Education
HLSCC Welcomes Large Turnout of Students for Fall 2023 Orientation
Highest Number of Dually Enrolled Students Recorded
The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) in Paraquita Bay experienced an impressive surge in new applicants, parents, and guardians during the fall 2023 orientation held this past Monday.
The campus was abuzz with activity as faculty, staff, and volunteers warmly greeted the incoming students and provided them with branded giveaways upon their arrival. The orientation program was packed with informative sessions, comprehensive tours of the campus facilities, including classrooms, labs, and recreational areas, and a delightful complimentary buffet. To add to the excitement, an exhibition volleyball game was organized in the afternoon.
This semester, HLSCC proudly announced a record-breaking number of dually enrolled students. A total of seventy high school seniors from Elmore Stoutt High School, Bregado Flax Educational Centre, and Ciboney School of Excellence joined other college freshmen at the orientation session, which took place on July 14th. Dually enrolled students refer to high school students who are simultaneously taking high school and college courses, allowing them to earn college credits while completing their secondary education. This achievement highlights the increased interest and dedication of students in pursuing higher education and gaining a head start in their academic journey.
While registrations for returning students are ongoing until 25th August 2023, a significant number of returning students are expected to register for classes this Fall. HLSCC invites prospective students to “Get Started at HLSCC and Finish your Degree Anywhere.” The college, known for its accreditation and affordability, offers tuition assistance for BVIslanders and Belongers. With a wide range of degree and certificate programs, HLSCC ensures that students receive a quality education and training, equipping them with the necessary skills to secure good jobs, transfer to four-year institutions, upgrade their existing skills, or acquire new ones to remain competitive in the global marketplace.
Prospective students are reminded that it’s not too late to register for courses. HLSCC emphasizes that the best investment one can make is in oneself. Classes are scheduled to begin on 28th August 2023, so seize the opportunity to shape your future today.
For more information, contact HLSCC at 284-852-7167.
Let Your Tomorrow Begin Today!
BVIslander J’Sally O’Niel was officially called to practice as a member of the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Territory of the Virgin Islands on Monday, January 13. The ceremony, held before the Honourable Justice Stanley John K.C., saw J’Sally presented to the court by Associate Aaron Mayers.
J’Sally, who began her pupillage at Conyers’ BVI office in September 2024, has quickly gained recognition for her professionalism. Mark Forte, Partner and Head of BVI Litigation & Restructuring at Conyers, commended her work ethic, noting, “J’Sally has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, and we look forward to seeing her thrive in her legal career.”
J’Sally earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and was called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn in October 2024.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
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