(L-R) Radiance Modeste, Mickalia Wheatley, and Whitney George. Photo: Michael Jack/HLSCC

The Culinary Department of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College continues to foster a culture of mentorship, innovation, and professional excellence, preparing students to thrive in the evolving hospitality and culinary industries. Photo: HLSCC

Director of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College’s Culinary Department, Keshia Davis-Barnes, said it is incredibly rewarding to see Radiance Modeste, Mickalia Wheatley, and Whitney George now leading in the very spaces where they once learned. Photo: HLSCC

Whitney George, Mickalia Wheatley, and Radiance Modeste bring a wealth of experience and expertise in the culinary industry that will help shape the minds of future culinary professionals, the HLSCC said in a press release on November 6, 2025.

The Culinary Department, headed by Director Keshia Davis-Barnes, continues to foster a culture of mentorship, innovation, and professional excellence, preparing students to thrive in the evolving hospitality and culinary industries.

They exemplify the college's mission

According to the press release, these three proud HLSCC graduates exemplify the College’s mission to cultivate lifelong connections that extend well beyond graduation. Their return represents both a personal triumph and a collective testament to the power of belonging, where learners become leaders, and success circles back to uplift the next generation.

"Whitney, Mickalia, and Radiance remind us that HLSCC is not just where journeys begin; it’s where they come full circle," said Mrs Davis-Barnes, "Their passion for teaching, professionalism, and commitment to excellence are what keep our programme vibrant and relevant. It’s incredibly rewarding to see them now leading in the very spaces where they once learned."

Each alumnus brings a wealth of experience & Knowledge

Whitney George’s journey with HLSCC began with an Associate Degree in Business Administration, followed by studies in Hospitality Management at Bethune-Cookman University.

"Teaching was never part of my original plan, but it has become one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life," she reflected. 

Mickalia Wheatley is a creative and service-driven entrepreneur who holds Associate Degrees in Hotel Management and Food and Beverage Management from HLSCC, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from the University of the Virgin Islands.

Radiance Modeste has more than a decade of culinary experience. She is a graduate of HLSCC with an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts and holds several professional certifications in food and beverage management. Her career has spanned some of the Virgin Islands’ finest restaurants, where she mastered a range of cuisines and honed her craft through hands-on experience.

This gesture strengthens the reputation of HLSCC

The press release added, "The return of these alumni underscores the College’s broader vision of creating pathways between education, employment, and community impact. Through experiential learning, industry partnerships, and applied training, HLSCC continues to strengthen its reputation as a cornerstone for professional development in the Virgin Islands."

Their collective stories are living proof of HLSCC’s strategic goals of Student Success and Community and Partnerships, as well as the College’s 35th Anniversary theme, 'Dream of a Visionary'.