From left: UVI President Safiya George, US Supreme Court Justice Brown Jackson, and UVI Chairman Henry Smock. Photo Credit: UVI

Justice Jackson was awarded an honourary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in recognition of her contributions to the legal field and public service.

The programme featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and performances. The event was hosted by Master of Ceremony Pamela Moolenaar-Wirsiy, Vice President for Student Success & Innovation at UVI. Official welcome remarks were delivered by Zeidan Bass, president of the Student Government Association at Orville E. Kean Campus, and Henry C. Smock, Chairman of the UVI Board of Trustees.

The ceremony continued with student greetings from Kyra Edwards, a White House Initiative on HBCUs Scholar, followed by a musical selection performed by the UVI Jazz Ensemble, led by Dion Parson, Chair of the Performing & Music Arts Department.

Trailblazing jurist

Following an introduction by UVI President Safiya George, Justice Jackson took the podium to deliver her remarks, reflecting on her journey, the significance of education, and the importance of public service. 

After her speech, Chairman Henry Smock and President Safiya George formally awarded Justice Jackson the honorary degree, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the judiciary and her role in shaping the legal landscape of the United States.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from President George and Briahna Thomas, President of the Student Government Association at Albert A. Sheen Campus. Special acknowledgments were extended to the District Court of the Virgin Islands, including Chief Judge Robert A. Molloy and District Judge Wilma A. Lewis, for their continued support of the university and legal education.

The event marked a significant moment for UVI, celebrating the achievements of a trailblazing jurist while inspiring students and community members alike.