As the University of the Southern Caribbean prepares for its Centennial, the continued development of the Ladies Dorm Residence Hall reflects a meaningful investment in the future of the institution and its students.
Long regarded as one of the campus’s unfinished structures, the residence hall has now become a priority as USC works to strengthen its facilities and enhance the student experience ahead of its next century. Its renewed progress represents vision put into action, guided by collaboration, generosity, and a shared commitment to educational excellence.
Recently, a team of 12 volunteers traveled to the University of the Southern Caribbean’s main campus in Trinidad to assist with the ongoing construction of the annex. Comprised of both men and women, many from New York City, the group came together not as part of any formal organization, but simply as friends of USC. Led by Martin John, a New York resident originally from Grenada, the volunteers graciously donated their time, skills, and expertise at no cost to the university.
Their decision to serve was intentional. They chose USC because they believe deeply in the institution’s mission and its impact on future generations. Working diligently each day, often up to 6:00pm, the team has approached the project with passion, dedication, and a genuine spirit of service.
Since arriving on campus, the volunteers have made significant progress. Their work has included constructing walls, forming individual rooms within the annex, and bringing the structure from its foundation up to the building’s beams. Each completed task moves the ladies residence hall closer to becoming a functional and welcoming space for female students.
USC President, Dr. Colwick Wilson, shared that the completed Ladies Residence Hall will serve multiple purposes, including housing for the Dean of Women, a worship hall, and a lounging area for female residents. These additions are expected to greatly enhance the residential and spiritual experience of women on campus.
USC President Dr Colwick Wilson (left) stands with volunteer leader Martin John (centre) and Dr Deleise Cole-Wilson, wife of Dr Wilson (right), at the Ladies Residence Hall construction site.
For the volunteers, the project has been both demanding and deeply rewarding. Martin John explained that his passion lies in responding wherever the call to help arises. Despite the intensity of the work, he shared that the team has truly enjoyed the experience. According to him, the most fulfilling part has been the work itself, seeing visible progress each day and knowing they are contributing to something meaningful. While the team wished they could have stayed longer to complete the building, they expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the project and pride in how far the construction has advanced.
Beyond the worksite, the volunteers have also felt warmly embraced by the USC community. They fondly reflected on the hospitality they experienced, from meaningful interactions with students and staff to savoring local Trinidadian cuisine, enjoying fresh coconut water, and exploring different areas of the island. These moments enhanced and brought joy to their time on campus.
Looking ahead, the volunteers are excited about the impact the completed residence hall will have on student life. They envision it becoming a safe, welcoming environment where female students can live, worship, connect, and thrive. Knowing that this space will contribute positively to the USC experience is one of the reasons the team is so grateful to have played a role in its development.
As construction continues, heartfelt appreciation is extended to the volunteers, as well as to alumni, donors, and friends whose generosity has made this project possible. Their combined support ensures that USC continues to grow as a place where students are empowered, supported, and inspired.
At the end of their time at USC, the volunteers left knowing that their contribution, both in labor and in spirit, will help propel generations of USC women forward. They leave proud to have helped transform an unfinished structure into a space that will uplift, support, and serve students for years to come.
