Student Spotlight: Nykhya Gardiner – Weaving Dreams into Reality at USC
By Ms. Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
In the vibrant tapestry of student life at the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC), Nykhya Gardiner emerges as a shining thread, weaving together passion, perseverance, and purpose. A final year English major with a Communications emphasis, Nykhya hails from the picturesque island of Tobago. Her journey at USC has been one of self-discovery, growth, and unwavering dedication to both academic excellence and holistic development.
Pictured: Ms. Nykhya Gardiner
For Nykhya, pursuing higher education at USC was not just a personal ambition—it was a dream deeply rooted in her desire for a better future. Coming from a family where higher education opportunities were scarce, Nykhya saw education as a pathway to not only improve her own life but also to uplift her family. Despite USC not being her initial plan, Nykhya believes that divine intervention led her to this path, and she wholeheartedly embraces the journey paved by destiny, not coincidence.
Engaging in Campus Life: A Multifaceted Approach
For Nykhya, contributing to campus life isn’t just a duty; it’s a calling – she seeks to enrich the student experience and foster holistic development. From lending her melodious voice to the HIS LUV Choir to showcasing her athleticism on the USC Hummers Netball Team, Nykhya’s passion knows no bounds. As the incoming Sporting Director of the ASB for the New Academic Year 2024-2025, she’s poised to make even greater strides in campus leadership.
In the realm of leadership, Nykhya’s footprint is unmistakable. From planning events as a Student Representative to orchestrating the success of USC’s Got Talent as a Stage Manager, she exudes confidence and competence. Her dedication to fostering talent and community spirit shines through in every role she undertakes.
As a Student Representative for the School of Education and Humanities, she played a pivotal role in organizing events like Olympiad, demonstrating her organizational prowess. Her contributions as the Cultural Director for the Trinidad and Tobago Club have earned accolades, including first place in each category for International Students Week 2024.
Academic Excellence and Beyond
Nykhya’s inclusion on the Dean’s List for the Academic Year 2021-2022 speaks volumes to her dedication and diligence in pursuit of excellence. Beyond the classroom, her internship at USC’s Department of Integrated Marketing & Communications (IMC) allowed her to publish articles, honing her skills under the mentorship of seasoned professionals like Ms. Simone Augustus.
USC has been more than just an academic institution for Nykhya – it’s been a nurturing ground for personal and professional growth. From overcoming her introverted nature to honing her communication, leadership and event management skills, Nykhya credits USC for helping her discover her true potential and embrace the future with confidence.
As she charts on her post-graduation journey, her career aspirations are diverse yet rooted in her passion for event planning and management. While her initial plan was to delve into Public Relations, she remains open to the possibilities that life may unfold. Armed with a wealth of experiences and skills gained at USC, she’s poised to make a lasting impact wherever life takes her.
Words of Wisdom for Fellow Scholars
Nykhya’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of higher education and campus involvement. Her advice to fellow students is simple yet profound: embrace the college experience, stay open to learning, and have faith in yourself and your journey.
In the whirlwind of academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal growth, Nykhya acknowledges the challenges of balancing it all. Her advice? Take it one step at a time, be kind to yourself, and embrace the journey, uncertainties and all.
As Nykhya Gardiner prepares to leave her mark on USC and step into the wider world beyond its campus borders, she stands as a beacon of inspiration—a testament to the transformative power of education, passion, and unwavering determination. As she continues to leave her mark on campus and beyond, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.
- Published in News, President's Newsletter, Students
SWAY 2024: Elevating Student Worker Excellence at USC
By Nadira Mohammed, Student Journalist
The La Joya sporting facility in St. Joseph was electrified with excitement and anticipation as the Student Worker Awards of the Year (SWAY) event unfolded. Themed “Elevating Excellence: Swaying in Performance,” this year’s SWAY, held on Sunday, April 28, 2024, was a spectacular showcase of talent, dedication and professionalism, masterfully orchestrated by Ms. Kichele Hernandez, ASB Director for Student Worker, and her dedicated subcommittee team.
Ms. Hernandez’s vision for SWAY was both inclusive and equitable, with the introduction of new award categories aimed at ensuring that every student worker’s achievements were duly recognized. Her opening remarks resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the value of acknowledging diverse skills and efforts.
The event featured mesmerizing performances by Ms. Shauntae Price and Ms. Ahjae Jackson, whose enchanting voices filled the air, accompanied by the captivating saxophone melodies of Mr. Jesse Schultz. Their performances added an extra layer of magic to an already enchanting evening.
The gala’s keynote speaker, Mr. Dominic Merritt, Dean of Men at USC, delivered a speech titled “Mindset to Mindshift: The Journey to Professionalism,” which captivated the audience with its inspirational words and profound insights. Dean Merritt celebrated the transformative power of student work, emphasizing its impact on individuals and communities alike. He commended the dedication and perseverance of student workers, urging them to embrace a mindset of professionalism and excellence.
Dean Merritt’s reflections on “SWAYing into Professionalism” underscored the importance of attitude in achieving greatness. He encouraged the audience to adopt a mindset rooted in faith rather than fear, urging them to pursue their goals with unwavering commitment and purpose. His speech served as a rallying cry for embracing new possibilities and redefining success on one’s own terms.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the award winners, each recognized for their outstanding contributions to the USC community:
– Academic Excellence: Edira Eugene
– Leadership Award: Julien Ferguson
– Rising Star: Allaire Johnson
– Above and Beyond: Michael Jagdharry
– Team Player: Kitwana Theophile
– Peak Performer: Joash Prowell
– All Round Consistency: Yiseth Guzman
– Most Improved: Suriel Gabriel
– Flexibility Award: Helen Cuffie
– Customer Service Representative: Alrine Peters
– Most Outstanding: Trinelle Straker
– Student Worker of the Year: Heidi Ann Cuffie
– Etiquette Award: Jounathan Peters
– Longest Worker: Shanessa Subagh
– Good Standing: Gregston Boyce
As the evening drew to a close, USC’s President, Dr. Colwick Wilson, expressed his gratitude to everyone in attendance for their unwavering support and dedication to fostering a culture of excellence at USC. Dr. Len Archer, USC’s Provost, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the invaluable role that student workers play in shaping the institution’s character and achievements.
The SWAY event was not just a celebration of individual accomplishments but also a testament to the collective spirit of excellence and dedication that defines the USC community. As the curtain fell on another successful SWAY, it left behind a lasting impression of inspiration and admiration for the remarkable achievements of USC’s student workers.
Olympiad 2024: A Triumph of Talent and Tenacity from USC’s Finest
By Simone Augustus, Corporate Communications Officer
The Hasely Crawford Stadium pulsated with the spirit of competition and camaraderie as the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) hosted its annual Olympiad on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Olympiad 2024 was a showcase of athletic prowess, teamwork, and sheer determination with teams from the School of Business & Entrepreneurship, School of Theology & Religion, School of Social Sciences, School of Science, Technology & Allied Health, School of Education & Humanities, USC South, and USC Tobago.
Despite this exhilarating event coinciding with the Eid holiday, the stands were abuzz with the energy of students, faculty, staff, families, friends, and supporters, all gathered to celebrate the sporting prowess of USC’s finest.
The festivities commenced with the ceremonial March Past, a display of USCian spirit and pride. The March Past event saw dignitaries Dr. Colwick Wilson, President of USC, Dr. Len Archer, Provost of USC, and Alderman Brian Lewis, representing His Worship Alderman Chinua Alleyne, Mayor of the City of Port of Spain, taking the eyes right salute as the teams paraded by. Alderman Brian Lewis, in his remarks, officially inaugurated the event.
Adding a dash of flair to the proceedings, El Chorro Combine’s “Addams Family,” reigning March Past Champions of the 2024 Maracas Valley Easter Sports, wowed the audience with their routine.
With 139 points, the School of Business & Entrepreneurship was crowned the March Past Winners, setting the tone for a day filled with thrilling competition, camaraderie, and celebration of athletic excellence.
Following the pomp and pageantry of the March Past, the track and field events kicked off, setting the athletes on a collision course with glory. From the adrenaline-pumping sprints to the strategic tug-of-war battles, every event showcased the participants’ speed, agility, and strength.
The competition was fierce, but it was the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health that emerged as the dominant force, clinching both the Tug of War and the coveted overall Olympiad 2024 Champions titles showcasing their unparalleled strength and teamwork.
The accolades continued as Njanu Bellamy from the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health blazed his way to victory, clinching the title of Fastest Man for the second consecutive year, while Helen Cuffie from the School of Education & Humanities showcased her speed and agility, earning the title of Fastest Woman.
Njanu Bellamy further solidified his status as a track and field powerhouse by clinching the Victor Ludorum title for track and field events, while Atiya Cummings from the School of Science, Technology & Allied Health retained the title of Victrix Ludorum.
In the realm of novelty events, Brandon Sanderson from the School of Social Sciences emerged as the Victor Ludorum, showcasing his prowess beyond the traditional track and field disciplines. Meanwhile, Kerdisha Simmons from the School of Business & Entrepreneurship dazzled spectators with her skill and finesse, earning the title of Victrix Ludorum.
As the sun set on Olympiad 2024, amidst cheers, applause, and a sense of accomplishment, one thing became abundantly clear – the true essence of the Olympiad lies not just in victory, but in the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence that unites us all.
- 1
- 2