USC’s 91st Graduation Weekend Continues with an Inspiring Baccalaureate Service with Dr. Slimen Saliba
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is delighted to announce that Dr. Slimen Saliba will be the distinguished guest speaker for the Baccalaureate Service during our 91st Graduation weekend. The service will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:30am at the USC Auditorium on our Main Campus in Maracas Valley, St. Joseph, and will be streamed live on YouTube (youtube.com/@UoSC).
Meet Dr. Slimen Saliba
Dr. Slimen Saliba, is a distinguished academic and leader with a profound heritage and a global impact. Born in Barataria, Trinidad, Dr. Saliba’s journey began with humble roots. His mother, Hyacinthe Saliba, an elementary school teacher, and his father, Nabih Saliba, a Lebanese immigrant, instilled in him a passion for education and service from a young age.
Dr. Saliba’s educational path led him from Woodbrook CM Elementary School to Queen’s Royal College and then to Caribbean Union College (now USC), where he began his Theology studies in 1963.
His quest for knowledge and excellence took him to Andrews University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Religion and History in 1967 and a Master of Arts in Ethics and Theology in 1969.
Upon returning to Trinidad in 1970, Dr. Saliba dedicated himself to the South Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, serving as a Youth Director and later as Executive Secretary. His commitment to his faith and community was further solidified when he was ordained as a minister.
Dr. Saliba’s academic pursuits did not stop there. He completed an MBA at Andrews University in 1978 and a PhD in Marketing Management at Northwestern University in 1983. His exceptional leadership skills were soon recognized, and in 1982, he was appointed Dean of the Andrews University School of Business. Under his tenure, the School of Business experienced significant growth, including the construction of Chan Shun Hall and the establishment of MBA programs in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Trinidad.
Dr. Saliba’s vision extended beyond academia. In 1993, he played a pivotal role in founding the Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences, now AdventHealth University. As Vice President of Marketing at AdventHealth Orlando, he led numerous initiatives that propelled the institution forward.
In 2008, Dr. Saliba married Carolyn Fagal Cales after the passing of his first wife, Patricia Thomson, due to multiple myeloma. Together, they have a blended family of five children and three grandchildren, with loved ones spread across California, Colorado, Orlando, and Toronto.
Dr. Saliba retired in 2017 as Senior Vice President of Marketing at AdventHealth but was soon called back to establish the AdventHealth Leadership Institute. His mission: to develop physician and executive leaders dedicated to extending Christ’s healing ministry.
Despite his retirement as Director of the AdventHealth Leadership Institute, Dr. Saliba continues to serve passionately, embodying his life’s mission and inspiring others.
Join Us Live
Dr. Slimen Saliba’s remarkable journey from Barataria to global leadership is a testament to his dedication and vision. We invite you to join us for the Baccalaureate Service at USC’s 91st Graduation on June 29, 2024, at 10:30am. Dr. Saliba’s profound insights and inspiring life story will set a powerful tone for this celebratory weekend.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a true visionary. Tune in live on YouTube and be part of a momentous occasion as we celebrate “Determined Minds, Boundless Futures.”
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC to Host Virtual Consecration Service with Pastor Anthony S. Hall at 91st Graduation
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Join us on June 28, 2024, at 7:00pm for the virtual Consecration Service as we kick off the University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) 91st Graduation weekend. Streaming live on YouTube (youtube.com/@UoSC), this event promises to inspire and uplift with our esteemed guest speaker, Pastor Anthony S. Hall.
Meet Pastor Anthony S. Hall
Pastor Anthony S. Hall is a distinguished leader and dedicated servant of the Seventh-day Adventist Church with a career spanning over three decades. A graduate of Andrews University, Caribbean Union College, the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill, and the Sir Hugh Wooding Law School, Pastor Hall brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his ministry.
Since 1991, Pastor Hall has faithfully served the church, making significant contributions as the Youth Director of the East Caribbean Conference, Vice President for Student Development and Services at USC, and Youth, Chaplaincy and Public Campus Ministries Director of the Caribbean Union Conference.
His pastoral work has taken him to congregations in St. Lucia and Barbados, where he has left an indelible mark with his compassionate leadership and dedication.
In addition to his theological and pastoral accomplishments, Pastor Hall earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of the West Indies in 2002 and graduated from the Sir Hugh Wooding Law School in 2004. He was admitted as an Attorney-at-Law by the Supreme Court of Barbados and is a member of the Barbados Bar Association of Attorneys-at-Law.
Currently, Pastor Hall serves as the President, Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) and Communication Director for the East Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. He also holds the position of Vice President for Legal Affairs at the Caribbean Religious Liberty Association (CARLA). Known for his compelling sermons and presentations, Pastor Hall is highly sought after for his insights and dedication.
Pastor Hall lives by the philosophy, “The purpose of life is not to be happy, but to matter, to be productive, to be useful and to have it make some difference that you have lived at all.” His unwavering commitment to God, his family, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church is evident in all he does.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Pastor Anthony S. Hall at the USC’s virtual Consecration Service. His words of wisdom and inspiration will set the tone for a remarkable graduation weekend. Tune in live on YouTube and be part of this transformative event!
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
Shaping the Future: Kennisha Sylvester, Valedictorian of USC’s Class of 2024
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
Kennisha Sylvester stands proudly as the Valedictorian of the University of the Southern Caribbean’s Class of 2024. With a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, earned summa cum laude and a stellar GPA of 3.93, Kennisha’s story is one of inspiration, determination, and the transformative power of education.
A Mother’s Sacrifice: The Catalyst for Change
Kennisha’s journey to academic excellence is deeply rooted in her family’s story. As a first-generation student from a low-income household, higher education seemed like an unattainable dream. Yet, her mother’s relentless sacrifices and unwavering support provided the inspiration Kennisha needed. Her mother’s battle with health issues due to poor nutrition became a turning point, igniting a passion in Kennisha to help others make healthier lifestyle choices. This profound personal experience led her to pursue a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, with a mission to prevent others from facing similar struggles.
Academic Brilliance, Pioneering Research and Leadership
Kennisha’s time at USC was marked by numerous accolades and active participation in campus life. She was a dedicated member of the Health Awareness Club, where she contributed to promoting wellness and healthy living. Her academic journey was nothing short of exemplary. In 2020, she was honored with the President’s List award for the 2019-2020 academic year. She also consistently made it to the Dean’s List and Provost’s List from 2019 to 2021, a testament to her hard work and resilience. Moreover, Kennisha received the ASB Financial Assistance award twice, highlighting her determination and resourcefulness.
Kennisha’s academic achievements extend beyond the classroom. She presented a significant research project on Pancreatitis and Nutrition-related care at St. Georges’ General Hospital in Grenada. This project, part of her Medical Nutrition Therapy Affiliation course, provided valuable insights to medical professionals and patients, showcasing her commitment to advancing nutritional knowledge and care. Despite her busy schedule, Kennisha also organized webinars and led group projects, demonstrating her leadership and dedication to academic and community growth.
USC: A Platform for Personal and Professional Growth
USC played a crucial role in shaping Kennisha’s personal and professional skills. She mastered time management, balancing full-time work as a Clerical Assistant at UWI, running a small business, and excelling academically. Her public speaking skills flourished through constant presentations, transforming her into a confident orator. Additionally, her team-building abilities were honed as she frequently took on leadership roles in group settings. Reflecting on her time at USC, Kennisha describes it as a “home away from home,” a place that has indelibly shaped her identity and future aspirations.
Looking ahead, Kennisha plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Food Science. Her goal is to delve deeper into the science of food and its impact on health. She envisions a career in the food industry, focusing on enhancing food quality and nutritional content, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. Kennisha aims to be an advocate for better food standards, integrating her nutrition expertise to improve public health on a broader scale.
Words of Encouragement: Embrace Your Space
Kennisha leaves her fellow graduates with empowering words: “Take up space.” She encourages them to embrace opportunities and confidently occupy their place in the world. “There’s always demand for individuals with distinctive skills and personalities,” she asserts, urging her peers to pursue their paths boldly, knowing that each of them has a unique contribution to make.
Kennisha’s ability to balance academics and entrepreneurial endeavors sets her apart. Her tenacity and perseverance have been the cornerstones of her success, demonstrating her commitment to excellence. “My ability to maintain a stately balance between academics and entrepreneurial endeavors is indeed a remarkable trait that makes me unique,” she says. “My tenacity and perseverance, which continue to define my adulthood, have empowered me to strive for success.”
Kennisha Sylvester’s story is a testament to the power of determination, the importance of family, and the profound impact of education. As she steps into the future, her journey will undoubtedly inspire many, and her contributions promise to bring positive change to the world of nutrition and food science.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter, Students
The USC Hummers Netball Team Triumphs as Division Champions
By LeRoy Pierre, Director, SPED & Kadan Esson, Corporate Communications Assistant
Courts All Sectors Netball Competition (Alternative Division) Tournament
In a stunning display of skill, teamwork, and determination, the USC Hummers Netball Team emerged victorious in their recent Courts All Sectors Netball Competition (Alternative Division) Tournament, winning all eight (8) of their games and securing the title of division champions. This remarkable achievement has brought immense pride and joy to the University of the Southern Caribbean community.
Under the coaching of internationally renowned coach Grace Parkinson-Griffith and the management of Delano Henry, the USC Hummers Netball Team secured the following titles in the Alternative Division:
- League Champions
- Fast Five Champions
- Most Disciplined Team for the Second Year
- Best Defense – Alternative Division: Shenelle Thomas
- MVP for Team: Gellana Grant
Lystra Lewis Port of Spain Netball League
Adding to their accolades, the USC Hummers also triumphed in the Lystra Lewis Port of Spain Netball League. This achievement was witnessed firsthand by our esteemed President, Dr. Colwick Wilson, who attended their final game on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. The USC community extends a heartfelt salute to our girls, their coach, and their trainer/manager for their grit, skill, and determination in securing yet another victory.
Remarkably, these victories were accomplished against all odds. The team trained on a quarter of a netball court, often under poor lighting, before we received the donated field lights and inconsistent weather conditions, while balancing academic commitments and other constraints. Despite these challenges, their unwavering dedication and teamwork led them to glory.
Special thanks is extended to the Transport Department for providing timely transportation, and to the staff at SPED for ensuring that uniforms were laundered and equipment and supplies were always ready for the team. We also extend our gratitude to the organizers of the LLPOSNL for accommodating our request to avoid scheduling games during Sabbath hours.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, we eagerly await the prize-giving ceremony to honor our champions. The USC Hummers have set a new benchmark of excellence, inspiring the entire USC community with their outstanding performance.
Congratulations to the USC Hummers Netball Team! Go Hummers!
- Published in News, President's Newsletter, Students
University of the Southern Caribbean Announces 91st Graduation Celebration
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) is pleased to announce its 91st Graduation Weekend, scheduled to take place from June 28-30, 2024. Founded in 1927, USC is a private, coeducational institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its Main Campus located in the beautiful Maracas Valley, USC is committed to providing a holistic educational experience that fosters intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth.
USC’s 91st Graduation Weekend will celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2024 under the theme “Determined Minds, Boundless Futures.” The graduating class has chosen the guiding aim “Guided by Faith, Destined by His Calling” and a scripture text from Romans 12:2 (NKJV): “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
The weekend will feature a series of inspiring and celebratory events:
Friday, June 28, 2024, 7:00pm – Consecration Service
Guest Speaker: Pastor Anthony Hall, President, East Caribbean Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Saturday, June 29, 2024, 10:30am – Baccalaureate Service
Guest Speaker: Dr. Slimen Saliba, Director of Programs, AdventHealth Leadership Institute
Saturday, June 29, 2024, 4:30pm – Evening of Tributes
Hosts: Mrs. Rachel Sealy, University Chaplain & Mr. Roland Sealy, Chair, Department of Teacher Education
Sunday, June 30, 2024, 9:00am – Commencement Ceremony
Guest Speaker: Dr. The Honorable Keith C. Rowley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
This year’s graduation will also honor our esteemed alumni from the Classes of 1974 and 1999, celebrating them as our Gold and Silver classes, respectively. USC has graduated over 32,000 alumni who have embodied the spirit of our motto, “Beyond Excellence.” These individuals have carried forward our mission “…to transform ordinary people into extraordinary servants of God to humanity through a holistic tertiary educational experience.”
As USC approaches its centennial celebration in 2027, we reflect on a proud legacy of excellence in education. For nearly 100 years, USC has adhered to an educational philosophy that emphasizes the holistic development of the head, heart, and hand. This philosophy is built on the pillars of intellectual curiosity, moral integrity, cultural diversity, and spiritual nurture.
We invite all USC alumni, friends, and family to join us in celebrating the Class of 2024 as they embark on their journey to make a positive impact on the world.
For more information about USC’s 91st Graduation Weekend, visit usc.edu.tt/graduation
- Published in Events, News, President's Newsletter
University of the Southern Caribbean Charts Bold New Course with SP100 Strategic Plan
By Ms. Sherri-lyn Legall, Dean, School of Business and Entrepreneurship (Interim) & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In February 2022, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) embarked on a transformative journey with the commissioning of a strategic planning committee to develop SP100, a comprehensive strategic plan for the period 2022-2027. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, the committee was tasked with crafting a roadmap that would guide the university’s future growth and development.
Dr. Wilson provided the team with broad strategic priorities, setting the stage for a collaborative and inclusive planning process. The committee was further bolstered by the inclusion of two distinguished alumni, who brought with them extensive experience in senior leadership and strategic planning, to offer support and guidance.
Central to the development of SP100 was the engagement of the university’s stakeholders. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees were all invited to participate in a comprehensive survey to share their ideas and aspirations for the university’s future. The feedback from these surveys was meticulously collated and analyzed, revealing key themes and priorities. This initial feedback was shared with the stakeholder groups, and additional input was solicited to ensure that the plan reflected the diverse perspectives of the USC community.
In addition to internal consultations, the SP100 team conducted an extensive external scanning exercise. This analysis provided crucial data on regional and global trends, ensuring that the strategic plan would be both relevant and forward-looking. The team also held in-depth discussions with USC’s senior leadership, including Vice-Presidents, the Provost, and the Human Resources Director, to gain insights into recent operations and ongoing projects. Trustees of the university were kept informed with progress reports and their feedback was incorporated into the draft plan.
The culmination of these efforts was presented at the University’s Colloquium in August 2022. Here, a summary of the recommended strategic priorities and themes was unveiled, and further feedback from the university community was invited. This iterative process ensured that the final draft of the SP100 plan was a true reflection of the collective vision of USC’s stakeholders.
Over the course of six months, the SP100 team met twice a month, working diligently to compile and refine the gathered information. Following a brief end-of-school-year break, the team resumed its efforts, finalizing the strategic projects and plans that would define USC’s path forward.
The SP100 strategic plan represents a bold vision for the University of the Southern Caribbean, one that is grounded in the aspirations of its community and informed by a rigorous analysis of both internal and external factors. As USC moves into the future, the initiatives and activities outlined in SP100 are expected to drive significant growth and innovation, solidifying USC’s position as a leading institution in the region.
With the implementation of SP100, the University of the Southern Caribbean is poised to embark on a new era of excellence and impact, fostering an environment of learning and development that will benefit students, faculty, and the wider community for years to come.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
Cultivating Multilingualism: USC’s ICCTL Hosts Successful French Guiana ESL Immersion Camp
By Dr. Grace Jacott, Coordinator – ICCTL & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean’s (USC) International Center for Corporate Training and Languages (ICCTL) recently concluded a successful two-week vacation camp aimed at enhancing English language skills for over eighty participants from French Guiana. From May 6-17, 2024, children, parents, and educators from Ecole Adventiste and La Perseverance schools participated in the immersive program designed to improve English proficiency and explore Trinidad’s vibrant culture.
Dr. Grace Jacott, Coordinator of ICCTL, spearheaded the initiative, which sought to provide an engaging and comprehensive English-learning experience. Recognizing the basic introduction to English in the French Guianese elementary curriculum, ICCTL invited the Seventh-day Adventist elementary schools to Trinidad for a full immersion experience.
The camp had three primary goals:
- To immerse native French speakers in an English-rich environment.
- To introduce USC’s various ESL offerings and undergraduate programs.
- To provide cultural exposure and tourism experiences in Trinidad.
English Immersion Strategies & Learning Initiatives
To achieve the first objective, ICCTL created an environment saturated with English language activities. Each day started with the Lord’s Prayer in English, followed by YouTube sing-alongs of familiar Bible choruses. Closed-captioning and action verb demonstrations enhanced word identification and comprehension.
Innovative strategies, such as placing appealing posters in play areas, encouraged children to read while playing. The application of the VARK learning model (Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic) ensured comprehensive engagement. This included singing along to YouTube videos to learn grammar, active modeling of concepts in the classroom, and writing activities using USC-provided textbooks.
Adults in the group also participated in active learning. In one notable session, Mrs. Bengochea led participants in a creative exercise where they designed and described their own costumes, applying new vocabulary about clothing. All participants received academic information packages, including details on USC’s ESL programs and a French/English ESL video for further dissemination.
The camp also featured field trips guided by native English speakers, allowing participants to explore Trinidad’s Eastern, Southern, and Western regions. Highlights included the Caroni Bird Sanctuary and the La Brea Pitch Lake, both of which were described as “awesome” by the visitors.
Commitment to Excellence
USC’s core pillars, Spiritual Ethos and Academic Excellence, were integral to the camp’s structure. Daily devotional programs supported the spiritual development of participants. Separate classes for adults and children, facilitated by USC faculty and regular ESL tutors respectively, underscored the commitment to academic excellence through varied pedagogical approaches catering to all learning styles.
The camp also aimed to bolster ICCTL’s strategic goals, including increased marketing of its regular ESL programs. Participants returned to French Guiana with ESL advertisements for widespread dissemination. The short language courses offered by ICCTL have proven to be lucrative, contributing to the center’s financial sustainability.
The two-week camp not only enhanced the English proficiency of its participants but also fostered cultural exchange and strengthened educational ties between Trinidad and French Guiana. The positive feedback and successful outcomes of the program highlight USC’s dedication to providing impactful language education and immersive cultural experiences.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC Hosts First Annual World Day for Safety at the Workplace
By Mr. Hayden McKenna, University Writer/Editor & Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) marked its first observance of World Day for Safety at the Workplace on April 29, 2024, following the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) global initiative established in 2003. This day, traditionally observed on April 28, emphasizes the prevention of workplace accidents and diseases and leverages the ILO’s strengths in tripartism and social dialogue.
USC’s Occupational Health and Safety Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Security Services, organized this inaugural event, which is set to become an annual fixture. This observance aligns USC with national and regional efforts to ensure health, safety, and security on campus and during off-campus activities such as Blitz, Olympiad, and concert tours.
In a conversation with Mrs. Jillene John-Harris, Assistant Director of Human Resources responsible for Labour Relations and Benefits, and overseer of the Occupational Safety and Health Unit, she confirmed this was USC’s first celebration of World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The idea originated from a departmental meeting where Mrs. Ellin Sorzano-John highlighted the ILO’s observance on April 28, 2024, sparking the initiative for USC’s event.
While the main events, including a campus march, opening ceremony, and a building evacuation challenge, were held on the Main Campus, efforts were made to involve the Extension Campuses and Satellite Sites. Directors of these sites participated in a special training session facilitated by Health and Safety Practitioner Mr. Ronald Hunte and USC’s Director of Security, Mr. Stevenson Byng. Although a debating competition on Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) issues was planned for students across all USC sites, it was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Mrs. John-Harris outlined the primary goal of the Health and Safety Unit: to foster a culture of health, safety, and security at USC and to convey that these elements start with individual responsibility. “Health, safety, and security is everybody’s business,” she emphasized.
Key highlights of the day included:
- The enthusiastic participation of children from the Maracas Seventh-day Adventist Primary School (MSDA) and CUC Secondary School in the campus march and opening ceremony.
- An insightful address by Mr. Franz Brisbane, Chief Inspector of the Occupational Safety and Health Authority and Agency of Trinidad and Tobago, who served as the featured speaker.
- A competitive and educational placard competition.
- Valuable information shared during the training sessions.
Representatives from Caribbean Health Foods Limited, an on-campus entity, also took part in the formal opening ceremony.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Mrs. John-Harris noted, “In my view, the day was successful. It met our main objective of promoting the culture of health, safety, and security on the campus.” Looking ahead, she expressed plans for future observances to include a wider range of stakeholders and more hands-on activities, aiming to deepen the integration of health and safety culture across all USC sites in the Caribbean.
As USC moves forward, the commitment to promoting a safe and healthy work environment remains a top priority, ensuring the well-being of all members of the university community.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
T&TEC Hosts Commissioning Ceremony for New Field Lights at USC
By Kadan Esson, Corporate Communications Assistant
On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) celebrated a significant enhancement in its infrastructure with the installation of new field lights. The Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) hosted a ceremonious event to mark this milestone under the Public Lighting Programme, reflecting USC’s unwavering commitment to fostering exceptional facilities for its students and the broader Maracas Valley community.
The newly installed lights are more than a mere upgrade. They stand as a testament to USC’s dedication to enhancing the overall experience for its community, promising improved visibility and safety that will elevate the university’s athletic programs and make evening activities more enjoyable and accessible.
Mr. Curvis Francois, General Manager of T&TEC, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Marvin Gonzales, Minister of Public Utilities, for his pivotal role in securing the essential funding for this project. Mr. Francois also acknowledged The Honourable Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Member of Parliament for St. Ann’s East, for her steadfast determination and effort. Special thanks were extended to Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, Mr. Leroy Pierre, Coordinator of the Sports and Physical Education Department, and Dr. Kern Tobias, Chairman of USC’s Board of Trustees, for their vital assistance and collaboration on this initiative.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Colwick Wilson, Dr. Kern Tobias expressed sincere appreciation, noting that the new lights would provide enjoyment for both current and future members of the Maracas Valley Community for many years to come.
Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly highlighted the symbolic significance of the ceremony, stating it represented “bringing light to a darkened time in the Maracas Valley.” She praised USC for being a beacon of hope and assured Mr. Francois that the lights would be responsibly utilized by the university.
Addressing the audience, the Honourable Marvin Gonzales shared his concerns about the lack of community activities nationwide. He commended the ceremony for sending a powerful message to USC and the Maracas Valley, emphasizing that “light will always come to dispel darkness,” symbolizing hope and divine presence. Minister Gonzales urged the community to value and maintain the new lights, encouraged by Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly’s commitment to USC’s responsible use. He also called on USC to continue investing in the holistic development of its students, emphasizing their social, spiritual, and academic well-being.
This event underscored the strength of collaboration and community support. USC extends heartfelt thanks to T&TEC and the Sports and Physical Education Department (SPED) for their dedication and contribution to this project. The university looks forward to many more successful partnerships, continuing to illuminate the path for its students and community members.
Concluding the auspicious event, the Maracas Community Combined and USC’s President’s XI faced off in an exhilarating cricket match, with the Maracas Community emerging as the champions. This thrilling conclusion served as a fitting celebration of the new lights and the community spirit they symbolize.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter
USC Expands State-of-the-Art Healthcare Education Facilities with AdventHealth Partnership
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In a significant step towards bolstering healthcare education in Trinidad, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) has announced a major expansion and modernization of its Nursing & Allied Health Department. Located on the ground floor of the USC Auditorium, these new facilities will now feature cutting-edge resources essential for training future healthcare professionals. This development comes as the university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program continues to grow, establishing itself as a flagship offering with application numbers consistently surpassing current capacity.
A key driver behind this expansion is a strategic collaboration with AdventHealth in Orlando, Florida. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare education, providing USC with vital medical equipment and supplies that will significantly enhance the learning experience for nursing students.
The generous donation from AdventHealth includes a wide array of advanced medical training tools and supplies. Among the key items are rolling medical storage carts, Heart Start AED Trainers, Laerdal AED Trainers, and a range of CPR manikins tailored for both adult and pediatric resuscitation. Additionally, sophisticated simulators such as the Megacode Kid and birthing simulators will offer students realistic, hands-on training scenarios.
Further contributions include a variety of essential medical supplies, from N95 masks and sterile gauze pads to surgical gloves and IV administration sets. This comprehensive collection of resources ensures that USC’s facilities will be equipped to offer a robust, practical education that meets contemporary healthcare standards.
USC’s initiative to upgrade its facilities is a testament to its commitment to providing high-quality education that keeps pace with the evolving landscape of healthcare. The enhanced Nursing & Allied Health Facilities will not only cater to the growing number of applicants but also elevate the educational standards, aligning them with international best practices.
As the university prepares to implement these advancements, the anticipation among faculty and students is palpable. The new resources will enable more interactive and practical learning experiences, equipping USC graduates with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their future careers.
This partnership with AdventHealth exemplifies the impact of collaborative efforts in the educational sector, fostering growth and innovation. As USC moves forward with these improvements, it continues to set a benchmark for healthcare education in the region, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare industry.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter