The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. Photo: HLSCC

President of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) Dr Richard W. Georges said the college is looking towards the future of the institution as they celebrate a milestone anniversary this year. Photo: Facebook

The HLSCC is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025 and has several activities planned. The college opened its doors to students in 1990 and now has a student population of just about 700. 

“As we celebrate this milestone and our recognition of our past we also look towards the future, in order to continue this legacy of excellence and to embrace innovation, we are embarking on a review of our offerings in order to meet the challenges and opportunities that face us in the 21st century,” Dr Georges said during a press conference on Monday, January 13, 2025. 

Reviews will include the college’s Associate and Certificate Degrees as well as its General Education program. 

The HLSCC also seeks to continue strengthening its partnership with the private sector to ensure the programs being offered by the college remain relevant to the market. 

“We continue to invest in cutting edge technology and infrastructure and software to enhance the learning experience,” he stated. 

HLSCC is more than an education institution- Dr Georges 

Dr Georges added that the HLSCC is more than just an education institution explaining, “It is ours, it is an integral part of the fabric of the community and as such I implore and admonish us all to support it in all ways that we can, whether monetary, whether by sweat equity, whether by becoming evangelists for our own experiences at this institution.”

He continued that without the HLSCC, access to tertiary education would be more difficult for a majority of Virgin Islanders as well as no central space for recreation such as enjoying music, dance and the arts. 

“Without the college we wouldn’t have the platform for so many of the things that improved the standard and quality of life that we enjoy,” Dr Georges said. 

Meanwhile, he committed to ensuring that the best is done to provide for employees so that it remains a place that is enjoyable to work and remain committed to. The HLSCC as well Dr Georges said will strive towards developing and improving its facilities, infrastructure and technology to better both employees and improve student experience.