Gov. Charles W. Turnbull, PhD, Professor Emeritus joined the University of the Virgin Islands Faculty and Staff at the 25th Service Awards Ceremony Thursday. The governor spoke both as a newly recognized Professor Emeritus and Retiree following 30 years of varied service.
Turnbull left no doubt concerning his love for the university. Speaking more as a gentle giant teacher than titular head of the territorial government, Turnbull stated "it is not fair to use a staff writer's speech given the location and my intimate relationship with the University" and vowed to speak extemporaneously until he had exhausted his subject.
Turnbull was raised by immigrant parents from Tortola who instilled in their children the value of education, according to the program. Turnbull obtained his Bachelor's Degree from Hampton University in 1958 and Master of Arts in 1959. In 1976 he obtained his doctorate in philosophy from the University of Minnesota. Returning home Turnbull served as an elementary and secondary teacher, assistant principal, principal, assistant commissioner and commissioner of Education culminating his education career as a professor of history at UVI.
Turnbull was most adamant concerning the joys of teaching. He said he often went to the university from his day job at the Department of Education feeling stressed, but after teaching a night class, Turnbull said he usually found himself feeling much better.
The governor was also adamant concerning his roots as an educator, which he proclaimed as the basis for his theme "Unity, Respect, and Service." Turnbull reiterated his continued admonition to "stretch for the highest star."
Turnbull singled out Dr. Roy Watlington Jr. for praise with respect to Watlington's remarks at the recent Transfer Day activities. Turnbull said that Watlington had given the very essence of the "Grander Vision" in his simple definition of "being better" and recommended all Virgin Islanders read and take to heart Watlington's speech.
At the close of his speech, Turnbull admonished "those with two eyes should lead those with one." He stressed the "Leaders should come from the university," and went on to remind all in attendance " the community is looking to the university for leadership."
The program was moved rapidly along by Manual Thomas, manager of Human Resources.
Honored for 20 years of service were Lorna V. Chesterfield, William O. Ottley, Sr., Mercilla E. Rogers, and Rosalia M. Rohan. The 25-year honorees included Marie-Claire Braure, Elgin A. Henry, Herman B. Huggins, and Marilyn T. Nibbs. The 30-year honorees receiving unique chunks of crystal with peacocks and fish set in the crystal included Joseph Aird, Judith A. Grybowski, Marilyn A.F. Krigger, Pearl I Varlack, and Vernon R. Williams. The seven retirees included Neville Antoine, Paul E. Francis, Judith A. Grybowski, Johannes Overbeek , Rene P. Questel, Marion E. Seiler, and Governor Charles W. Turnbull. They were honored with both letters of appreciation and the proverbial gold watch.
L&P Catering catered the event and music was provided by Austin Venzen and the UVI Music Department both prior to and following the formal program. The primary theme was flute music, which showcased the excellence of UVI's talent.
