The Fund - Issue 11

Page 1

The Fund

1


The Fund

2


Dear Friends, It has been a hot dry summer and not unlike the rest of the island, the Mona Campus has not been spared. Nonetheless, we continue to work to achieve our Mission even as we completed renovations of the historic building which houses UWIDEF’s offices. An academic year ended and another is about to commence and we are on the cusp of finalizing awards of this year’s scholarships to another group of amazing and deserving students. We are so grateful for our partners on campus who work with us to ensure that students are able to access the various scholarship opportunities. However most importantly, we thank our donors for their contributions - of money to fund awards and of time to meet all the candidates. While the selection process is ongoing we have had the privilege so far of meeting some outstanding talent. We have also met countless students who we are still unable to assist despite best efforts. Both groups give us timely motivation and remind us why we do what we do. As the start of the academic year draws near, we know there will be even more needs identified as students make last efforts to identify funding for tuition or just everyday necessities like food and accommodations. It is therefore still not too late for you to make a gift, adopt a student, or provide in-kind support We have also been working to implement a number of exciting initiatives. These include our long anticipated digital signage project which we think will dramatically enhance the way the campus shares information. We are also looking ahead to our Annual Awards Banquet that celebrates philanthropy. I encourage you to stay tuned for more information on this and other items to come! I thank you for your interest and your support and would like to welcome your feedback and ideas as we seek to be that bridge “from you, through us, for all.”

Sasha Parke-Lynch Executive Director

ABOUT UWIDEF

The UWIDEF-Mona brokers, builds and sustains relationships with UWI Mona’s friends. It provides stewardship for funds raised through major capital campaigns and projects, general endowment and planned giving.

3

Since its incorporation in 1990,

UWIDEF at Mona has implemented a number of major projects; provided grants and scholarships for both undergraduate studies and post graduate research; and established various facilities for students.

The Fund

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR


The Fund

A Vision Realized

UWIDEF and LIME Partnership Extends Reach to Boost Eye Care at the UHWI The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) Ophthalmology Department received a gift of one Slit Lamp valued at over J$1.5M from the UWI Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF) on Friday May 16, 2014. This donation was made possible through an endowment from LIME, established to replace obsolete equipment, improve facilities for patient care delivery and support the hospital’s teaching capability. The SLIT Lamp, supplied by CARIMED/ ALCON, will improve the diagnosis of conditions of the eye thereby delivering improved patient care. A number of conditions common in Jamaica are diagnosed by the equipment including cataracts, conjunctivitis, Retinitis pigmentosa and eye damage caused

by diabetes. UWIDEF continues to fulfill LIME’s intent through careful management of funds invested in a manner that allows annual support for the hospital while preserving the capital for future needs. LIME’s original contribution of US$700,000, in 1995, has been used to acquire equipment over a number of years, with approximately US$15,000 available annually to assist the hospital. This support fits the tripartite mission of the University Hospital of the West Indies of; ensuring medical students will be exposed to the use of the newest and most technologically advanced equipment supporting the clinical teaching programme of the medical school; providing health services to the surrounding communities and serving

as the site for the testing and development of new diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. LIME is a UWIDEF Century Club member and was specially recognized in October 2013 for its long record of philanthropy to benefit the UWI. LIME will also provided five (5) scholarships for final year undergraduate students specializing in Telecommunications and Engineering. Participants in the equipment handing over ceremony were Chairman, LIME Foundation, Mr. Errol Miller; UHWI Accountant, Mr. Keith Allen, UHWI Immediate past Head of Ophthalmology Dr. Donovan Calder and UWIDEF Board Director, Mr. Karl Wright.

Dr. Donovan Calder (2nd from right) describing some of the disorders the slit lamp can be used to detect. (l-r) Mr. Wayne Campbell, Director of MIS, UHWI; Mr. Errol Miller, Chairman LIME Foundation; Mr. Kevin Allen, Senior Director of Finance representing Dr Trevor McCartney, CEO; Mr. Karl Wright, Director UWIDEF Board and; Mrs. Judith Umrah Asst. Director of HR. On Cover: LIME Foundation Chairman, Mr. Errol Miller is the first patient to be examined by Dr. Donovan Calder, Consultant Ophthalmologist and Head of Division, with the equipment while other UHWI staff observe.

4


The Fund

Landmarks

The UWI Mona Chapel

The Chapel at the Mona Campus of the University of the West indies is set in a scene far distant from that in which it spent the greater part of its existence. It began life in 1799 as a stately Georgian building on the sugar estate of Gale’s Valley in Trelawny, one of the north-western parishes of Jamaica. By 1955, still in its original site, it had long ceased to play any part in the sugar factory for which it was constructed, but still attracted the occasional visitor. Her Royal Highness Princess Alice, Countess of Athlone and Chancellor of the University College of the West Indies, suggested to Mrs. Kelly-Lawson, then owner of the Hampden and Gale’s Valley estates, that this fine example of West Indian architecture could be preserved for greater usefulness if presented to the University for reconstruction as a Chapel.

In work supervised by the College’s first Resident Engineer, Mr. A. D. Scott, the old building was taken down and transferred stone by numbered stone, across the island. Part of the transportation cost was paid by the Custos of the Parish of St. James, then the Honourable, later Sir Francis Kerr. Princess Alice had by that time received, from a Canadian donor who wished to remain anonymous, a handsome gift of 40,000 pounds sterling for the building of the Chapel. The building of the new Chapel began in April 1956; the corner stone was laid on June 5, 1956 by then Governor of Jamaica, Sir Hugh MacIntosh Foot (later Lord Caradon); and the first Service was held on the last Sunday of Trinity Term 1959; June 21 1959. The Chapel was dedicated on February 14, 1960, during the Service of Commemoration

5

marking the Installation (February 16, 1950) of Princess Alice as Chancellor. The UWIDEF was instrumental in the refurbishing of the facility, which is highly sought after as a location for weddings and other religous services. The Chapel has played an important part in the history of the campus having played host to important state and University services.


The Fund

UWI MONA ALUMNI WHO SHINE Marlon Simms

Lecturer, Edna Manley College, Assistant Artistic Director NDTC

Marlon Simms is known as one of Jamaica’s young, exciting and creative choreographers and dancers. Marlon is currently principal dancer, senior member and former dance captain in the National Dance Theatre Company (NDTC). He recently added Associate Artistic Director to his many roles within NDTC and is elated at this new assignment and the opportunities it will afford him. “I’ve got big shoes to fill. It means building on a legacy, strategizing, expanding, sharing, creating, encouraging teamwork... it’s so many things, it’s exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time, but it’s still a wonderful honour.”

During his childhood Simms was instilled with discipline as his parents believed in being ambitious and though they believed in his dreams, they were very strict. This helped him stay focused. He also knew this push came from their deep-seated desire to see him achieve his full potential. Mr. Simms’ love for dance began during his time at the St. Jago High School in St Catherine. His love for this art form grew when the school entered Jamaica Cultural Development Commission’s (JCDC) Dance Festival. He also developed the competitive spirit and confidence that dancers need to thrive. Upon completion of high school, Mr.

6

Simms attended the University of the West Indies (UWI) where he attained a BA. in Literatures in English. He believes his experience at the UWI strengthened his research in the Arts and research; broadened his horizons with extensive subject offerings; and allowed him to build long lasting and important relationships with persons across the region. “UWI fed my love for teaching, sharing and moulding the next generation of young aspiring individuals. I understood the true meaning of independence by living on campus and managing my own affairs. UWI helped me to understand time management, develop organizational


skills and appreciate the importance of higher education in developing one’s critical thinking, insight and forward planning.” Mr. Simms recalled that his most memorable moments at UWI were spent involved in co-curricular activities as a member of the University Dance Society (UDS). The Society gave him the chance to meet young performers with similar interests and to transfer knowledge, which was gained from his theory courses, to kinetic possibilities. The involvement in UDS also created new opportunities for fusing interests. As he describes it, “the interrogative artist meets the active researcher...the lover of literature,” to

create a rounded individual. The Society also helped to deepen his passion and love for dancing, teaching, sharing and building new communities. It offered the chance for him to embody all that is entailed in connecting the mind with the body another form of creative dimension that was unlike words on a page in literature. Through dance meaning was manifested and communicated through movement. While completing his first degree Mr. Simms was one of the first residents on Preston Hall when it opened in 1995. He was also one of the persons who helped develop Hall Culture, the Hall song and in 1996 became even more heavily engaged in the Hall’s development by leading the Cultural and Entertainment Affairs as Chairperson.

The Fund

Marlon Simms UWI allowed Mr. Simms the opportunity to meet his mentor Prof. Rex Nettleford who was actually the supervisor of his Caribbean Studies thesis in his final year of studies. He believes that had he not attended the UWI, he would not have had the privilege of working with the mentor he describes as one who “represented all that was great UWI, the region, culture, politics, history and the arts.” In his final year and on the completion of his thesis he performed an excerpt of his work “Flash of the Spirit” in what he described and the greatest way to end his UWI experience! Mr. Simms furthered his education and

completed other studies including a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education at the University of Technology Jamaica; Master of Fine Arts in Choreographic Theory and Practice, Southern Methodist University; and Intermediate Teaching Certificate, Dance Notation Bureau at Ohio State University. From this wealth of knowledge Mr. Simms was sure to give back to UWI as a teacher and choreographer for the University Dance Society until 2011. With a passion for dance and excellence, it is no wonder that his ambition led him to become the Assistant Director of the Edna Manley School of Dance and head of the Dance Education Department at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts. Outside of the Edna Manley College, Mr. Simms teaches

7

and choreographs at institutions such as Campion Dance Society and Vickers Dance Studio and continues to work on dance projects for shows, presentations and productions, coordinating workshops for dance and having motivational sessions with young people when his schedule permits. Looking ahead, Simms wants to merge his fields. This would include strengthening the NDTC’s educational arm through seminars and workshops; developing a cadre of young choreographers, maintaining the company’s visibility in Jamaica and the Diaspora, and employing social media to share Jamaica’s dance heritage with a new generation.

To prospective UWI students Mr. Simms has this to say, “Embrace all that UWI has to offer. Audit classes, get involved in sports, be open to new experiences, make friends by learning about your own people and those from our region, visit the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts and join one of the performing arts groups, discover yourself through your talent. UWI is more than the lecture rooms, books and a library. One has the opportunity to have a full experience by the number of clubs, teams, societies and social possibilities that are generated by students or UWI’s administration. UWI believes in the holistic development of the individual.”


The Fund

8


The Fund

UWI Pelicans win National Netball Title

Copped Netball Jamaica/Supreme Ventures Major League Title The UWI Pelicans on Saturday, May 17th copped the Supreme Ventures Major League Netball title which they last won in 2010. The Pelicans secured a final berth by beating the Waulgrovian’s ‘A’ Team in their semi-final match. In the second semi-final, JAMALCO defeated MICO University College to book their spot in the final. The Pelicans trailed in the earlier part of the first quarter but levelled the score 11-11 at end. In the second quarter the Pelicans stepped up defensively and moved ahead 26-19. The third quarter was more of the same and the Pelicans ended the quarter leading 38-26. In UWI Pelicans celebrating their win at the finals of the NJ/Supreme Ventures Major League 2014 the last quarter JAMALCO outscored UWI 12-10 and the circle and shot 29/44 attempts. She was ably assisted final score ended 48-38. by Shaquina Francis, Goal Attack who scored 19/28 attempts. UWI’s defensive machinery was superior to Most Valuable Player and Goal Shooter of the UWI that of their opponents and hence the Pelicans were Pelicans Ladonna Lamonth, was clinical in the goal able to capitalize on numerous turnovers.

UWI Pelicans collecting their trophy from (r) Mrs Sonia Davidson, Vice President Group Corporate Communications, Supreme Ventures and Mrs Marva Bernard President Netball Jamaica.

9

It couldn’t have been a happier moment for Coach Conrad Parks who had strong faith in his team. “It was anticipated, we were the only undefeated team even though we knew that the other teams were very competitive,” said Parks following the win. Coach Parks went on to say “The girls had to maintain their focus and their concentration and play really hard in order to win.”


The Fund

Christine Lagarde

IMF Managing Director Visits the Mona Campus The University of the West Indies Mona Campus played host to the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Christine Lagarde on Friday June 27. The visit was part of her official two day visit to Jamaica. The IMF Managing Director delivered a lecture at the Social Sciences Lecture theatre titled “The Caribbean and the IMF—Building a Partnership for the Future”. The lecture was timely as Jamaicans, in the midst of an IMF programme, have been questioning the IMF and its methods in bringing about reforms. It comes at a time when other Caribbean countries also facing economic troubles have either turned to or are considering the IMF for support. Before going into her main presentation Mrs Lagarde hailed the University of the West Indies and the quality of the learning received, calling it a “a true haven of higher learning”. She further referenced the distinguished cadre of alumni particularly highlightng the number of heads of states , nobel laureates and those who excel in their various professions across the world.

10


Addressing a packed lecture theatre Mrs Lagarde spoke to the challenges of the region, focussing her presentation in three main areas • A changing Caribbean. • How the Caribbean can keep changing to ensure a success. • How the IMF has changed to adapt to the needs of its membership. The IMF Chief referenced the fact that a majority of the Caribbean states, have been characterised by low growth and high debt. The result being, among other things a lack of opportunities and high crime. To counter this, she stated that necessary change was being acheived through reforms. Of note, Mrs Lagarde pointed out that Caribbean people have always adapted to change over time and driven the changes needed. “She stated “the Caribbean is also home to highlyeducated, highly-driven people. I can see it here today.” She went on to state

The Fund

Christine Lagarde that to complete the journey the region must ensure reduced energy costs, a suitable business climate to ensure competitiveness. She also spoke of the importance of recognising the impact of climate change and ensuring measures are taken to protect the people. Mrs. Lagarde highlighted too that the IMF was changing. The institution she stated was not the same as existed before but one which is more responsive to the needs of the people it serves. Students from across the campuses were invited to submit questions to be addressed by the Managing Director along with those taken from the audience. The UWI Mona Guild President Lerone Laing, was one of the two questions taken from inside the room prior to Mrs Lagarde’s departure due to her very limited schedule. Mr. Laing challenged the IMF Managing Director to consider the impact of

policies on the ability of students to access higher education. In her response she stressed the importance of education in helping a country grow and that this is very important to the Fund and to her. The lecture may be read on the IMF website (http://www.imf.org/external/np/ speeches/2014/062714.htm)

Lerone Laing, President of the UWI Mona, Guild of Students

A Step Back in Time...

As we approach the new academic year take a look at some of the new students arriving at Mona in 1948 Left: Some of the first undergraduates arriving by BWIA at Palisadoes Airport, Kingston from Antigua, Barbados and St. Kitts, October 1948 to start at the new University College of the West Indies. Right: Students arriving at Gibraltar Hall, Mona for start of term, 1948 Images from the UWI St. Augustine (http://www2.sta.uwi.edu/uwi60/evolve/galleries_past1.asp)

11


The Fund

UWIDEF NOW...

Tariq Parker Cops The Prestigious Aubrey McFarlane Memorial Bursary The ‘Dr. Aubrey McFarlane Memorial Bursary’ is given to the student who gains the top mark in Surgery for the Final MBBS Examinations at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus each year. This award commemorates the life of Dr. Aubrey McFarlane and is made possible by the kind donation of the McFarlane Family who have established an endowment fund which is managed by the UWI Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF). Dr. Tariq Parker is the proud recipient of the ‘2014 Aubrey McFarlane Memorial Bursary’ as he not only received the top mark in Surgery for the UWI Mona campus, but the top mark over all among all UWI campuses. Outside of gaining Dr. Tariq Parker (r) recieving his award from Prof. Newton Duncan, Head of Surgery the top mark in Surgery, Dr. Tariq Parker Department, UHWI with UWIDEF Programme Manager, Chris Benjamin looking on. excelled in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Officer in the government service, was noted as one and Internal Medicine. He was awarded the Medicine of the most gifted surgeons and physicians by the Subject Medal, the Allenbury Prize, the Professor late professor John Golding. With his outstanding Owen Morgan Prize, The Honourable John Hall achievements to date, Dr. Parker is not only deserving Prize and The Ashley Karl Banbury Foundation Prize of this commemorative award; but he is truly poised in Medicine for excellence in the 2014 MBBS Final for future success as he gets ready to serve his Examinations. community and pursue his interest in the field of Neurosurgery. Dr. Aubrey McFarlane, who was a Chief Medical

New Scholarship

Dr. and Mrs. Wycliffe and Felicia Lofters Scholarship UWIDEF is pleased to announce the establishment of the “Dr. and Mrs. Wycliffe and Felicia Lofters Scholarship”. Beginning in 2014/2015, this award is available to 3rd year or 2nd year students pursuing a BEd. in Science Education or Math Education in the Faculty of Humanities and Education at the UWI, Mona campus. Dr. Wycliffe and Mrs. Felicia Lofters are both alumni of the University of the West Indies where Dr. Lofters taught many medical students and residents during his

years working at the university. Mrs. Lofters received her bachelor’s degree in education and taught science at the Immaculate Conception High School where she also served as Head of the Science Department. Both Dr. & Mrs. Lofters are children of teachers and the importance of education was a fundamental part of their family values, which they have shared and passed on to their own children. Mrs. Aisha LoftersScales, their daughter has established this scholarship to honour the life and legacy of her parents Dr. & Mrs. Lofters.

12


The Fund

The Beneficiaries

Ms. Renae Lewis “Attending the University of the West Indies was always one of the many stops that were on my path to success. On August 22, 2010 I travelled from one of the western rural parishes of the island to acknowledge my acceptance of the University’s offer to read for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Studies with a major in Accounting. I was also accepted to live on campus. While the Student’s Loan Bureau took care of my tuition; funding for my living accommodation and other miscellaneous expenses was always an uncertainty. My accommodation expenses became overdue and I was then threatened for deregistration from the university. Through the invaluable work undertaken by the UWIDEF, I was awarded the Jamaica Observer Bursary for the year 2011/2012 and the UWIDEF Undergraduate Scholarship for 2012/2013. I was able to cover all my university fees in the two years that I received the awards. Without a doubt, UWIDEF has made my completion of tertiary education a possibility. Thank you Jamaica Observer and thank you UWIDEF!” We at UWIDEF are proud of Ms. Renae Lewis who overcame the odds and is currently an Assistant Accountant in the Audit department at KPMG’s Montego Bay Branch.

Do you know the legend of the Poui Tree on Campus? There is a popular campus legend that if you haven’t started studying by the time the poui trees begin to blossom, then your chances of excelling in your exams are very slim. Was this your your experience?

13


The Fund

MAKE A DIFFERENCE Make your gift today

Making a donation is…

The University of the West Indies Development and Endowment Fund (UWIDEF) funds scholarships and projects to assist with the development of the Mona Campus.

1. EASY

There are many ways that you can help develop the Mona Campus and assist deserving students obtain a tertiary education. • Establish a Named Scholarship or Bursary ( suitable for companies, individuals, commemorative activities, families, associations) • Contribute to a pool that funds scholarships and bursaries by supporting the Each One Give One campaign • As part of your scholarship contribution you may offer internships and job placement opportunities • Create an Endowment to support your philanthropic goal long into the future. • Support a Project – support existing projects e.g. library modernization, sports facilities or contribute to one that realizes your specific goal • Insurance – make UWIDEF a beneficiary on your insurance policy. • You can designate your contribution to a specific Faculty, Department, Programme or activity.

3. TAX DEDUCTIBLE

Our UWIDEF staff stands ready to help customize your gift to ensure your intent is fulfilled. “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in”- Greek Proverb UWI Development and Endowment Fund 16 Gibraltar Camp Way University of the West Indies, Mona Kingston 7, Jamaica 1.876.977.6757/6758 Phone 1.876.619.0859 Digicel 1.876.970.2023 Fax Website: www.uwifundmona.org.jm Email: uwifund@uwimona.edu.jm We welcome your feedback.

14

2. CONVENIENT

Our Methods of Payment include: • Online Payment via UWIDEF’s website at http://uwifundmona.org.jm/ • Cheques—make payable to the UWI Development and Endowment Fund (Jamaican donors) • Credit/debit Card - Please visit UWIDEF office to conduct this transaction • Tele and Internet Banking – Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS) and National Commercial Bank (NCB)- Please contact UWIDEF to get your personal donor account number to be able to access this payment option. • Cash Deposits at the following: ›› NCB Account Number – 401006753 (Mona) ›› BNS Account number – 28040 (Liguanea) • Payroll Deduction • Pre-Authorized Payment/Direct Deposit (from any of the five Commercial Banks)


The Fund

15


The Fund

16


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.