What started out as a morning of heavy rains and downpours turned out to be an afternoon of sunny skies for the University of the Virgin Islands, Albert A. Sheen Campus “MVP” Class of 2024 graduates. The university conferred over 80 degrees to graduates at the ceremony.
After a bit of a delay, the “meticulous, valiant, and persistent” class walked down the university’s lawn and collected their diplomas. Although saturated from the rain and a bit humid, attendees cheered on their graduates.
In his speech, President of the University of the Virgin Islands, David Hall announced that this would be his final commencement after serving in his current position for 15 years. “I am honored to deliver my final commencement remarks to this outstanding class. There is something very special about reaching the end of an important and sacred journey in life and you and I are at the end of a special journey that we started many years ago,” said Hall.
“Finality should not scare us but inspire,” he said.
Caroline Fawkes received an honorary doctorate degree for being the only female State Army Aviation Officer with the National Guard, and the first and only female within the Armed Forces to pilot the C-23B Sherpa Aircraft. She also obtained master aviator wings for sixteen years and 4,000 accident-free flight hours. Also, the 10th African American woman to attend and graduate from flight school. Keynote speaker Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms also received an honorary doctorate and provided a speech for both St. Thomas and on St. Croix.
Speaking on behalf of the class was class speaker Nadeja Barber, who went to Denmark for an entire semester. She has also interviewed with a Fortune 500 company and been offered a full-time job. During her speech, Barber said, “Perseverance is ours.”
“Perseverance should not come at the cost of our mental or physical well-being. Despite facing health challenges, we remained committed to our academic pursuits. With the support of our families, our friends, and our colleagues,” she said.
