By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

In a momentous stride towards agricultural sustainability and community development, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) proudly announces the official licensure of its farm by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, and Fisheries of Trinidad & Tobago. This achievement not only signifies a significant milestone in USC’s rich history but also paves the way for enhanced contributions to regional food security and educational initiatives.

Established in 1927, USC’s farm has been an integral part of the institution’s heritage, serving as a hub for agricultural research, education, and community engagement. However, despite its longstanding presence, the farm faced challenges in obtaining official licensure due to historical intricacies surrounding land ownership. Nonetheless, through dedicated efforts and perseverance, USC has successfully navigated through these complexities, culminating in the recent issuance of the official license in October 2023.

The process of acquiring licensure involved meticulous adherence to statutory requirements, including legal documentation, affidavits, and detailed plans for cultivation and processing. With the farm now classified as a registered entity, USC gains access to a myriad of incentives and support from the Ministry of Agriculture, ranging from grants and loans to training programs and networking opportunities. This newfound recognition not only validates USC’s commitment to agricultural excellence but also reinforces its role as a key player in regional agricultural development.

Beyond the confines of the university campus, USC’s farm holds immense potential for collaboration and partnership with the local community and regional stakeholders. Initiatives such as hydroponics training and curriculum expansion signify USC’s dedication to extending its impact beyond academia, fostering a culture of hands-on learning and sustainable agricultural practices.

USC has already begun experiencing the benefits of its farm’s licensure, including reimbursements on equipment purchases. This financial support further bolsters USC’s efforts in promoting sustainability and innovation across campus. Looking ahead, USC envisions its farm as a beacon of food security and sustainability, serving as a model for locally sourced agricultural production. With grant applications underway and plans for the expansion of egg farming projects, USC is poised to play a pivotal role in reducing Trinidad’s dependency on imported food products, particularly in the East-West Corridor.

As USC embarks on its journey towards its centennial anniversary in 2027, the licensure of its farm symbolizes a new chapter in the university’s legacy of excellence and community service. USC invites individuals with expertise in agriculture and related fields to join hands in this transformative endeavor, fostering collaboration and innovation for a more resilient and prosperous future.

For those interested in contributing or partnering with USC’s farm, please contact Mrs. Sharon Ramkissoon-De Freitas, Director of Business Development, via email at ramkissoon-defreitas@usc.edu.tt or telephone at (868) 662-2241/2 ext. 1211. Together, let us cultivate a future of abundance and sustainability for generations to come.

By Simone Augustus & Nykhya Gardiner

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has taken a remarkable step towards addressing food insecurity among its students with the official opening of the “Food for Thought” pantry at the Ladies Residence Hall (LRH). This initiative, a key part of USC’s Food Sufficiency Program, is set to make a profound difference in the lives of students, especially those facing financial hardships. The pantry project was made possible through the generosity of donors, including Chosen 300 Ministries led by Pastor Brian Jenkins and Dr. Sharon Forde-Atikossie, Pastor, and CEO of The Sharing of Bread International Outreach Ministry, a US-based non-profit organization.

The pantry’s establishment comes with a clear mission – to support the students of the Ladies Residence Hall, with a particular focus on those facing economic challenges. A select committee, comprising five individuals including the Ladies’ Club President, the Residence Hall Dean, and three other named individuals, has been appointed to oversee the pantry’s management, disbursement, and inventory. The pantry is scheduled to open every two weeks, ensuring a regular supply of essential items to students in need.

The “Food for Thought” pantry was launched on January 15, 2023, as part of a week of activities designed to engage and uplift the student community. An integral component of the launch included a Women Enrichment Seminar, featuring a presentation by Dr. Forde-Atikossie.

While the “Food for Thought” pantry is now a reality, the vision behind it began to take shape long before its official launch. Jamila February, who served as the Ladies Club President from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, played a pivotal role in bringing this initiative to life. Her determination to address the needs of LRH Residents, who often found themselves struggling due to financial constraints, was the driving force behind the project. Jamila recalled her early inspiration, saying, “As I was at USC prior to the [Covid-19] pandemic, I heard that the school never had a pantry, and students would complain of a lack of money, therefore they would be limited on stuff to eat.”

Determined to serve her fellow residents and fulfill her role as a leader, Jamila embarked on a quest to find donors who could help stock the pantry. Her dedication to the cause was unshakable, and her efforts did not go unnoticed.

The pantry’s meaningful name, “Food for Thought,” was suggested by one of its primary donors, Dr. Sharon Forde-Atikossie. Jamila explained, “It’s more than just food; it has a purpose,” emphasizing the broader mission of the pantry.

The journey to establish the pantry was not without its challenges. Jamila and the team encountered obstacles, including customs delays, that could have deterred their progress. However, their unwavering determination, coupled with the belief in a higher purpose, enabled them to overcome these hurdles.

Chosen 300 Ministries and The Sharing of Bread International Outreach Ministry made substantial contributions to the pantry, including a diverse range of items. Their donations encompassed ready-made or easy-to-cook foods, such as macaroni and cheese and various canned items. Recognizing the unique needs of female residents, the ministry also generously provided essential sanitary items and pads.

The students of the Ladies Residence Hall warmly received the “Food for Thought” pantry, appreciating the caring and compassionate gesture. It has not only addressed immediate food needs but also conveyed a powerful message of support and unity within the USC community.

USC commends the dedication of Jamila February, the generous donors, and all those involved in this endeavor for their commitment to serving the student community and upholding the values of compassion and empathy. The “Food for Thought” pantry is more than just a source of nourishment; it symbolizes the care and solidarity that define the University of the Southern Caribbean.

By Simone Augustus & Peggy Guerrero

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has embarked on a mission to foster sustainability, enrich the lives of its students, faculty, and the wider community, and promote educational excellence with the grand opening of the USC Kind-hearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store. This initiative, proposed by distinguished USC alums and coordinated by Mrs. Sharon Ramkissoon-De Freitas, USC’s Director of Business Development, goes beyond a typical thrift store, serving as a testament to USC’s commitment to nurturing the head, heart, and hand of its community.

On Thursday, April 27, 2023, the USC Kind-hearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store was officially inaugurated in a vibrant ceremony held at the USC Student Lounge. The launch event welcomed a diverse turnout of USCian students, faculty, staff, and administrators who gathered to support this noble cause.

At its core, Thrift ‘N Valley is not merely a store; it’s a vision brought to life. This venture is designed to provide affordable shopping options for individuals and families, but its significance extends far beyond. It stands as a beacon of sustainability, fostering a culture of socially responsible consumerism by accepting donations of gently used clothing, furniture, and household items. What sets this venture apart is its pledge to channel its profits towards enhancing the experiences of students in need through scholarships. These scholarships will contribute to the operations and quality of life among students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.

The USC community, comprising over 2,500 students spread across seven campuses in Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago, has shown tremendous support for the Kindhearted Thrift ‘N Valley store since its inception, just four months ago.

Generous donations from various quarters have poured in, including contributions from foreign alumni and friends like Colwick & Deleise Wilson, Cheryl Wilson, Nicole Archer, and the North America Alumni Association. These contributions have been instrumental, with an average estimated value of TTD$7,000.00. USC’s dedicated staff and faculty have also joined the cause, with over a dozen members contributing items to the thrift, averaging TTD$4,000.00 in value. Furthermore, the store has received support from friends and the local and foreign community, who, although not directly affiliated with USC, have donated items averaging TTD$10,000.00 in value after learning about the project.

To ensure the thrift store remains relevant and accessible to its target market, USC has invested an average of TTD$15,000.00 in supplies, with an average purchase value of TTD$40,000.00. In its short existence, USC Thrift has achieved remarkable sales nearing TTD$65,000.00, with stock on hand averaging TTD$45,000.00.

Looking ahead, the Kindhearted Thrift ‘N Valley store is poised to become a cornerstone of USC’s efforts to support its students. A local donation drive is already in motion, with companies and organizations like The Tourism and Hotel Association of Trinidad and Tobago, Associated Brands, Bermudez Biscuits, and Terra Caribbean being approached for support. As the store gains momentum, it is anticipated to significantly impact the USC community and beyond, fostering a culture of socially responsible consumerism and inspiring more initiatives that align with these values.

The Kindhearted Thrift ‘N Valley store invites all USCian families and the wider community stakeholders to join in this noble cause, contributing to a future where every student has the opportunity to go beyond excellence.

For more information about the USC Kind-hearted Thrift ‘N Valley Store and how you can contribute or donate, please visit usc.edu.tt/thrift. 

By Nadira Mohammed & Nykhya Gardiner, Corporate Communications Interns

The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) welcomed its 96th academic year with the much-anticipated annual President’s Convocation Ceremony held on Monday, October 2, 2023. The event, held under the theme “Changing Mindsets: Self, Systems, and Strategies,” served as a pivotal moment for USC, setting the stage for the institution’s upcoming centennial celebrations scheduled for 2027.

The President’s Convocation brought together USC’s students, administrators, faculty and staff. This year’s convocation held a unique distinction as it welcomed, for the first time in its history, two special guests of honor: Mr. Leslie Hislop, Principal of the Caribbean Union College Secondary School, and Mrs. Charmaine Jardine-Brisbane, Principal of the Maracas SDA Primary School.

The evening commenced with scripture readings presented by representatives from both the Maracas SDA Primary School and the CUC Secondary School, followed by warm acknowledgments of the special guests by Provost Dr. Len Archer, and greetings from the Deans of USC’s various schools. The audience was serenaded with a piano instrumental by Mr. Steve Marcelle before the keynote address by Dr. Colwick Wilson, USC’s 29th President, who has been in office since July 1st, 2021.

Dr. Wilson’s inspiring speech centered on the theme, “Changing Mindsets: Self, Systems, and Strategies,” emphasizing the need to break away from outdated approaches and embrace the path to becoming “#USCSTRONG.” He eloquently stated, “You cannot put new wine into old wine skins,” underscoring the importance of evolving and adapting to the changing times.

In his address, Dr. Wilson stressed the inclusivity of the Maracas SDA Primary School, CUC Secondary School, and USC, forming a “Partnership at Home.” He echoed the sentiments of Dr. Susan Chand, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, by expressing a commitment to “walk with you through this valley,” signifying a united effort to overcome challenges.

One of the key highlights of Dr. Wilson’s speech was the vision for an improved campus life encapsulated in the Strategic Plan 100 (SP100). Over the next four years, Dr. Wilson, along with Pastor Bertie Henry, Treasurer of the Caribbean Union Conference, will work on plans for 25 campus buildings. These plans are expected to revitalize the university and enhance the overall educational experience for students.

Reflecting on the success of the “Get On The Bus” Campaign, which raised TTD$1.4 million, Dr. Wilson announced the launch of a new fundraising initiative called the Capital Campaign, scheduled for November 18th, 2023. This campaign will provide the necessary resources to bring the ambitious projects discussed during the President’s Convocation to fruition.

In conclusion, the President’s Convocation for the academic year 2023-2024 was an evening filled with profound insights and a vision for USC’s future. It left both the audience and speakers with a renewed sense of purpose and direction as they embark on a journey towards “Changing Mindsets: Self, Systems, and Strategies.” As they move forward, USC is poised to continue its legacy of excellence while embracing innovation and inclusivity in the pursuit of educational excellence in Miracle Valley.

View Flickr Album: https://www.flickr.com/photos/usctt/albums/72177720311686802

View Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mikz5hPYLU0

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

A new era of accessible, cost-effective, and improved healthcare dawned in Maracas Valley on Sunday, September 17, 2023, as the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists (TCH) proudly inaugurated the TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic.

This partnership ushers in a new era of healthcare excellence, making quality medical services accessible to the university community, and more than 3000 residents in Maracas Valley. The collaboration between USC and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists represents a commitment to providing cost-effective and improved health services in the heart of the university campus. This initiative ensures that students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community can enhance their overall well-being through access to high-quality healthcare resources and services provided by Doctors and Nurses of the Community Hospital.

The Grand Opening and Health Fair, held at the TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic directly opposite USC’s Main Campus on Royal Road in Maracas Valley, St. Joseph, were attended by a diverse crowd of community members, faculty, staff, and students, all united in their excitement for this transformative healthcare initiative. The event provided an opportunity for all attendees to benefit from a wide range of free healthcare services and resources, emphasizing the importance of proactive health management.

Legacy of Service Commended in Inspirational Address:

In his address, MP Forde reflected on the timeless message of Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever,” emphasizing the unchanging principles that guide the Seventh-day Adventist community’s mission, including their medical missionary work. He shared historical anecdotes, such as the arrival of Miss Stella Colvin, a trained nurse from the United States, in Trinidad in 1894 to provide medical care, highlighting the denomination’s long-standing legacy of medical outreach.

MP Forde also paid tribute to the Port of Spain Community Hospital, established in 1962, and its significant role in supporting government medical services and relieving the strain on existing hospitals. He noted the historical significance of September 17th in the Seventh-day Adventist community’s engagement with medical and community health.

MP Forde celebrated the collaborative effort of USC and the Community Hospital, recognizing the clinic as a bold step that complements the government’s healthcare services

Highlights of the Health Fair included:

Vision Screenings: Attendees availed themselves of comprehensive vision screenings, promoting early detection of eye-related issues.

Doctor’s Consultations: Highly qualified medical practitioners offered individual consultations, addressing a variety of health concerns and providing expert guidance.

Blood Pressure Testing: Free blood pressure testing allowed individuals to monitor and maintain cardiovascular health.

Blood Sugar Testing: Complimentary blood sugar testing aimed to empower attendees to manage and prevent diabetes through early detection and education.

Nutrition Consultations: Nutrition experts were on hand to provide valuable insights into maintaining a balanced diet and its profound impact on overall health.

The event was a celebration of community, wellness, and collaboration, bringing together families, friends, and colleagues for a day of learning and proactive health measures. The TCH-USC Urgent Care Clinic embodies the shared values of education, community engagement, and holistic well-being.

As it opens its doors to the public, the clinic invites everyone to embark on a journey toward a healthier, happier life. This collaborative effort between USC and the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists represents a beacon of healthcare excellence in the heart of Maracas Valley.

By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer

The recently concluded Grant & Proposal Writing Workshop, held from September 11 to 13, 2023, has left a lasting impact on participants from various Seventh-day Adventist entities across the Caribbean. The workshop, hosted by the ADRA & Health Ministries Department of the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (CARU), in collaboration with Loma Linda University (LLU) and the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to secure vital funding for their projects and initiatives.

The three-day workshop was a resounding success, thanks to the guidance and expertise of its facilitators, Dr. David P. Harris, Vice President of Information Systems at Loma Linda University, and Dr. Albin Grohar, Senior Advisor for Foundations and Grants at Loma Linda University. The facilitators brought a wealth of experience in grant writing and proposal development, making this event an invaluable opportunity for participants to learn from experts in the field.

Participants Representing Diverse Entities:

The workshop attracted a diverse group of participants, hailing from various Seventh-day Adventist organizations and missions across the Caribbean. Notable attendees included:

• Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (CARU)
• South Leeward Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
• Tobago Mission of Seventh-day Adventists
• St. Vincent & the Grenadines of Seventh-day Adventists
• St. Lucia Mission of Seventh-day Adventists
• North Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
• ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency)
• Community Services of Seventh-day Adventists
• Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
• East Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
• South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
  

The diverse representation underscored the critical importance of grant writing and proposal development skills across a wide range of organizations focused on community development, healthcare, education, and humanitarian work.

Key Takeaways:

Throughout the workshop, participants gained practical insights into various aspects of grant writing, including identifying funding opportunities, crafting compelling proposals, and establishing strong relationships with funders. Interactive sessions and hands-on activities allowed attendees to apply their newly acquired knowledge in real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing their understanding of the grant-seeking process.

One of the standout features of the workshop was the emphasis on tailoring proposals to meet the unique needs and expectations of different funding organizations. Dr. Harris and Dr. Grohar stressed the importance of aligning project goals with the mission and priorities of potential funders to increase the likelihood of success.

USC Administrators, Faculty, and Staff at the Forefront:

The enthusiastic participation of USC’s administrators, faculty, and staff members underscores the institution’s commitment to a culture of lifelong learning, academic excellence and the development of its community members.

On the cusp of celebrating its centennial in 2027, USC has set ambitious goals for its next century of service to the Caribbean region. These goals include expanding academic offerings, increasing research and development initiatives, and strengthening partnerships with local and international organizations. The Grant & Proposal Writing Workshop directly contributes to these objectives by equipping USC’s community with essential skills to secure external funding for research, projects, and community development initiatives.

As our participants further build upon the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop, USC is poised to make even greater contributions to the region’s development. This collaborative effort exemplifies USC’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to empowering its community for a brighter future.

By Simone Augustus & Peggy Guerrero

Wednesday, March 15, 2023, marked a special day for the FreeDOM Clinic as it received a visit from distinguished individuals, including Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for St. Ann’s East; His Excellency Arthur H.W. Williams, High Commissioner for Jamaica; His Worship the Mayor Alderman, Joel Martinez, Mayor of the City of Port of Spain; the Honourable Esmond Forde, Member of Parliament for Tunapuna; the Honorable Corey Selvon, Councillor for Maracas/Santa Margarita, and Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of the University of the Southern Caribbean. Their presence highlighted the significance of this collaborative effort in addressing healthcare disparities.

Over the course of four days, the FreeDOM Clinic’s dedicated team provided services to an astonishing 1,225 individuals. This included addressing 214 medical cases, aiding 495 individuals with vision services, and providing dental care to 516 people. These numbers not only underscore the pressing need for affordable healthcare but also highlight the incredible dedication of the medical professionals and volunteers who made it all possible.

The success of the FreeDOM Clinic would not have been possible without the generous support of partners and sponsors. The Nursing Council of Trinidad & Tobago, Dental Council of Trinidad and Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago Optometrists Association, Blue Waters, Caribbean Health Foods, Nestle Trinidad, USC’s Food Services and Nurse Education Departments, the Rotary Club of Port of Spain, MP Esmond Forde, Councillor Corey Selvon, the Community Hospital of Seventh-day Adventists, the South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists, and the Caribbean Union Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists all played pivotal roles in making this mission a reality. Their contributions ensured that vital medical services reached those who needed them most.

The mission was graciously hosted by MP Esmond Forde, who, alongside other contributors, facilitated community transportation, promoted the clinic in various communities, and provided essential volunteer assistance. 

The Rotary Club of Port of Spain also made significant contributions to the mission, providing invaluable support in promotion within various communities, volunteer assistance, and corporate sponsorship. Their innovative suggestions, such as implementing a pre-registration drive to gauge prospective attendance were instrumental in the mission’s success.

The contributions from various donors, including providing daily meals for physicians and volunteers were pivotal in realizing the mission’s goals.

United Hands and Freedom Clinic didn’t stop at providing medical care; they extended their outreach through a week of prayer at the Caribbean Union College Secondary School, Maracas SDA Primary School, University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), and other outreach programs at various SDA schools in Trinidad. United Hands and Freedom Clinic also donated 14 laptop computers to the Maracas SDA Primary School, ensuring that the gift of education continues to uplift the community. These initiatives reinforced their commitment to holistic health and spiritual nourishment.

The impact of this mission is profound and enduring. United Hands has committed to returning in 2025 to continue providing invaluable service to the community. Their work, which seamlessly blends medical care, spiritual nourishment, and community upliftment, stands as a shining example of the profound impact of selfless service.

In the words of Ann Burnett, Executive Director of United Hands, “Helping those in need” is not just a motto; it’s a calling that has transformed countless lives. The unity of hands in service has woven a tapestry of hope, healing, and community care that transcends the present and inspires us all to continue working together for a better future. The USC and its partners are immensely proud of this impactful collaboration, and they look forward to future endeavors that will continue to transform lives.

USC Announces New Leadership Appointments

The University of the Southern Caribbean is pleased to announce the appointment of its new team of experienced leaders, following the decision made by the Board of Trustees on February 23, 2023:

• Len Archer (PhD), Provost
• Lena Caesar (EdD, PhD) Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies
• Barbara Reynolds (EdD), Vice President of Administration, Advancement, and Planning
• Samuel Sankar, Director of Strategic Partnerships and University Relations

USC is also delighted to announce additional key leadership appointments:

• Susan Chand (PhD), Dean, School of Social Sciences
• Sharon Ramkissoon De Freitas ( MSc. ), Director of Business Development
• Nordian C. Swaby Robinson (MBA), Director, Institutional Research

We are excited to welcome these new leaders and their families to our team and look forward to the contributions they will make to USC. These leaders bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our institution, and we are thrilled to have them join our team.

Len Archer (PhD), Provost, previously served and Interim Provost at USC. He  holds the title of Professor Emeritus since his retirement in 2020 from AdventHealth University where he served as the Vice-President for Academic Administration and Academic Dean for Undergraduate programs at AdventHealth University for 10 years.

Dr. Archer is a native of Trinidad and Tobago and received his undergraduate degree in Botany and Applied Botany at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad.

He completed a M.S. (Biology) at Andrews University and a PhD in Microbiology at Indiana State University. He joined the faculty at Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences, now AdventHealth University in 1993. He created the department of Health and Biomedical Sciences and served as the department chair from 2000 to 2011. He has published in the area of Microbiology and presented at national meetings in student retention and student advisement at the American Association of College Registrars and Academic Officers (AACRAO) where he was a member of AACRAO national committees.

Dr. Archer has been a nominee for several teaching awards and a recipient of the Zapara Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2020, Dr. Archer was the recipient of the AdventHealth University Distinguished Service Award. He remains active as a consultant in academic administration, faculty development, and accreditation.

Dr. Archer has been married to Nichole Archer (nee, Bovell) for 45 years – a 1978 graduate of Caribbean Union College (now USC). 

Lena G. Caesar, (PhD, EdD)  Associate Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies, holds academic doctorates in Special Education and in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences/Speech-Language Pathology. Her experience in educational settings spans a range of levels and continents. Currently in her 12th year of teaching and administration at Loyola University in Maryland,  Caesar’s teaching and administrative experience includes six years of service as a fully-certified secondary school teacher in St. Lucia and Guyana, almost five years as Program Director of the Institute of Modern Languages, at Montemorelos University in Mexico, and 15 years as Faculty & Chair of the Department of Speech-Language Pathology at Andrews University in the USA. 

In addition to the scores of research articles which she has published, Caesar is also the recipient of multiple research grants, including a 2017 ASHA Foundation award that funded research on language acquisition in a Caribbean territory. Caesar is also nationally and internationally recognized for her partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). In recognition of her research exploits while at Loyola University Maryland, Caesar has been twice nominated for the Distinguished Scholar of the Year award.

Dr. Lena Caesar is a native of St. Lucia, and is happily married to Dr. Lael Caesar, a former professor of Hebrew Bible at Andrews University who recently retired from the General Conference after 11 years of service as Associate Editor of the Adventist Review & Adventist World magazines. 

She looks forward to giving back to her Alma Mater a portion of the wonderful legacy that she was privileged to receive as a student on this very campus several decades ago.

Barbara Reynolds (EdD), Vice President of Administration, Advancement, and Planning, is a native of the Guyana and has served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics and Planning and International Engagement at the University of Guyana. Prior to this, Dr. Reynolds was Head of Education for Save the Children UK, having spent the previous two decades with UNICEF in education, child protection, women’s development/gender, and representation in emergency and non-emergency contexts. She currently serves as the Vice-Chairperson of the United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent and as the Co-Chair of the CARICOM Digital Skills Task Force. She is an active human rights professional, and an experienced Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR), human rights and gender mainstreaming facilitator. She holds a BA Education (Caribbean Union College), MA in Curriculum and Teaching (Howard University), the Post-Graduate Diploma in Distance Education (University of London), EdD in International Education Development/Curriculum and Instruction (Columbia University), and the MSt in International Human Rights Law (University of Oxford). Dr Reynolds’ second working language is Portuguese.

Samuel Sankar, Director of Strategic Partnerships and University Relations  is a native of Trinidad and Tobago and has over thirty-five (35) years of experience in marketing, selling and sales management, coupled with leadership training. In addition, he has experience in areas such as health care, leadership training, manufacturing textiles, printing, health foods manufacturing, agriculture, project management and industrial relations. He sits on a global round table representing Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean with over twenty-five (25) years as an executive and graduate of the IFEA. He is the founder of IFEA Caribbean, international award winner for the City Award for Trinidad and Tobago in 2012. He has served the Seventh-day Adventist Church managing protocol and diplomacy by enabling and supporting the hosting of events and celebrations since 1995. He has worked with foreign missions, embassies and Diplomatic corps. He has managed welcome receptions for representatives of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Inter-American Division, Caribbean Union Conference and South Caribbean Conference.

Susan Julia Chand, Dean, School of Social Sciences and professor of Anthropology has been working at USC since 2005. 

Dr. Chand has a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Botany (Major) and Mathematics (Minor) from Spicer Adventist University (formerly Spicer Memorial College, 1987), Master of Arts in Anthropology (1988) and a Doctoral degree (PhD, 1997) in Medical Anthropology, both from Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune (India).  

Dr. Chand is a Medical Anthropologist with over 22 years of teaching and research experience in the tertiary institutions in India, namely, Spicer Adventist University and Roorkee Adventist College, and University of the Southern Caribbean in Trinidad and Tobago. She supervises students’ theses at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels and serves as external examiner for national and international universities. She is passionate about conducting ethnographic studies and have studied the indigenous/ ethnic groups in India, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Belize. Based on her studies, she has presented papers in several national and international conferences in India, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Mexico, Belize, Ecuador, and Netherlands. Her research articles are also published in peer reviewed academic journals and as book chapters.

Dr. Chand is married to Mr. David Chand, Assistant Professor in the Department of Teacher Education, School of Education and Humanities at the University of the Southern Caribbean.  

Ms. Nordian C. Swaby Robinson, Director of Institutional Research is an avid supporter of Adventist Education.  She has served the Seventh-day Adventist Tertiary Institution for over 20 years.  Nordian has held various positions at Northern Caribbean University and University of the Southern Caribbean in Assessment, Research Officer, Quality Assurance, Online Coordinator and Lecturer. 

Ms. Swaby Robinson holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing (USC, Trinidad), a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies, and an Associate Degree in Business Administration (NCU, Jamaica). She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education (EdD). 

Her accomplishment includes being a part of the team contributing to USC achieving its full accreditation status for both the Accreditation Council of Trinidad & Tobago (ACTT) and Accrediting Association of Seventh-day Adventist Schools (AAA) and the creation of the first student satisfaction survey for USC.  Nordian led out, coordinated and published  the USC Factbook 2022.

Ms. Swaby Robinson has a pleasant disposition and personality. She also enjoys interacting with and motivating individuals to meet their full potential. She strives for continuous improvement while propelling the University Beyond Excellence.

Sharon Ramkissoon De Freitas, Director of Business Development, is an Attorney at Law and a Business woman with over 26 years’ experience. She is an alumna of UWI, Staffordshire-UK and USC. 

Mrs. De Freitas  is the holder of a Master of  Science in International Relations from the University of the West Indies and a Bachelor of Law from the University of London, England.  Also has a Diploma of Law from the University of London and Diploma in Business from the Institute of Commercial Management, London.  She is a member of the Panel of Duty Counsel and Legal Aid Scheme.

Mrs. De Freitas was employed as an Administrative Assistant  from 1995-2005 at the South Caribbean Conference and then Secondary School Teacher for a seven year period.  She also served as a Lecturer (part time) at the University of London.  

Mrs De Freitas is married to Pastor Brian De Freitas, Minister of the Chase Village District of SDA churches in Trinidad and Tobago.  

Mrs Ramkissoon De Freitas enjoys gardening, construction, recycling, and being of service giving voice to the voiceless.