Words from Our Chancellor
Joint Centre for Leadership....
UWI Faculty of Sport
Class of 2016...
Welcome to The UWI Alumni Family!
AUGUST - OCTOBER 2016
UWI CONNECT
GRADUATION 2016
The UWI Graduation Ceremonies were held on the four campuses and all the Valedictorians were excellent. Here is an excerpt from the UWI Cave Hill Valedictorian Dominique Lovell‘s speech at the 5:00 p.m. ceremony on Oct 15, 2016.
"We came to the UWI for an education, but found a home. We found our homes in the various halls of residence, where we learnt that ‘it is not you, not me, but we’. We found our homes in the volunteerism and outreach groups... we have developed tremendously and have become national, regional and global citizens. The indelible friendships we have formed with persons from throughout the region are sufficient evidence CARICOM is a living and breathing reality... Future mountain-movers and boundary-breakers, as proud bearers of the light rising from the West, I agree with the words of the late Professor the Hon. Rex Nettleford, as ‘UWI is arguably one of our greatest gifts to ourselves’. ... Go change and light up your world!” (Edited) Dominique is now a UWI STAT Alumni Ambassador.
Dominique Lovell delivering the Valedictory Address at the UWI Cave Hill Graduation Ceremony.
CONTENTS
UWI Global Giving Programme
4
News from the UWI RHQ
7
Alumni Engagement
10
V.I.P. - Very Important Pelican
11
Sports at the UWI
12
UWI STAT
13
Pelicans Soaring
16
Happenings Across the Campuses 18
2
UWI Grads on the Move
21
UWIAA News
23
Foundation Events
25
In Celebration of Their Lives
27
Global Partnerships
31
UWI CONNECT
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
The internationalisation of the UWI is the Vision of the Vice-Chancellor Sir Hilary Beckles. This Vision continued to unfold over the months of August to October 2016 as we will highlight in this issue. Many of our graduates also continued to excel in myriad ways and we are pleased to showcase various initiatives here, and to celebrate the accomplishments of several of the sons and daughters of the Pelican.
Class of 2016... Welcome to the UWI Alumni Family!
EDITORIAL TEAM Celia Davidson Francis (Editor-in-Chief), Stephanie Alleyne Bishop, Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind, Marcia Erskine, Yvonne Graham, Camile Wilson, Aileen Standard Goldson, Nicole Nation and Candice York.
SOURCES IAD - UWI Regional Headquarters, Campus and University Marketing and Communications Offices, Faculties, Departments, UWIAA, UWIMAA, Office of Administration, UWI STAT Corps, alumni and others.
Celia Davidson Francis Director of Alumni Relations, UWI Editor-in-Chief
PHOTOGRAPHY Campus photographers
PUBLISHING Stratcom Marketing Services Ltd.
UWI Connect is The University of the West Indies magazine, published quarterly for Alumni, Parents and Friends of the UWI by the Institutional Advancement Division, UWI Regional Headquarters. Reproduction, republication or redistribution of content is strictly prohibited without prior written permission of the Editor. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The University of the West Indies.
3
UWI GLOBAL GIVING PROGRAMME
WORDS FROM
OUR CHANCELLOR
On July 26, 2016 in Nassau, The Bahamas, the UWI Chancellor, Sir George Alleyne, continued his endorsement of the UWI Global Giving Programme, as he congratulated the organisers of the launch of the “Global Giving Week” in The Bahamas. There have been launches in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, New York and Washington, DC. The Chancellor noted that he is honoured to be the Global Patron of UWI Global Giving and is most importantly, a proud alumnus. He also said, “I attended the recent meeting of the Conference of Caribbean Heads of Government in Guyana where I heard repeated mention of the UWI as one example of collective action of which they are proud. I am among those who continue to argue that one of the principal areas on which we should focus in the Caribbean is what we call functional cooperation, which is cooperation in those domains that touch the lives and being of all Caribbean citizens from the Bahamas and Bermuda to Guyana, from Belize to Barbados. I refer to domains such as education and health and of course the UWI is critical in both.”
Sir George went on to note that due to changing global economics, the University has to find other sources of funds, which it has tried to do with varying degrees of success, but the fact that it has grown in terms of numbers and academic offerings in spite of this, is in large measure due to the ingenuity and assiduity of a succession of senior managers and the generosity of several persons and organisations. “It is this quest essentially for financial support that is the rationale behind the UWI Global Giving Week. The idea is to seed in the Caribbean consciousness that at least at one stated and appointed time every year there should be a concerted and concentrated focus on giving to the UWI. This effort involves alumni as well as the general public as I believe that all Caribbean citizens have a stake in the UWI. However, let me be clear that I do not wish to pit our regional institution against legitimate national ones. We all have multiple loyalties and there is no contradiction in supporting one’s national university and the regional University which is one’s Alma Mater.
I often make a distinction which I hope is not too fine. I ask our friends and well-wishers to give and I ask our alumni to give back and I do this with some degree of pride. I remind alumni that according to the University’s Statutes, one of the functions of Alumni Associations is to contribute financially to the University.” He then implored UWI alumni to give back to their Alma Mater for the following five reasons. 4
UWI GLOBAL GIVING PROGRAMME
WORDS FROM OUR CHANCELLOR (cont’d)
1.SELF-INTEREST:
4.COLLATERAL IMPACT:
A degree is like an investment in a company. The value and reputation of one’s degree is enhanced if the university maintains and increases its standing academically and thus contributions help to ensure that.
When universities seek funding from foundations or similar sources, they are asked how many of their alumni give. It may be no coincidence that Princeton University where 60% of its alumni donate, has the fourth largest endowment of universities in the United States of America, at almost 23 billion dollars.
2.REPUTATION:
5.GRATITUDE:
Agencies which rank universities include the number of alumni who donated in their metrics. Thus the international reputation and standing of the UWI depends in some measure on the number of alumni who give back.
The benefit from the internal warm glow and selfsatisfaction that comes from giving.
3.PHILANTHROPY:
Sir George notes that giving does not only mean money. There are myriad forms of giving back such as e-mentorship, advice, support, one-on-one campus mentorship and more. His final thought...
In a way, all of us who pride ourselves as being sons and daughters of the Pelican, even though some of our funding came from private sources, must recognise that our education was heavily subsidised from the public purse. We can give back so that others, especially those less fortunate than we were, may benefit.
“There is a saying of doubtful origin which goes like this: Blessed is he who gives without remembering and he who receives without forgetting. I wish to plagiarise and change not only the gender to say; Blessed are they who remember to give, as there will be many who will never forget their gift.”
A CHAPTER VIEWPOINT SHARED...
The University of the West Indies is truly an iconic institution that is anchored in the Caribbean and endowed with an impressive global reach by way of its many graduates. My University – our University, is seeking to make a bold step into the future in an effort to sustain and advance its work of educating our regional people to go out into the region and the world to do extraordinary things.
Alumni, the UWI Global Giving Programme is the perfect opportunity for you to ‘get on board and get involved’. Your support at this time is invaluable. No matter where you are, your personal contribution to this initiative will be greatly appreciated. Please visit www.uwi.edu/giving to make your support a reality. Thank you for your support! UWI – foremost in our hearts! Philip Floyd Chandler (Class of 2001) President - UWIAA Barbados Chapter
5
UWI GLOBAL GIVING PROGRAMME
FOCUS ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
The Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology at UWI Mona, Professor Paul Reese, and his team have a wonderful vision to share - one that they hope will excite alumni and other donors. Help is needed to see this vision become a reality. Here are 3 worthwhile projects that you may consider supporting:
solutions, new products and new companies over the next five years. Needed: US$2.5 Million - your donation WILL help!
INSTRUCTION: Supporting the creation of new interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programmes tackling critical regional developmental priorities. This includes expanding and creating programmes in Food Sustainability, Climate Change, Energy, Hazard and Risk Reduction, IT and Telecommunications, and Natural Products. Needed: US$5 Million - your donation WILL help!
INFRASTRUCTURE: Essential overhaul of Faculty buildings, facilities and equipment to assist governments and public sectors to achieve the Science and Technology driven growth and development goals of the Caribbean region by 2025, and to provide trained professionals to guide the research, implementation and building out of the strategy. Needed: US$12.5 Million - your donation WILL help!
If you wish to give to the Faculty of Science and Technology at Mona or at any of the other UWI campuses for similar Science and Technology projects, kindly indicate in the designation box online at www.uwi.edu/giving or include in a note with your cash or cheque which you may drop off at the Office of Finance of the campus nearest you. You may also give to Science and Technology through the Campus Endowment Funds, the American Foundation for the UWI and the British Foundation for the UWI.
INNOVATION: Fostering a new generation of Science based Entrepreneurs by developing an ecosystem to allow for the exploration and commercialisation of bold new ideas and novel solutions that support regional development and create global impact. This will encourage the further development of faculty and student projects and research outputs to create new
6
NEWS FROM THE UWI RHQ
JOINT CENTRE FOR LEADERSHIP AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT LAUNCHED
On September 20, 2016, the State University of New York (SUNY) and The University of the West Indies announced the establishment of the UWI-SUNY Centre to “build on areas identified in previous UWI-SUNY analyses while also including research relevant to democratic participation, leadership and governance, with a focus on solutions to specific problems constraining the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals”. The Centre will be governed by an advisory board consisting of academic experts, foundation and development professionals and administrative leaders from the UWI and SUNY. It will begin operations at 325 Hudson Street in Manhattan, one of SUNY Empire State College’s three New York City locations. Joint teams of UWI and SUNY expert teams will take a multi-disciplinary approach and draw on external expertise as necessary in order to advance the goals of creation of a master’s programme in leadership and sustainable development; solutions-oriented research; student advocacy and mobilisation of the Caribbean Diaspora; establishment of an expert network, and facilitation of a think tank.
The Commonwealth and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have given strong support for the concept of the Centre. UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles noted that the Centre is “part of the programme of international engagement that enables the UWI to play an active developmental role among the wider Caribbean community”. 7
NEWS FROM THE UWI RHQ
2016 HONORARY DEGREES
The following persons (pictured below) were conferred with Honorary Degrees during the 2016 Graduation Ceremonies across the four UWI campuses. The degrees were awarded by Chancellor Sir George Alleyne and the ceremonies kicked off at the Open Campus. Persons of eminence in the arts and sciences or other fields of intellectual endeavour, or those who have made outstanding regional or international contributions are conferred with Honorary Degrees at the graduation ceremonies. The UWI welcomed the Honorary Graduates to the Alumni Family.
Cave Hill Campus
Open Campus
(October 15, 2016)
(October 8, 2016)
Dr. Sir Prince Ramsey – DSc
Dr. Carissa Etienne – DSc
Sir Trevor Carmichael – LLD
Richard Anthony Best – DLitt
Dr. Carol Jacobs – DSc
St. Augustine Campus (October 20-22, 2016)
Reverend Daniel Teelucksingh – LLD
Professor K. E. Bingsheng – DLitt
Anthony Williams – DLitt
Lorna Goodison – DLitt
Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce – LLD
Mona Campus
(October 28-29, 2016)
UWI PARTNERS WITH THE CARIBBEAN MARITIME INSTITUTE
Dr. Fritz Pinnock, the Executive Director of the Caribbean Maritime Institute, and UWI Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles signed a Memorandum of Understanding on September 8, 2016. This will facilitate capacity building, joint research and expanded programme offerings to meet the growing demands of the job market and will include programme development, instructional resource sharing, as well as teaching and research. Capacities across both institutions will be augmented and will also contribute significantly to nation building in Jamaica and across the Caribbean. Programming for this will take place via the UWI Open Campus which offers both online and face-to-face programming. 8
NEWS FROM THE UWI RHQ
NEW GM FOR UWI PRESS
years and has a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the College of Charleston, a Master of Arts in Anthropology and a PhD in Geography and Anthropology from Louisiana State University. He has experience in scholarly publishing and was Senior Acquisitions Editor at the University of Alabama Press and Acquisitions Editor at Louisiana State University Press. The UWI Press publishes books in fourteen academic disciplines, particularly Caribbean history, Caribbean cultural studies, Caribbean literature, gender studies, education and political science.
The University of the West Indies Press has a new General Manager, Dr. Joseph B. Powell who began on August 1, 2016. He plans to increase the presence of the UWI Press in the Association of American University Presses, and to acquire more North American-based scholarship on the Caribbean, particularly work by Caribbean Diaspora scholars.
He is looking forward to the UWI Press continuing to publish books from the English-speaking Caribbean, and is also looking at potential collaborative opportunities with scholars and publishers in the Spanish-speaking Caribbean, Latin America and North America. He succeeds Linda Speth who retired after holding the post for the past 16 years.
Founded in 1992, the Press has a distinguished reputation in Caribbean academic scholarship and has over 350 books in print, of which 120 are available in the Kindle and Kobo stores.
Powell has been a scholar of the Caribbean for over 20
The UWI Press 24th Anniversary and Author Awards Ceremony took place on October 8, 2016 in St. Kitts and Nevis. UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles spoke in his official capacity and was honoured as one of this year’s celebrated authors. UWI Press General Manager Dr. Joseph Powell noted that, “The UWI Press will focus on delivering superlative content on, and in the Caribbean, through a variety of new forms and media that will always include the traditional ‘book’ form". A significant achievement of the Press recognised was a collaborative database project with the St. Augustine Campus’ Alma Jordan Library to grant free staff and student access to Caribbean authored e-books.
New Director of the Institute for International Relations
Professor Jessica Byron has been appointed Director of the Institute for International Relations (IIR), at the UWI St. Augustine Campus with effect from August 1, 2016. She holds a PhD in Political Science (International Relations) from the University of Geneva, Switzerland (1990), a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations from the UWI, St. Augustine Campus (1979) and a BA in French and Spanish (First Class Honours) from the UWI Cave Hill Campus (1978). Prior to her appointment at IIR, Professor Byron, an international relations specialist was a Professorial Fellow for one year at the UWI Mona Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES). She is also the former Head of the Department of Government, The University of the West
Indies, Mona, from 2010 to 2013 and a former UWI Coordinator of a tripartite BSc/MSc programme in Politics and International Cooperation involving the UWI, Universite Antilles-Guyane and the University of Bordeaux IV. Coupled with her new role, she currently serves as Visiting Lecturer in the graduate programme on International and Comparative Politics at the Universite Antilles-Guyane and is a member of the CLACSO Working Group on Crisis, Response and Alternatives in the Caribbean. Her research interests include Caribbean and Latin American regionalism and small states/societies in the global political economy. She has written over 50 refereed research-based/scholarly publications including book chapters, journal articles, technical reports and book reviews and short monographs.
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ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Pelican Talks is a new initiative to promote interactive and positive discourse about a variety of topics. The first was with Lisa Cummins, the Director of UWI Consulting Limited, who gave insights about her career as well as her vision to take the company to new heights. On October 27 we welcomed Marlon James, the 2015 Man Booker Prize Winner who spoke to us about his life’s journey, his inspiration and his writing. You can go to the links below to hear the conversations if you missed them or just to tune in again! Lisa Cummins - https://goo.gl/5O5Brs Marlon James - https://goo.gl/pHnsXX
UPCOMING ON “PELICAN TALKS” Save the date: January 12, 2017 at 12 noon (Jamaica time) Discover more about Kemal Brown - Founder and CEO of Digita Global Marketing and Accume International.
Kemal Brown 10
V.I.P. - VERY IMPORTANT PELICAN
THE RT. HON. SIR KENNEDY SIMMONDS
First living National Hero of the Caribbean
The Governor General of St. Kitts and Nevis announced the conferment of the title of National Hero on a distinguished graduate of the UWI (Mona Medical Sciences) Dr. The Rt. Excellent and the Rt. Honourable Sir Kennedy Simmonds. The Rt. Hon. Sir Kennedy Simmonds is an outstanding UWI graduate and true Pelican. He is considered to be the Father of a Nation: St. Kitts and Nevis. He graduated from the UWI Faculty of Medical Sciences in 1962 and went on to form the People's Action Movement (P.A.M.) political party in 1963. He became leader of the twin island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis in 1979 and the first Prime Minister of the independent nation in 1983. His crowning achievement to date is his appointment to the Order of National Hero. He is the First living person to achieve this honour, an esteemed Pelican Soaring to the greatest heights!
11
SPORTS AT THE UWI
UWI FACULTY OF SPORT IN 2017
On September 30, 2016, the UWI Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles announced that a Faculty of Sport will come on stream in 2017. The last new Faculty, that of Law, was introduced in 1970. Sir Hilary noted that all four UWI campuses will offer training ranging from Certificate to Master’s programmes in the pedagogy of sport. He also noted that the Caribbean excels in producing many sportsmen and sportswomen. “We believe that this Caribbean world is entitled to a Faculty of Sport because this is one of our greatest cultural achievements. The University’s time has come to achieve a faculty construct to ensure that we research, discuss, narrate, film, study and look at government policy leaving nothing to chance. The Faculty of Sport is one of the ways the UWI is moving to secure the Legacy of the Caribbean.”
12
UWI STAT
"HANDS AND HEARTS FOR HAITI - JAMAICA” UWI STAT Mona
The National Youth Council of Jamaica (NYCJ), the Jamaica Youth Ambassadors Programme (JaVAP), and the CARICOM Youth Ambassadors - Jamaica (CYA - Jamaica) in partnership with The University of the West Indies (Mona) Students Today Ambassadors Tomorrow (UWI STAT), Jamaica Union of Tertiary Students (JUTS) and the National Secondary Students' Council (NSSC), have embarked on a coordinated national youth-led approach to facilitate a response to the Haiti post Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts. The project has been dubbed "HANDS AND HEARTS FOR HAITI - JAMAICA”: A coalition of Youth Leaders offering practical assistance to Haiti in its post Hurricane Matthew recovery process. Each partner organisation has committed to leading the collection of different categories of items and cash, as per the specified needs of our brothers and sisters in Haiti, as they seek to “get back on their feet". They are all seeking to assist in a unified way, so the effort can be one of strength and substance via this coordinated approach. The Project Management Team of the Hands and Hearts for Haiti - Jamaica initiative will send items and cash to Haiti, through the Office of Disaster, Preparedness and Emergency Management. The group anticipates continued support as they make a difference in the lives of Haitians.
UWI STAT Cave Hill
The Cave Hill Corps took part in the national march in Bridgetown in honour of Education Month, hosted by the Ministry of Education, to represent the UWI. This was a largely successful event in stimulating UWI pride and togetherness as well as UWI STAT fervour. The Corps also participated in a youth development expo hosted by the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) on October 5. Members of the Corps spoke to local youth on the importance of the UWI and UWI STAT’s work and connected with other youth development organisations in Barbados. The UWI STAT volunteers also engaged in training sessions put on by the BYDC on the day. The Cave Hill Corps engaged with BICO Ltd. to start lobbying for the implementation of environmentally friendly, compostable food/drink containers and eating utensils on the Cave Hill Campus. BICO Ltd. supplies products from Vegware, which is an English-based company manufacturing culinary products made from sugar cane and corn starch. The aim is to introduce these products to the Campus cafeteria by advocating through the Office of Student Services and the Principal’s Office. The annual Footprints Campaign was launched to encourage students to begin the tradition of giving back to the UWI. The Corps also helped to run the Graduation booth at the gown collection location. Ambassadors at the booth encouraged graduates to join the Alumni Association and purchase UWI and UWI STAT memorabilia.
UWI STAT AMBASSADORS, AMBASSADORS DESIGNATE AND ExECUTIVE MEMBERS
Ambassadors designate express their opinion on youth stereotypes and activism. Photo credits: Shafel McDowall, Hakeem Thompson and Simone Delzin
13
UWI STAT
UWI STAT: Leadership incubator
As it celebrates its 10th Anniversary, the UWI STAT Corps is becoming known as a Leadership Incubator. The members continue to excel and prove their leadership potential with many receiving Rhodes Scholarships, Chevening and other scholarships and national awards such as Prime Ministers’ Youth Awards. These young professionals not only act as Ambassadors and advocate for the regional institution but also for the UWI campus where they obtain their degrees. Upon graduation they become Alumni Ambassadors and transition into a different role as they continue to liaise with the Director of Alumni Relations for the UWI. A “new” Alumni Ambassador (he finished in May 2016) is Chevano Baker who won the University of Birmingham and Jamaica National Foundation Legacy Scholarship, to study for a one year Master’s degree in Financial Economics at the University of Birmingham. He has just started to pursue a Master of Science in Financial Economics.
UWI STAT Mona names Corporate Champion
The UWI STAT (Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow) Vice-Chancellor’s Ambassador Corps represents the UWI Vice-Chancellor on all four UWI campuses and each Corps promotes their respective campus and the entire institution regionally and internationally. They encourage their student peers to "give back" and promote involvement in alumni relations, as well as "connectivity" and engagement with their respective campuses and the UWI Alumni Association (UWIAA).
Mr. Courtney Campbell, the President and CEO of the Victoria Mutual Building Society is the Corporate Champion for the UWI STAT Mona Corps. He will meet the current Ambassadors, act as a mentor and advisor to the group, sharing leadership and professional tips and experiences and will attend UWI STAT events when possible. He will also facilitate the interaction of the Corps with other UWI graduates at his institution to share “real world” work knowledge, shadowing, professional tips and the like. He will facilitate the expansion of the networking sphere of the Corps through the introduction of other influential experts and leaders to expand the “real world” knowledge of the Ambassadors. The Mona Ambassadors look forward to working with him as he lends his significant expertise and knowledge to this select group of young Caribbean nationals, as they strive to have a positive impact on their communities and nations in the future. 14
UWI STAT
UWI STAT BRANCHES OUT IN TENTH YEAR Entrepreneurship. A Partnership Agreement was thus signed in order for work to begin in November 2016. A formal MOU will be signed in due course. These three groups will work collaboratively to protect and promote the interests of the Caribbean globally. They will ensure impactful results are attained for the Caribbean on a global level in the short to medium term through interactions with regional and global organisations and leadership.
The UWI STAT regional Corps attended the 4th Caribbean Youth Leaders’ Summit in Belize City from September 26-30, 2016 under the theme - “Agenda 2030: Caribbean Youth Development - From Rhetoric to Action”. There were over 100 participants from 20 countries. Three UWI STAT Presidents (Cave Hill, Mona and St. Augustine) and their three UWI STAT Vice Presidents of CARICOM, as well as a UWI STAT Alumni Ambassador (a Vincentian who is pursuing his Master’s degree at Mona and is the Deputy Chairman and Coordinator, Commonwealth Youth Council, Caribbean and Americas Standing Committee) - a total of seven persons - were able to attend. They made valuable contributions and benefitted greatly from the various presentations and exchanges. The Victoria Mutual Building Society and the United Nations Population Fund graciously sponsored some attendees.
Climate smart agriculture to improve productivity and reduce climate impact, promotion of job creation through tech-driven enterprise and promotion of renewable energy sources (wind, water and solar) and similar initiatives will be sought. Celia Davidson Francis (UWI STAT), Mr. Lawrence Muli, Youth Affairs Division Programme Officer of the Commonwealth Secretariat (CYC) and Tijani Christian, Chair of CRYC will have an “oversight role” to ensure that the Partnership also builds a cadre of young leaders who have benefitted from role model and hands-on experience to help create a strong Caribbean operating in a global environment, thereby ensuring the region will have a group of young leaders ready to take up the mantle.
While in Belize, UWI STAT, the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC) and the Caribbean Regional Youth Council (CRYC) agreed to partner at the Advocacy and Policy levels and to focus initially on Environment, Energy and
Lawrence Muli and Celia Davidson Francis
Celia Davidson Francis with UWI STAT Presidents and Vice Presidents from three campuses.
Participants by the Belize sign in Belize City.
Celebrating the Caribbean
15
PELICANS SOARING
Dr. Alison Gajadhar
Saint Lucian Dr. Alison Selina Gajadhar has mixed science and service to her country in her varied career. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree with First Class Honours in Pure Chemistry and Food Chemistry from the UWI (Mona), which she had the privilege to earn under a European Development Fund Scholarship. She was the proud recipient of the University Dean’s Prize for best performance in the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences in all three campuses. Subsequently, she was awarded the UWI University Scholarship where she continued to pursue her passion and attained the Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry with High Commendation from the UWI in 1999. She then went to the University of Durham, England, where she pursued a post-doctoral fellowship in Chemistry. Dr. Gajadhar has co-authored at least 4 papers on her research work, all of which have been published in renowned scientific journals.
Her other qualifications include a Certificate in Chemical Metrology, an Advanced Certificate in Quality Management and Productivity from the Productivity Standards Board Academy of Singapore and a Certificate in Project Management from the Project Management Institute of Pennsylvania. She has served in various capacities in both the public and private sectors. From 2001-2007 she served as Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards with responsibility for defining the strategic direction of the Bureau. She then lectured on Quality Management for the Advanced Certificate Level Programme for Project Management Professionals. She also served as Special Adviser on Technical Barriers to Trade for the CARICOM-Canada Trade Negotiations, and as the CARICOM Change Driver for Saint Lucia. In the international arena, she participated actively through 16
PELICANS SOARING Governor-General. In 2012, Dr. Gajadhar re-joined the Government of Saint Lucia in the position of Permanent Secretary in which she continues to serve.
her work in the International Organisation for Standardisation Committee for Developing Countries, during her tenure at the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards.
She has also served on a number of public and private sector Boards of Directors both at the national and regional levels, not only as an ordinary member, but also in senior capacities of Chair and Vice-Chair.
Her private sector experience came in the form of being Founder and Managing Director of Ecosun Inc. solar water heating company and AMK Inc. beverage manufacturing plant.
Most importantly, Dr. Gajadhar is an avid home-maker and a very proud mother of three beautiful girls, Koeba, Maquia and Aleena.
From 2007-2011, she served as an Independent Senator in the Parliament of Saint Lucia, appointed by the
Dr. Henry Lowe UWI Alumnus and eminent scientist and researcher Dr. Henry Lowe received the Inter-American Development Bank’s Local Innovator Award on October 24, 2016. Dr. Lowe's cancer research has already received international recognition and he is recognised for his innovative use of the Jamaican Ball Moss, a plant in which he has found promising potential for cancer treatment and as a neuro-protective agent for diseases like Parkinson's. He has also developed nutraceutical and pharmaceutical products from the plant.
Former positions include Permanent Secretary for the Government of Jamaica, and President & CEO of Blue Cross of Jamaica. He is the founder and Executive Chairman of the Environmental Health Foundation Group of Companies. Along with Drs. Manley West and Albert Lockhart, Dr. Lowe is perhaps best know for developing the first commercial product from Ganja for the treatment of glaucoma.
Dr. Henry Lowe specialises in medicinal chemistry. He has given over 50 years of service in the fields of science and technology, energy, the environment, wellness and health sciences nationally, regionally and internationally since graduating from The University of the West Indies, Mona. His work was recognised with the award of Order of Distinction (Commander Class) in 1982, by the Government of Jamaica. He is not only a scientist, but also a public servant, author, educator and successful entrepreneur. Dr. Lowe received his Bachelor of Science (Hons.) from the UWI, Mona, as well as the following: University of Sydney, (M.Sc.), Manchester University, (Ph.D.), Bolton Institute of Technology - England, (Diploma Technical Education), Harvard University and M.I.T., U.S.A. (Post Doctoral Studies).
Dr. Lowe has published over 20 books and over 100 articles in the areas of science, technology and the health sciences for journals and the popular press. Dr. Lowe holds many awards and accolades, including the Jamaica Observer Business Leader Award (2006) and the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) Living Legend Award (2012); and is a member of the prestigious American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). 17
HAPPENINGS ACROSS THE CAMPUSES
Mona
Rastafari Studies Conference and General Assembly The third Rastafari Studies Conference and General Assembly was hosted by the Rastafari Studies Centre – Special Project, Office of the Principal, UWI Mona in collaboration with the Rastafari Community from August 14–21, 2016. The conference was held at the Mona and Western Jamaica Campuses of the UWI. The theme was: The African Millennium in Perspective: Rastafari Business Enterprise Development.
Book Launch
35th Annual West Indian Literature Conference
October 6, 2016
The Department of Literatures in English at Mona, in association with the Western Jamaica Campus hosted the 35th annual West Indian Literature Conference at the Holiday Inn Resort, Montego Bay from October 6-8, 2016 under the theme “Archiving Caribbean Literature and Popular Culture”. Professor of Literary and Cultural Studies and Keynote speakers included National Archivist, Mr. John Aarons O.D., Dr. Carolyn Cooper, Department of Literatures in English, UWI and Professor of Cinematic Studies, Indiana University, Dr. Terri Francis.
“Understanding the Caribbean Enterprise: Insights from MSMEs and Family Owned Businesses” by Lawrence A. Nicholson, Jonathan G. Lashley
18
HAPPENINGS ACROSS THE CAMPUSES
Cave Hill
Salises Talks
Lecture Series in Commemoration of Barbados’ 50th Anniversary of Nationhood
October 19, 2016 An insight into “Caribbean Women & Crime: Recent Findings on Pathways into Offending and Incarceration among Dutch Caribbean Women”. Presentation by Dr. Katharina J. Joosen
under the Distinguished Patronage of Professor V. Eudine Barriteau, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Principal, UWI Cave Hill October 11, 2016 “Craftsmen of our fate”: The Social Instruments of our Craft Sir George Alleyne
Graduate Forum October 21, 2016
Department of Language, Linguistics and Literature Seminar Presentation entitled: Violence as a Leadership Construct: The Novels of George Lamming and Times Literary Supplement Reviews” by Margaret Gill, PhD Candidate, Literatures in English.
October 20, 2016 “Strict guardians of our heritage”: Barbados’ Cultural Development - A Cultural Policy Agenda Dr. Marcia Burrowes
Panel Discussion October 12, 2016
The Department of Government, Sociology, Social Work and Psychology in collaboration with the Justice for Walter Rodney Committee presented “Reflections on the Commission of inquiry into the death of Walter Rodney: What Next?
Minute Writing Workshop October 12, 13 & 21, 2016
Institute for Gender & Development Studies, Nita Barrow Unit, presented a Minute Writing Workshop for persons wishing to enhance their minute writing skills and persons wishing to gain insight into the process of minute writing.
Research Week
October 17 - 22, 2016 Centering the Barbados Nation: Mapping the Research path at 50 and Beyond. Poster displays by all faculties and the Cave Hill Campus in the Community.
Debate
October 19, 2016 The Department of Government, Sociology, Social Work and Psychology in association with former Minister of Parliament Mr. Hamilton Lashley presented a Session of the Barbados Senior Parliament. The topic debated was: “Should Home Schooling be continued in Barbados?” 19
HAPPENINGS ACROSS THE CAMPUSES
St. Augustine
The Dean of the UWI St. Augustine's Faculty of Law, Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine has been elected as the new President of the Trinidad and Tobago's Family Planning Association. The International Caribbean Conference “The Caribbean, Melting Pot of the Americas: From Upheaval and Origins to the Historical Future and its Representations�, took place from October 13-15 at the Centre for Language Learning. Patrick Chamoiseau was a guest speaker, as well as Earl Lovelace and Professor J. Michael Dash. The aim was to understand the Caribbean beyond linguistic constraints or cultural cohesiveness.
Open Campus
Dr. Damian Eisenghower Greaves (PhD) was the Keynote Speaker for the Saint Lucia Country Conference held at Bay Gardens Hotel from October 26-28, 2016. Dr. Greaves brought a wealth of experience and academic qualifications in the areas of Health Management and Policy, Public Health, Sociology and Education and addressed the conference theme, "Collegial Information Sharing for Sustainable Development".
The UWI entered a renewed contract with the Government of Montserrat to provide management and support for the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) which conducts monitoring and research activities on the Soufriere Hills Volcano. The new monitoring contract runs for five years and was signed on September 13, 2016 by Professor Dale Webber, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Graduate Studies and Research at the UWI and by Her Excellency, Elizabeth Anne Carriere OBE, Governor of Montserrat. The new 2016/2017 Open Campus Guild of Students Executive was named. Their Induction Ceremony was held on Friday, September 9 in Jamaica, with representatives from seven Caribbean countries. The new OC Guild President is Mr. Howard Brown. 20
UWI GRADS ON THE MOVE Kizanne James is the recipient of a 2016 Chevening Scholarship. She was also selected to be the World Contraception Day Ambassador and attended the United Nations General Assembly. She will attend the University of Southampton, one of the Russell Group of Universities (Ivy League of the UK) to pursue an MSc Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care.
Dr. Neilia-Kay McGill has joined Baptist Medical Group multi-specialty physician network. McGill earned her medical degree at The University of the West Indies, Mona, and received her Master of Science in Clinical Dermatology from Cardiff University in Wales. She completed her residency at Howard University Hospital in Washington, D.C., and her Fellowship from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo: Pensacola News Journal)
Terrance Clarke is the new General Manager of National Enterprises Limited, an investment holding company. He has experience in the field of private equity, portfolio management, investment banking and general management. He has been Portfolio Manager for a number of funds, as well as of structured investment banking facilities for sovereign and state-owned companies throughout the region. He has also overseen energy sector clients for a large corporate bank. His previous experience includes service at the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission, AIC Securities Limited, RBTT Bank Limited and Scotiabank Trinidad and Tobago Limited. His academic qualifications include a BSc and MSc Economics from The University of the West Indies and an MBA (Finance) from York University, Canada.
For the third consecutive year Dr. Christopher Walker has been selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. An award-winning robotic surgeon, Dr. Walker is doubleboard certified in Urogynaecology and OB/GYN as well as a member of the International Society of Cosmetic Gynaecology and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons. He is a National Trainer and Proctor, teaching other physicians surgical techniques that include the latest in urogynaecology and cosmetic gynaecology procedures. Dr. Walker completed Medical School at The University of the West Indies Faculty of Medical Sciences, Mona where he attained a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. Dr. Walker is one of the few doctors who has advocated for victims of mesh, acting as an expert witness and successfully removing vaginal mesh to help restore a woman's quality of life.
Larry Quinlan, a distinguished national of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis was the featured speaker at the Prime Minister’s Independence Lecture Series at the Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC) on September 12, 2016. Mr. Quinlan is a Principal at Deloitte LLP, where he serves as Global Chief Information Officer (CIO) and sits on Deloitte’s U.S. Executive and Global Operating Committees. As CIO, he chairs the Global Council and has responsibility for all facets of technology including strategy, applications, infrastructure, support and execution. He has been with Deloitte since 1988 and has served in a variety of leadership roles including National Managing Principal for Process Excellence. He holds an MBA from Baruch College, City University of New York and a Bachelor of Science degree from The University of the West Indies.
Felicia Robinson is the new Director of the Department of Child and Family Services for St. Lucia. She is the former head of St. Lucia’s Human Services and Family Affairs. Originally from Barbados and “a long-term Cayman Islands resident”, she took up duties on August 4, 2016. Mrs. Robinson is proficient in financial management oversight as well as monitoring and evaluation of output performance. She has a wealth of knowledge in social work, policy and legal drafting, both technical and strategic, having worked in the field for over 20 years and in over 22 jurisdictions as a child protection and policy specialist.
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UWI GRADS ON THE MOVE Karen Ragoobirsingh is now Audit Director at KPMG Jamaica. She also serves on the Future of the Profession Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica and is the firm's Quality Performance Coordinator.
Trudy Deans has been appointed as Jamaica's Consul General to New York and assumed duties in early October. She has a solid foundation in Diaspora engagement and strong leadership and managerial skills, and was Vice Consul and Community Relations Officer at the Jamaican Consulate General in New York from 2010-2012. She holds a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management and Training from the University of Leicester, England, and a Bachelor of Science degree in International Relations and Public Administration from the UWI.
Sharon Thomas-Brown is now Audit Director at KPMG Jamaica. She was Group Manager leading 60 audit professionals and serving as a key member of the proposal quality review team.
Denzil Whyte is now the Tax Director of KPMG Jamaica. He has both a BSc in Accounting and Business and a Master’s degree in Accounting, and is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica.
Kadeem Pet-Grave is co-founder and CEO of Educatours Ja. Ltd., a Jamaican-based educational tour company powered by gamification and technology. Educatours plans and executes 'gamified' field trips (tours) and team building exercises for schools and other groups. The tours incorporate the use of mobile apps and game elements in an effort to ensure fun, engaged and experiential learning. The company began operations in January 2015 and to date, over 1,000 students have experienced Educatours’ tours and exercises. Kadeem graduated from The University of the West Indies in 2014 with a degree in Entrepreneurship. He is also a part-time high school entrepreneurship teacher.
Rochelle Stephenson is now an Audit Partner of KPMG Jamaica. She was Risk Management Partner and has over 20 years' experience with KPMG in both Kingston and Montego Bay.
Dr. Marion Blair is the new Ombudsman of Antigua and Barbuda. Dr. Blair is a former educator and a former director of the National Archives. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, specialising in History: African, West Indian, European, North and South American. She also holds a Diploma in Education, Doctor of Philosophy, West African Studies, from the University of Birmingham, England. Dr. Blair’s term of office shall be for a period of 10 years or until she attains the age 70 years, whichever occurs first.
Thank you to Our Donors We know you have already received letters of thanks but we want to acknowledge you again. To all the Alumni, Friends of the UWI and other supporters who have given to the UWI Global Giving Programme since August 1, 2016 - we deeply appreciate your contributions which will assist in improving research, infrastructure, sports facilities, programmes and in providing scholarships. We have a long way to go but we want you to know that we are grateful. Our heartfelt thanks! www.uwi.edu/giving 22
UWIAA NEWS
UWIAA Barbados Chapter
The UWI Alumni Association recently paid a visit to the new Postmaster General, alumna Mrs. Margaret Ashby, to congratulate her on becoming the first female Postmaster General in Barbados.
Council of Administration at the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in Berne, Switzerland. With the knowledge gained from the Master’s programme, Mrs. Ashby was better able to contribute to discussions in the Sustainable Development Project Group, one of the groups falling under Committee 4.
She was presented with a bouquet of flowers by President of the UWI Alumni Association, Mr. Philip Chandler, who was accompanied by Past President, Carl Farley, Vice-President, Henderson Williams and UWI Alumni Co-ordinator for the Cave Hill Campus, Roseanne Maxwell.
She advised that the advent of technology had provided other revenue streams for the postal service. The widespread e-commerce activity has resulted in an influx of parcels and packets from non-traditional markets such as Japan, Singapore and India. The post office now offers the public online and electronic bill payment service at all locations.
Mrs. Ashby noted she wishes to ensure that the employees of the post office are empowered as they adjust to the changing dynamics of the postal environment.
She said that the post office is willing to work with businesses in meeting their postal needs as they move toward becoming a more business-oriented organisation.
When asked about her UWI student experience and how it had assisted her in her role, she noted that she did a first degree in Computer Science and Management and a Master’s degree in Natural Resources Management with specialty in Climate Change. She benefitted from both and the knowledge gained assisted her while representing Barbados as Chair of Committee 4 (Cooperation and Development) of the
As their contribution to the 50th Anniversary of Independence the post office has launched a stamp exhibition, featuring stamps issued over the last 50 years including features such as “Centenarians of Barbados” and the “50th Anniversary of Independence”. 23
UWIAA NEWS
UWIAA St. Lucia Chapter
The UWIAA St. Lucia Chapter had its first Annual Church Service on September 4, 2016 at 8:00 a.m. at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Here some of the alumni who attended pose to commemorate the occasion. The Chapter held an “Alumni Meet and Greet� on August 6, 2016 as a part of their efforts to engage alumni and to facilitate their involvement with the Open Campus St. Lucia and the wider UWI family.
The UWIAA Jamaica Chapter
continues its UWI Global Giving Programme thrust. From funds raised the following were awarded: UWIAA Bursaries: J$50,000.00 each 1. Ranee Anderson 2. Oshane Haughton
UWIAA Scholarships: $ 150,000.00 each 1. Janice Alexander 2. Courtney Morris
The UWIAA Jamaica Chapter was pleased to be able to make this contribution.
UWI/Sophia Connections
Allison Fung (L), Executive Assistant to the UWI Vice-Chancellor and Sachil Shitara, Sophia graduate and MBA graduate of the UWI. Sachi now works at Toyota Jamaica.
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FOUNDATION EVENTS
Panel Discussion
INDEPENDENCE AND INTERDEPENDENCE: 50 YEARS OF NATIONHOOD IN THE CARIBBEAN
The British Foundation for The University of the West Indies (BFUWI) and the Ramphal Institute, King's College are pleased to announce the fourth panel discussion in the Dr. Eric Williams series examining issues of importance to the Caribbean and the Diaspora in London on November 16, 2016. Panellists include Professor Richard Drayton, Rhodes Professor of Imperial History at King’s College, Professor Clive Fraser of Leicester University, noted Economist, Ms. Debbie Ransome, Managing Editor of Caribbean Intelligence and Ambassador Ransford Smith, former Deputy Secretary General of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Ms. Vanessa Rizzioli, Principal of Cranwick Consulting, will moderate the discussion. The panel will consider the region’s achievements and struggles after 50 years of independence in Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago and look to the future. They will grapple with issues such as constitutional reform: the move to republic status, retention of the Privy Council, Brexit, globalisation and transformation of societies to achieve greater equality The event is free but those wishing to attend must register and present a ticket to gain admission. Registration from 6:00 p.m.
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FOUNDATION EVENTS
THE AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE UWI
New York is the place to be on Thursday, February 23, 2017. That is the date of the 20th American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) Annual Legacy Awards Gala at the prestigious Pierre Hotel in Manhattan.
The Signature Award of the Gala: the Robert Nesta “Bob� Marley Award will be given to Barbadian-born rapper, record producer and beatboxer, Doug E. Fresh, also know as the Human Beat Box. He is known to immitate drums and special effects using only his mouth, vocals and a microphone. Well known singer, Estelle, whose father is Grenadian, will receive the Caribbean Luminary Award and The Kimberly Hotel, Dennis Shipping, Finn Partners and the Door Restaurant will be recognised and receive Champions of Community Engagement Awards. The AFUWI's Mission and the Gala itself focus on securing funds for deserving UWI students, who face dire economic circumstances and who will not be able to access a college education without financial assistance. The Gala will once again be a fabulous affair, beginning with a reception at 6:00 p.m., and concluding with a Dessert Party and dancing. The Executive Director, Ann Marie Grant notes that through the AFUWI Gala the organisation has been able to successfully deliver 247 scholarships to young Caribbean students in the past five years, and thus has had a profound and positive impact on the Region. Scenes from the 2016 Gala... and the 2017 Gala will not disappoint!
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IN CELEBRATION OF THEIR LIVES Dr. Joseph St. Elmo Hall, retired Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, was one of the
first 33 medical students admitted to the University College of the West Indies (UCWI) in 1948, however he completed his degree at the University of Sheffield in the UK. Dr. Hall served the UWI with distinction for close to four decades. He was instrumental in establishing the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Cave Hill Campus and later lectured at the Mona Campus until his retirement. Dr. Hall was a member of the Cancer Society from 1968 when he was appointed Lecturer in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at The University of the West Indies. The first colposcopy machine was introduced to Jamaica by Dr. Hall in 1978, and he undertook a national two-year Pap Smear Programme, opening access at public health clinics to such services, and this intervention resulted in over 12,000 pap smears being taken.
Professor George Nicholson, one of Barbados’ leading medical professionals, devoted
his life to serving the Caribbean through medicine, specifically in the field of nephrology. He had the unenviable task of dealing with the first HIV-related infant death in Barbados. Professor Nicholson took losses such as these deeply and personally and they took their toll on him. The things that were important to Professor Nicholson were love, family and peace. Sir Errol Walrond who was one of Barbados’ leading surgeons, recalled that the late professor was crucial in inspiring a number of his students to become nephrologists, and helped in the development of dialysis services across the region. He noted that Professor Nicholson’s legacy included leading a team of surgeons in the English-speaking Caribbean’s first-ever kidney transplant.
Marianne Ramesar (nee Soares), a Jamaican-born historian, was best known for her
seminal book on “Indentureship in Trinidad, Survivors of Another Crossing: A history of East Indians in Trinidad 1880-1946”. Her works also appear in 17 publications and 134 library holdings. She had been engaged in research over two decades on her African ancestry in the Caribbean, tracing her first slave ancestor, Addo, to Ghana where she would later give birth to two of her three children. Ramesar is a part of West Indian history herself as a her name is memorialised on the monument at the Mona Campus of The University of the West Indies, recognising the University’s first cohort of students. She also served as a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Social Economic Research (ISER) at the UWI St. Augustine Campus. Her late husband, Esmond D. Ramesar, was an adult education pioneer, who also served the UWI and died in 2005. She leaves behind her son, Film Lecturer and BA Coordinator of the UWI Film Programme, Yao Ramesar.
Darron Small was a Library Assistant at the Alma Jordan Library’s West Indian
and Special Collections Division. He started at the UWI St. Augustine in 1999 and had also worked at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Library. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Visual Arts degree in 2011 and was pursuing an MPhil in Cultural Studies. He was an accomplished visual artist and his works have been featured in various local exhibitions as well as calendars produced by the Colonial Life Insurance Company (CLICO) and on the wall of the Queen’s Park Oval. He also had the honour of having his paintings presented by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to Cuban President Raúl Castro during a state visit in 2011.
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IN CELEBRATION OF THEIR LIVES Professor Bishnodat Vishnu Persaud’s visionary leadership sought to address issues of sustainable development and thus laid a foundation for the many sustainability challenges that our world faces today. He was the founding Director of the Institute for Sustainable Development, formerly The University of the West Indies Centre for the Environment and Development (UWICED) in 1992. He was the UWI’s first Chair of the Centre sponsored by the Alcan Bauxite Company in Jamaica and the first Professor for Sustainable Development. Before assuming office as Director of UWICED, he served as a Research Fellow and also Head of the Institute for Social and Economic Research (now the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies/SALISES ) at the Cave Hill Campus. He was made an Honorary Professor of the UWI when he left in 1996. Other notable achievements included serving on the Commonwealth Secretariat as Director and Head of its Economic Affairs Division for ten years. He also served as member of the United Nations Secretary General’s High Level Committee on Development Policy; as member of the UN sub-committee which suggested the classification of “Least Developed States”, and he was also an advisor to the World Bank and the Commonwealth Secretariat on Small States. He authored and co-authored many journal articles, book chapters and technical reports. Coordinator of the ISD, Dr. David Smith, expressed his personal tribute noting that, “Professor Persaud brought to the UWI a new approach and new thinking to environment and development and was able to generate a great deal of interest in sustainable development research and formed strong linkages with NGOs and civil society practitioners in the field. The Institute for Sustainable Development values highly the foundation he laid.” Nursing Alumna, Pamela Beatrice Walker
was born on January 25, 1938 in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica. She is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Bryan Maxwell Walker; her daughter, Karen Jefferson (Rodney); son, Ian Walker (Nicole); seven grandchildren, sisters, brother and a host of beloved nieces, nephews and friends. Pamela completed her nursing degree at The University of the West Indies in Jamaica. She was a Registered Nurse in the Brookdale Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in New York City for 25 years. Her love for God, her family and friends was weaved into the tapestry of her life's story. As the matriarch of the family, she hosted many family gatherings. She was an avid gardener, seamstress, knitter and baker, renowned for her beautifully decorated birthday and wedding cakes. She gave of her time and talents and often had a word of wisdom to impart. She enriched the lives of her family and friends and leaves a legacy of love and compassion.
Ingrid Brown recently completed her UWI Law degree with second class honours and was
accepted at Norman Manley Law School. She joined the staff of the Observer as a reporter after leaving the Jamaica Information Service in 2006 and rose through the ranks to the position she held at the time of her passing. Before that she worked at The Gleaner and The Star newspapers after starting her journalism career at the Jamaica Herald as a trainee reporter in 1994. Her drive to help people and unearth news from across the country made her the perfect person to start the Observer North & East, a fortnightly publication focusing on St. Thomas, St. Mary and Portland. She spearheaded that publication, travelling to the target parishes every other week while studying law. Ingrid was not only an excellent journalist, she was a wonderful human being who always cared for the less fortunate. While she loved journalism, she wanted to become a lawyer in order to help victims of abuse in particular. Many of the stories she wrote resulted in people in dire need getting help from readers, private sector companies and the State. 28
IN CELEBRATION OF THEIR LIVES Jennifer White Clark joined the then School of Continuing Studies (SCS) on May 16, 1990,
beginning her career in the office of the late Vice-Chancellor, Professor the Hon. Rex Nettleford, then the Director of the School. She was Secretary/Stenographer II in the Office of the Director, School of Continuing Studies from May 16, 1990 to May 31, 1994. She was promoted to the position of Senior Secretary, after which she was appointed Officer Manager on August 1, 2000, a position she held until October 31, 2010. With the coming of the Open Campus, she was promoted to the post of Administrative Officer in the Office of Director, Open Campus Country Sites. In addition to her duties as Administrative Officer, Jennifer briefly served as Project Manager, Universal Service Fund (USF) Project. On April 7, 2014, she was transferred to the Human Resource Department where she remained as Human Resource Officer (Jamaica) until her passing. Dr. Luz Longsworth, Principal of the Open Campus, said: “Jennifer was the backbone of the Director's Office in the SCS. Her creativity and innovativeness helped each Director to keep track of every staff member in this widely flung school. As a founding member of the Open Campus, Jennifer continued to serve and to lead by her positive example”. Mrs. Karen Ford-Warner, Campus Registrar of the Open Campus noted: “I know that the impact of her passing will reverberate not only across the Open Campus, but also the UWI and the region as a result of her long and sterling service”. Deputy Principal, UWI Open Campus, Professor Julie Meeks-Garner reflected on Jennifer’s outstanding performance during her tenure and noted that she will be missed immensely.
Gisela Magalis Gustave Ramos was born in Panama City, Panama on March 26, 1971. Gisela migrated to the United States at the age of 15 and lived in Jacksonville, North Carolina before moving to Brooklyn, New York. Later, she attended Medgar Evers College where she received an Associate’s degree in Science, then later her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and International Affairs; she also attended culinary school in Manhattan. In 1989, Gisela found the love of her life, Braulio Ramos. They were married in 1991 and were blessed with three children: Braulio Jr, Brianna and Brianis. Gisela was employed with the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) as the Office Administrator from August 2010 - September 2016. She attended New Life Cathedral where she was very involved in helping the youth. She worked with The Women in the Shepherd Shield and The Dance Ministry. She was full of life and very welcoming to everyone she met. She loved to travel and bake her well-known delicious cakes! Gisela was very hardworking and an overachiever. Among her family and friends she was known for her great sense of humour, her bright smile and a passion for making others laugh. Gisela loved her husband, children and grandson passionately. The Executive Director of the American Foundation for the UWI, Ann Marie Grant, noted that “Gisela was an invaluable member of the team who contributed to the success of all AFUWI events. Her departure from this physical instance of existence leaves a gaping void in our hearts, our minds and our souls”. The AFUWI Chairman, Mr. Lowell Hawthorne noted that Gisela’s contributions to the AFUWI “were formidable and her work ethic and love for people were remarkable”. Dr. Gerald Webb served as a full-time Lecturer in the UWI St. Augustine
Department of Engineering (formerly the Department of Civil Engineering) from 1972 - 1977. He then became a part-time Lecturer throughout the 1980s. Dr. Webb was also President of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago (APETT) from 1987 - 1988. For over 45 years, Dr. Webb worked in the design and construction of highways, airport runways and structures throughout the Caribbean and Canada and his contribution to the region will long be remembered. 29
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS
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