The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) celebrated its 61st Commencement ceremonies on May 15, 2025, on the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix and May 16, 2025, on the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas. Jubilant crowds of family members, alumni, supporters and dignitaries honored an accomplished graduating class of 288 students across UVI’s six schools and colleges and celebrated a series of institutional milestones. 

In addition to marking the first commencement exercises presided over by UVI President Dr. Safiya George, who assumed office in August 2024, the ceremonies recognized the accomplishments of a diverse and dynamic graduating class, including historic program milestones, military commissions, and the conferral of prestigious honorary degrees. 

In her passionate welcome address, Dr. George highlighted the strengths of the graduating class saying, “I am confident that the resilient, eminent, revolutionary... limitless, innovative and tenacious Class of 2025 is going to go out in the world and do big bold things and also make small impactful, meaningful moves as well.” She added, “Graduates, you are the next generation of leaders at the nexus between educational preparation and implementation for greater impact and economic development right here at home.”  

Chair of the UVI Board of Trustees Henry C. Smock also reflected on the significance of the event and the impressive achievements of the Class of 2025. “The Board of Trustees is keenly aware that many of you were employed full-time, part-time, maintain households, raise children, all while attending UVI. And that’s something many of us on this stage would find extremely difficult to accomplish,” he said. “Your tenacity and commitment have served you well in the attainment of your goals.” 

Acting Governor of the Virgin Islands Tregenza Roach, a UVI alumnus and former faculty member, congratulated graduates with an inspirational message paying tribute to the heroes of the Virgin Islands. He shared stories of Virgin Islanders who contributed to the progress of the African Diaspora, reminding graduates that they are stepping into a legacy of greatness. “You stand on the shoulders of these incredible and awesome people and we are excited and hopeful for where you will take us in the future,” he stated. 

A highlight of both ceremonies was the keynote address delivered by Hill Harper, award-winning actor, best-selling author, and humanitarian, who was awarded an honorary doctorate during the ceremony. Celebrated for his roles in award-winning television series and his passionate advocacy for youth empowerment, health equity and education, Harper shared a message of purpose, legacy, and collective responsibility. He reminded the Class of 2025 that they are living answers to ancestral prayers and challenged them to lead with energy, courage, and compassion to help move what is stuck in the world, leaving behind their own lasting fingerprints of change. 

“You are magnificent, you are brilliant, and you are unstoppable, so remember you have to believe, and you have to show up with the level of energy that’s required to change something, and that energy has to be enthusiastic, it has to be positive, and finally, you have to forgive. As soon as you forgive, you go back to believing something new,” Harper exhorted. 

UVI also conferred Doctor of Humane Letters degrees on Brigadier General Deborah Y. Francis Howell and Brigadier General Sally F. Petty, two Virgin Islanders who broke barriers in military leadership. Both honorees were recognized for their decades of service, leadership, advocacy, and mentorship within the armed forces. 

The 2025 ceremonies marked the graduation of UVI’s inaugural cohort of students from the University’s Executive MBA program, a globally focused curriculum designed for experienced professionals. The five-member class, comprised of USVI and regional business leaders, included Kim Jerome, Sana Joseph Smith, Candace Warner Shoy, Kenneth Alleyne, and Edidiong Utibe. 

Representing another first for the institution, Edna Alfred and Zavira Wilson became the first two graduates of UVI’s new Associate of Science in Horticulture program, which integrates agricultural science, sustainability, and economic development across the Virgin Islands.  

Ten students were awarded the Ph.D. in Creative Leadership for Innovation and Change, representing the highest level of academic achievement at UVI. Among them were Dr. Gary Molloy, Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Department of Labor, and his wife, Dr. Christa-Ann Molloy, a longtime educator — underscoring a shared commitment to public service and academic excellence. 

La’Monee Morris, former Miss UVI, and Jhaleek Christian graduated from UVI’s ROTC program and received military commissions. Both were celebrated for their leadership, dedication, and future service to the nation. 

Kyra Edwards, 2024 White House HBCU Scholar, delivered the class address on St. Croix, emphasizing growth through adversity and the power of perseverance. She encouraged her classmates to pause and appreciate how far they’ve come: “Here’s to the seeds we planted, to the storms we endured, to the gardens we have grown, to the lessons we have learned, and to the brilliant, blooming futures ahead of us. Let us bask in the pride of our win and savor the fragrance of our victory.” 

On St. Thomas, Joleen Buchanan, addressed her peers with reflections on perseverance and self-belief. “We started this journey with uncertainty and somehow we still made it here. Uncertainty will always be there. We don’t run from it,” she said. In the face of uncertainty, she urged graduates to “Take risks, ask questions, make mistakes and still show up.” 

The ceremonies also honored the fiftieth anniversary of the Class of 1975, recognized the dedication of UVI faculty and staff, and showcased the musical talents of UVI students who performed throughout the events setting a celebratory tone. 

To watch the recorded events, view the booklet and read student success stories, visit www.uvi.edu. 

For more information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) reminds all business owners and employers across Sint Maarten that when it comes to closing a business or dismissing of employees, fair and lawful processes must always be observed, especially in today’s evolving economic environment.

Minister of VSA, Hon. Richinel Brug, stated, “We understand that business decisions such as restructuring, downsizing, or full closure, are sometimes unavoidable. However, those decisions must respect the rights of all workers, both permanent and temporary.

Clarifying the Legal Process

While not every business closure requires formal notification to the Ministry, certain conditions, particularly those involving mass dismissals, do. In such cases, employers must notify and seek permission from the Secretary General of the Ministry of VSA, in accordance with the Dismissal Ordinance and established guidelines.

However, when terminations are settled mutually between the employer and employees, honoring legal entitlements, formal notification is not legally required. Still, both parties are encouraged to consult the Division of Labor Affairs for guidance, to avoid disputes or misunderstandings. Parties are also encouraged to establish such agreements in writing to prevent possible future claims by either party.

Key Considerations for Employers

Regardless of the type of employment contract, all employees have rights that must be respected during termination, including but not limited to:

• Payout of unused accrued vacation days, in accordance with the established legal requirements.

• Compensation equivalent to the salary over the legally established notice period, in case of e.g. premature termination without observing the aforementioned notice period.
• Possible compensation for years of service (also known as severance/ cessantia), when the termination is due to no fault of the employee

Employers are also encouraged to explore mutual termination agreements, which can be beneficial for both parties when handled transparently and respectfully.

Support for Employers and Workers

The Ministry, through the Division of Labor Affairs, offers free support to both employers and employees navigating termination or closure scenarios. Whether it’s legal clarification, best practices for termination, or help transitioning workers into new roles, the Ministry remains a resource for the community.

Minister Brug added, “Even when legal requirements are unclear, it is wise to seek advice. A single misstep can have long-lasting effects on both employers and workers. We are here to help ensure those steps are taken correctly and fairly.”

Moving Forward Together

In closing, Minister Brug calls on all businesses to act with integrity and care. “Our workforce is the foundation of our economy. By treating every employee with fairness and dignity, we ensure a stronger, more resilient Sint Maarten for all.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday, May 10, 2025, the St. Peter's Seventh-day Adventist Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, hosted a heartfelt celebration in honor of Nurses Week 2025. The event, held at the St. Peters SDA Church, recognized and celebrated the unwavering dedication and service of nurses across the island of St. Maarten. Nurses from various healthcare institutions were honored for their critical role in the health and well-being of the community. Head nurses from the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and major facilities such as the St. Martin’s Home, St. John’s Home, St. Basilia Center, Mental Health Foundation, District Nursing Services, the Ambulance Department, and the Prison Health Services were each presented with commemorative plaques and cups as tokens of appreciation. A major highlight of the event was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Nurse Brunilda Illidge, one of St. Maarten’s pioneering nurses. Affectionately known as the “Mother of Nurses,” Nurse Illidge has made a profound impact on the island’s healthcare landscape. Born in Aruba, she is a proud mother of three daughters and grandmother to f ive grandchildren. Nurse Illidge is a dynamic Registered Nurse and energetic Nursing Instructor. She is widely respected for being trustworthy, loving, and highly motivated. Her students praise her for encouraging critical thinking and professionalism. Known for her ethical standards and civic-mindedness, she consistently demonstrates effective cross-cultural communication and a readiness to support others. Her no-nonsense attitude is balanced by a deep commitment to mentorship and excellence in nursing education. The event was coordinated by Health Minister Erica Davis, Health Leader of the St. Peters SDA Church, whose dedication and organizational efforts contributed greatly to the success of the program. Her leadership, along with the collaboration of the Honorable Miniter, ensured that the contributions of nurses were recognized in a meaningful and memorable way. This Nurses Week celebration was not only a tribute to individual achievements but also a collective acknowledgment of the dedication and sacrifices made by nurses, especially in recent challenging times. The organizers extended heartfelt thanks to all the nurses for their tireless efforts and devotion to serving the people of St. Maarten. A special thank-you was also given to everyone who contributed to making the event a success—your support was instrumental in honoring our community’s unsung heroes.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The House of Parliament will sit in a Central Committee meeting on May 19, 2025.  

The Central Committee meeting which was originally scheduled for May 12, 2025, but was postponed due to a lack of quorum, will be convened on Monday at 14.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is:

Report on the 8^th Gathering of the Parliamentary Network on Climate Change and Sustainability, the 16^th Gathering of the Parliamentary Network for Gender Equality and the XI Meeting of the Interparliamentary Commission on Women’s Rights and Gender Equity of the FOPREL, in San José, Costa Rica, from October 23-25, 2024 (IS/961/2024-2025 dated May 5, 2025)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules. The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg. 

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament and  www.pearlfmradio.sx