up of representatives from partner institutions including Ministry of Health, THA, CCHSRD, UWI, USC, UTT and RHAs. USC was represented on that committee by Dr. Edward Clarke, Dr. Susan Chand and Dr. Dave Cassie.
During the day there were sixteen oral presentations which highlighted health research being conducted by students, faculty and staff among the partner institutions and were categorized under the following topics: Infectious diseases, Chronic non-communicable diseases, Clinical/Laboratory studies and Mental Health and Family Planning. Additionally, there were over seventy research poster presentations that were displayed via electronic poster boards. The day culminated with an Awards Ceremony to celebrate the Lifetime Research Achievement Awardee, Professor Terrence Seemungal of UWI as well as to distribute prizes for outstanding oral and poster presentations. As we look forward to NHRC 2023, we are confident of USC’s continued support and involvement in this event and its forward thrust in the areas of health, well-being and research.
USCian Excellence Tops the 2022 Conference of the Economy Debate (COTE)
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
UWI’s annual Conference of the Economic Debate (COTE) addresses important economic concerns confronting Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean in light of the current global context.
The 2022 COTE debate saw the University of the Southern Caribbean represented by Mr. Gershom Byng, Ms. Nyla Nyack and Ms. Chelsea Austin, students of USC’s School of Business & Entrepreneurship (SOBE).
In a stunning display of USCian excellence, the team defeated UWI Roytec in the preliminary round and UWI St. Augustine in the finals to claim the title of the Conference of Economy Debate winners.
Team leader Mr. Byng expressed his excitement about this well deserved reward as a final year student. He also expresses his heartfelt gratitude to the School of Business and Entrepreneurship faculty Dr. Stephen Pilgrim, Mr. Winchester and Ms. Esther Cedeno.
- Published in News, School of Business
Celebrating World Mental Health Day 2022
By Ms. Sadia Moore
On October 10, 2022 the world observed World Mental Health Day, with special focus on the global theme, Mental Health and Well-Being for all a Global Priority. The School of Social Sciences (SSS) at the University of the Southern Caribbean, in recognition of this day, hosted a live programme on Wednesday, October 5, 2022. The programme focused on raising awareness of mental health, and encouraging a culture that supports mental health and well-being at the University of the Southern Caribbean, the community and Trinidad & Tobago. The university believes that such a program will mobilize efforts in support of mental health wellness in the Caribbean region.
The feature presenter was Dr. Samuel Shafe, Medical Director, St. Ann’s Psychiatric Hospital. Specially invited guests who shared a brief message to the audience included, Ms. Ashvini Nath, Manager of the Mental Health Unit at the Ministry of Health and Mrs. Irma Bailey-Reyes, Interim Supervisor, Developmental Assessment & Intervention Unit, Ministry of Education. There were 400 persons watching live virtually and 55 persons attended live, which consisted of students, faculty, staff, and the public.
- Published in News, School of Social Sciences