Some 110 students of the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) were recognised at the institution’s first ever Honours Convocation last Saturday, March 10, 2012 at the UCCI Sir Vassel Johnson Hall.

Shining examples of academic excellence, the honorees garnering a 3.75-4.0 GPA during the Fall Semester 2011 made it to the President’s List while those with 3.5-3.74 GPA were included in the Dean’s List. UCCI President Roy Bodden touted these achievements, and urged the students to keep up the good work. Dean of Academic Affairs Dr. Allan Young, made special mention of the honorees in the Dual Enrolment Programme, who are finishing their last year of high school and doing their first year of college at the same time.

In his speech, Dean’s Lister, Student Representative Council President and full time police officer Ian Charlery said it’s all about hard work and determination. “Luck has little or nothing to do with being rewarded. I am sure we have all been there… that moment of overwhelming feeling when you feel like your back is against the wall and you just want to quit. You just feel like giving up, but you don’t. You persevere, you work harder than the rest. While they sleep, you work! In the end what puts a smile on your face and in your heart is your A grade. Now you are filled with feelings of accomplishment and joy,  and those feelings never get old,” he said.

UCCI Alumnus Dennis Connor gave an inspiring speech, sharing his own experiences as a student, and his successes as a professional, obtaining his CPA within less than a year of graduating from UCCI. Both young men and President’s List honoree Renee Lindo also expressed their gratitude to the University College and their teachers for the gesture of recognition, and for helping them grow as individuals.

Mrs. Mary Rodrigues, Chief of the Ministry of Education gave the congratulatory toast before the students and their guests enjoyed a mini reception that concluded the celebration.