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Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson out as Vice President of Academic Affairs @ HLSCC

Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson has announced she is no longer the Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson. Photo: Provided
The appointment of Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson as Vice President of Academic Affairs for three years was made effective on October 1, 2020. Photo: VINO/File
The appointment of Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson as Vice President of Academic Affairs for three years was made effective on October 1, 2020. Photo: VINO/File
PARAQUITA BAY, Tortola, VI- “I leave behind some of the most wonderful professionals that supported me unwaveringly as I executed the duties of my office at HLSCC. I am thankful for the opportunity that I was granted to serve.”

These were the words of former Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson on her Facebook page on Saturday, September 30, 2023, following the expiration of her three-year contract at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC).

No replacement has yet been announced.

On to the ‘next chapter’

Dr Smith-Thompson stated that her “next chapter” will definitely continue to be one of service, with an emphasis on philanthropy in support of educational needs across our territory.

“I am also excited about the opportunity to pursue my passions in inclusive education and TVET further.  There are so many marginalized young people in our society that are in need of advocates to support their possible futures.  I want to continue to be one of their voices of hope and change.”

Dr Smith-Thompson also announced that through her educational consultancy, Cadwell Consulting VI, which was established in 2018, she has adopted the Imagination Academy VI (IAVI) and disclosed that has since gifted the institution with a refrigerator for use by the 3 to 6-year-olds in their culinary sessions.

“This is just a small gesture to show my commitment to this budding partnership.  I know that great things will be in store for our future together!”

Long-standing relationship with HLSCC

Dr Smith-Thompson, who had succeeded now President of HLSCC Dr Richard W. Georges as the Vice President for Academic Affairs, had a long-standing relationship with the College, having previously served as an Adjunct Lecturer in business and education courses for a number of years and also as a consultant.

She has also served as an Adjunct Lecturer at the UWI Open Campus in the VI, teaching several business courses over the years.

Dr Smith-Thompson had an extensive public service career which commenced as a Business Education teacher and later Department Head at the then BVI High School.  She then transitioned to government administration rising to the post of Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Deputy Governor’s Office, and Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works.

She had contested unsuccessfully for the Third District Seat with the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) in the 2019 general elections.

19 Responses to “Dr Arlene L. Smith-Thompson out as Vice President of Academic Affairs @ HLSCC”

  • Asking For Myself (02/10/2023, 10:25) Like (4) Dislike (10) Reply
    So it was not renewed?
    • time will tell (02/10/2023, 11:10) Like (22) Dislike (0) Reply
      She opted not to seek renewal. That in my opinion is very telling.
  • Greg (02/10/2023, 10:55) Like (2) Dislike (4) Reply
    If there is no one to replace her, it seems the position is redundant, or else they would have had someone else in mind to quickly step into the position.
  • CHAMPION (02/10/2023, 13:48) Like (90) Dislike (0) Reply
    You are a champion. Young people need you thank you for helping to champion their causes. I've listened to many young persons who look up to you and who admire your professionalism in the workplace, in the streets, in your own business and you being a mother to many. Great job I want to give you your flowers while you are alive. Continue to impact the lives of all you come in contact with. May the work you have done speak for you and that of what you will continue to do.
  • Concerned (02/10/2023, 17:53) Like (18) Dislike (0) Reply
    I believe she is protecting her grace, as it is said that there are some persons who make themselves extremely difficult to work with in that institution......
    • Saving Face, Keeping Grace (03/10/2023, 06:53) Like (16) Dislike (13) Reply
      HLSCC is not a very desired place to work anymore unfortunately. There are some very difficult "women" who has been working there for years that think they own and can control the college and anyone who is hired their. The 3 blind mice has contributed nothing of significance to the institution but kisses @$$ with every board member that they can to gain favor. Long story short they have lowered the moral at HLSCC and no matter how much each successor as president tries to change that. They fight down their initiatives and persons that he or she hires. LEAD THE BLIND MICE OF THE CAMPUS AND THE MORALE WILL RISE AGAIN. #LVJB#DH#MWD.
      • Correct (03/10/2023, 09:50) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
        You are right. I worked there and will never go back onto that campus again.
  • Fam (02/10/2023, 18:35) Like (38) Dislike (0) Reply
    She is good people
  • Fam (02/10/2023, 19:51) Like (35) Dislike (0) Reply
    What a beautiful picture
  • Turth Speaks (02/10/2023, 20:05) Like (78) Dislike (0) Reply
    Dr. Smith-Thompson was the best PERSON that has graced HLSCC in YEARS!! Her professionalism and experience is unmatched and far exceeds anyone currently employed there. HLSCC is a cesspool of s--t so Dr. Smith-Thompson have lost nothing by departing. Better days are ahead for her. Continue to be great Dr. Smith-Thompson!!!
  • Real Talk (02/10/2023, 22:18) Like (12) Dislike (0) Reply
    Never spoken to her publicly from my observation she is a humble person may god grace continue to guide your path.
  • diane (03/10/2023, 03:58) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    informational

  • Dancing with the starsI (03/10/2023, 13:49) Like (27) Dislike (0) Reply
    Dr. Arleen Smith-Thompson has been an outstanding public servant for years and now that she is leaving the H.L.S.C.C let us wish her all the best in the future. Her service to the College and the Territory was outstanding. May she enjoy a bright and prosperous future.
  • next (04/10/2023, 03:33) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    just love her beautiful person in and out my God guide her foot steps
  • Childhood Friend (05/10/2023, 15:13) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    So true.. Amen!!
  • Arlene Smith-Thompson (06/10/2023, 07:14) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Thanks everyone for such heartfelt words.  I am overwhelmed by the love and support you have shown me during this period of transformation.  I am excited about this new journey that I am on as I seek to do my part to raise the bar of excellence in education in our territory of the Virgin Islands even higher.  With your continued support I know I can be the change I wish to see in areas I am most passionate about.  Peace and blessings to all.

    #togetherwecan
    #ourstudentsmatter
    #ourteachersmatter


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