From Sandy Point to Global Success: A Retrospective

The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), established in 1962 as the College of the Virgin Islands (CVI), has significantly influenced the development of St. Kitts and Nevis. From its inception, UVI welcomed students from across the Caribbean, including a pioneering group from Sandy Point, St. Kitts, in 1965. These students embarked on a transformative educational journey, shaping not only their own futures but also contributing to the growth and progress of their home nation and the wider Caribbean region. The influence of UVI on St. Kitts and Nevis is a testament to the university’s commitment to regional development and its enduring partnership with the island nation.

The connection between St. Kitts and Nevis and CVI began in the town of Sandy Point, spearheaded by the visionary Anglican minister, Father Seymoure Clarke. He encouraged his parishioners to seek higher education at the newly established college, igniting a spark of ambition in many young individuals. Among these early pioneers were Dr. Frank Mills and Dr. Simon B. Jones-Hendrickson, who would later return to UVI as esteemed professors, further cementing the bond between the institution and St. Kitts and Nevis. Their stories, particularly Dr. Mills’ recollection of the life-changing phone call offering him a scholarship, underscore the opportunity CVI represented for many aspiring Caribbean students.

The early CVI alumni from St. Kitts and Nevis established a legacy of excellence, demonstrating the transformative power of education. These graduates, equipped with knowledge and skills acquired at CVI, returned to their home island to become leaders in various fields, including education, business, and government. Richard “Ricky” Skerritt, UVI’s first Rhodes Scholar, stands as a prominent example, achieving international recognition and demonstrating the potential of Caribbean students on a global stage. He later served as St. Kitts and Nevis’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization. Along with other notable alumni like Ian “Quincy” Quinlan, UVI’s second Rhodes Scholar, and Jonathan Bass, a senior financial officer, these graduates became role models for future generations.

UVI has consistently adapted to the evolving educational needs of the Caribbean, and students from St. Kitts and Nevis have remained integral to the university’s growth. The island nation continues to be the second-largest source of students at UVI, a testament to the enduring relationship between the institution and the nation. Alumni like Jacqueline Somersall-Berry, a graduate of UVI’s journalism and mass communications program, highlight the university’s ability to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate a rapidly changing world. Her experiences, particularly during the tumultuous period following the September 11 attacks, showcase how UVI’s timely courses and practical training prepared graduates for real-world challenges.

UVI’s impact on St. Kitts and Nevis is evident in the impressive list of alumni who have contributed significantly to the nation’s development. From the fields of banking and finance to telecommunications, government, education, medicine, and law, UVI graduates have played key roles in shaping the island’s future. This diverse array of professionals illustrates the breadth of UVI’s academic programs and the university’s success in nurturing talent across a wide range of disciplines. The contributions of these alumni, both professionally and in their commitment to their communities, underscore the profound impact of UVI education.

As UVI approaches its 70th anniversary, the university’s commitment to regional development remains as strong as ever. The institution’s legacy in St. Kitts and Nevis is etched in the successes of its alumni, who continue to demonstrate the transformative power of education. From the pioneering students of Sandy Point to the accomplished professionals of today, UVI’s influence on St. Kitts and Nevis is a story of perseverance, academic excellence, and a shared commitment to building a brighter future. UVI’s enduring partnership with St. Kitts and Nevis promises continued growth and collaboration, shaping the nation’s trajectory for generations to come.