Through its annual Global Giving programme, The University of the West Indies (The UWI) aims to connect with alumni, parents, friends, well-wishers and partners, inviting them to give contributions online to strengthen and sustain the regional university. The 2019 campaign kicks off on August 1 and parallels a larger capital campaign which will culminate with The UWI’s 75th Anniversary celebrations in 2023.
During his annual report presentation to the University Council earlier this year, Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, declared that the reputation of the regional institution has never been higher. The UWI has had a sustained legacy of prestigious service and leadership over the past 71 years, and in the last couple years, experienced a pronounced increase in global recognition. From establishing global centres, historic partnerships with other universities and regional and international agencies, to being top-ranked by Times Higher Education and leading research and agendas with worldwide impact, The UWI is a global brand associated with excellence.
“Maintaining excellent facilities, equipment, programmes, research and student support comes at a high cost”, says Minna Israel, Special Advisor to the Vice-Chancellor on Resource Development. “While The UWI Giving Week is staged annually from August 1-7, we have responded to requests from our alumni and friends and extended the period for online giving in particular. This year it will commence August 1 and run until December 31, 2019, under the theme: Emancipate…Educate…Donate, focused on fundraising for research, infrastructure and supporting students who are financially challenged.”
The Global Giving programme which was launched in 2016, is endorsed by several influential regional patrons including: the Right Honourable Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados; His Excellency, Anthony Thomas Aquinas Carmona, former President of Trinidad and Tobago; Her Excellency, Dame Dr Pearlette Louisy, former Governor-General of Saint Lucia; the Most Honourable P. J. Patterson, former Prime Minister of Jamaica; Her Excellency, Ms A. Missouri Sherman-Peter, Ambassador, Permanent Observer for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); His Excellency Sir S. W. Tapley Seaton, the Governor–General of St Kitts & Nevis; His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda; and His Excellency, Sir Colville Young, Governor General of Belize.
Persons interested in giving to The UWI are invited to visit www.uwi.edu/giving or contact Ms Minna Israel at minna.israel@uwimona.edu.jm.
