The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) is experiencing some challenges ahead of its re-accreditation bid in 2020. Photo: GIS

This revelation was made by President of the HLSCC, Mrs Judith Vanterpool at a memorandum of understanding signing with the University of the Virgin Islands (USVI) at the local college's campus in Parquita Bay, Tortola on April 8, 2019. Photo: VINO

According to UVI VP Dr Davies said, “This is just a classic example [of] how we can help in this area.” He said that the UVI has been on the journey since 1972, “we were first affirmed by Middle States Commission and higher education.” Photo: VINO

This revelation was made by President of the HLSCC, Mrs Judith Vanterpool at a memorandum of understanding signing with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) at the local college's campus in Paraquita Bay, Tortola on April 7, 2019.

No Board Issues

“We are up for reaffirmation… early 2020 in March and we cannot afford to lose that,” Mrs Vanterpool charged. With human resources and financing at the core, she says the institution is working feverishly to get on track and put things in order.

“So we are working on those… I have to say one thing I am very happy with, I don’t have a challenge in working with the board,” however, according to Mrs Vanterpool, a major issue is getting faculty and staff to be committed and to recognise the importance of accreditation/reaffirmation at the higher education level.

“They should be driven... every day accreditation/reaffirmation should be on their tables and on their minds. They should be walking it and thinking it,” Mrs Vanterpool implored.

She says the institution has faced challenges in the past and therefore, “We have chosen since hurricane Irma, as our mantra, we will rise and without any doubt I know we will rise to the occasion.”

Time Factor 

Further, according to the HLSCC President, time is another factor as the 2020 deadline approaches with several outstanding tasks yet to be completed.

Mrs Vanterpool revealed that in seeking help, talks are already in progress with the UVI through its Vice President of Innovation and Development, Dr Haldane Davies.

“And he has promised to support [with accreditation]... So the relationship is closer, the marriage vows have been renewed this morning… Therefore I am charging Dr Davies and his team to expect this President and her team to be calling on them for certain resources,” she told those gathered.

According to UVI VP, “This is just a classic example [of] how we can help in this area.” He said that the UVI has been on the journey since 1972, “we were first affirmed by Middle States Commission and higher education,” he said.

Having recently gone through their most recent accreditation in 2017, he said his team has vast experience and exposure in that area. “So this is an opportunity for collaboration Madam President and something that we would be more than happy to assist with,” Dr Davies committed.