On January 14, 1990, the then British Virgin Islands Community College held its opening ceremony at the Omar Hodge building in Road Town. Three years after its opening, the College moved to a new, expansive campus in Paraquita Bay, where it still stands today. In 1993, the institution was also renamed in honour of its founding Chairman, H. Lavity Stoutt. Photo: VINO/File

The H. Lavity Stoutt Community College is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2025. Photo: Facebook

Director of institutional Advancement Ms Yvonne Crabbe said 2025 will be filled with an array of events and initiatives from groundbreaking capital projects to exciting activities and celebrations. Photo: Facebook

HLSCC will commence its 35th anniversary celebrations on January 14, 2025, with a Founders Day Ceremony. Photo: Facebook

The tertiary learning institution of the Virgin Islands (VI), led by President Dr Richard W. Georges, will begin celebrations today, Tuesday, January 14, 2025, with a Founder’s Day Ceremony at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium from 10:00 AM. 

The anniversary celebrations are being held under the theme ‘The Dream of a Visionary’.

Director of Institutional Advancement Ms Yvonne Crabbe said the year will be filled with an array of events and initiatives from groundbreaking capital projects to exciting activities and celebrations. 

“These moments not only honour our history but also provide a meaningful way for you to contribute to the further of the college,” she said during the college’s press conference on Monday, January 13, 2025. 

35th anniversary activities 

• HLSCC has several fundraising activities planned for their anniversary year, some of which include: 
• The launch of the HLSCC Foundation- a pivotal step in securing the college’s future
• Stingray Spring Fest- a benefit concert for students 
• Fundraising Gala- a significant event to engage supporters and friends
• Giving Tuesday Campaign- an opportunity for everyone to give back
• HLSCC license plate and frame competition- a way to showcase pride in the college
• Stingray Spotlight- celebrate the stories of alumni, students, faculty, staff and supporters

In addition to fundraising activities, there are a few groundbreaking events on the cards this year. They include:

• An Operation’s Centre at the North Campus- this will enhance the HLSCC’s capacity to serve its students 
• The Technical Training Centre at the South Campus- this will help the HLSCC to equip the workforce of tomorrow
• Acquatics and Fitness Centre to include a 25 meter swimming pool at the North Campus- this will be one of the many facilities that will be a part of the HLSCC’s Sports and Recreation Centre

A need for community support

“These projects and initiatives not only represent our vision for the college but also a tangible opportunity for you to invest in its success. We are calling on the community, our alumni, our corporate sponsors, our donors and friends to join us in shaping the future of HLSCC,” Ms Crabbe said. 

She explained that supporters can contribute by giving a monetary gift towards any project or existing programme, participate in the Giving Tuesday Campaign, give a gift, contribute tangible resources or services to support any project or event, offer services to the college pro bono or volunteering for a specific project, event or activity, attend a fundraising event, or any other on the calendar

“As we celebrate 35 years of service to the Virgin Islands community, we are reminded of the strength and unity that has brought us this far,” Ms Crabbe added. 

She invited everyone to be a part of the HLSCC’s journey, not just for this milestone year but for future generations who will walk through the college’s doors.

“Whether you give, volunteer, attend events or simply spread the word, your support will have a lasting impact on this institution and the students we serve. Together, let us make this 35th anniversary unforgettable and set the fountain for the next 35 years of excellence and growth,” Ms Crabbe encouraged. 

The college will publish additional events as the year progresses.