USVI Public Records

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Holland Redfield, humanitarian, radio show per­ sonality, former senator and statesman, has played an active role in the destiny of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands for close to 50 years. As an elected official, Redfield consistently said, “The difference between a statesman and a politician is that a politician works for the next election and a statesman works for the next generation.” This philosophy has guided him throughout his political career, and formulated his public policy decisions in the Territory. Redfield’s first passion in life was flying having served as a licensed commercial pilot since 1966. His ultimate passion however has been the U.S. Virgin Islands where he has been an active part of the com­ munity since his arrival on St. Croix in 1969. Redfield first launched his public career as a campaign aide to Governor Cyril E. King in 1974. His interest in con­ sumer issues led to Governor King’s recognition and soon after an appointment as a member, and later as Chairman of the Public Services Commission. In this position, he distinguished himself by decreasing long distance telephone and portable water rates in the Virgin Islands. Redfield also served as a senator in the VI Legislature. It was his greatest honor to serve six terms on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands during the period 1984 to 1998. During his service in the Legislature, he worked to positively affect public policy matters and remained a staunch consumer advocate dedicated to keeping money in the pockets of Virgin Islanders and supporting economic development throughout the community. Redfield also served as the National Committeeman of the Republican Party of the Territory and was elected chair of the Island Caucus. He also spearheaded, and received national recognition for the election of the first African American National Chairman of the Republican Party. Redfield’s civic involvement includes a term as president of the St. Croix Board of Realtors, membership in the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce, fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and as board member of Camp Arawak, a vocational program for deprived youth. In addition, Redfield was knighted as part of The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller, and Commander of The West Indies in 2006. Redfield has never slowed down in his efforts, whether a public official or private citizen, he continues to be a champion for the consumer and diligently working to keep large companies and government accountable and transparent. He also hosts a daily radio talk show, “Straight Talk with Redfield.” The magazine style format for the show covers lifestyle, political, and social issues. Frequent guests include political leaders, community activists, and local residents who participate and call-in to share their views, knowing he will be an active listener to their concerns. Most recently, many Virgin Islanders remember Redfield in the wake and aftermath of the two devastating category five hurricanes, Irma and Maria. Redfield’s voice on the radio helped to calm, reassure and encourage citizens. During Hurricane Maria, Redfield con­ tinued broadcasting on 93.5FM at great risk to his personal safety. In the middle of the storm, when the studio roof was breached, Redfield had to be rescued. Undeterred by this setback, Redfield immersed himself in the recovery process and continued his daily broadcast. He gave local and federal authorities a platform to coordinate their efforts. Redfield also served as a focal point for sharing critical information with the community and providing an outlet for citizens to address or share concerns. At a time when commu­ nication was challenged in the Territory, his radio program was a vital source of information for residents and throughout the Caribbean. As he likes to say, “This hurricane was not my first rodeo.” He previously broadcasted during many storms, most notably also during Hurricane Marilyn in 1995. It has been said that we can do no great things, only small things with great love. Redfield’s love for St. Croix and the Virgin Islands is well known in the community. His passion and drive for a better Virgin Islands for all is grounded in the belief that together we must learn from the past, live in the present and prepare for the future. Holland L. Redfield, II The Honorable Holland L. Redfield, II Doctor of Humane Letters ST. CROIX Friday, the Eighteenth of May Two Thousand and Eighteen Half after One O’clock in the Afternoon Albert A. Sheen Campus St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands ST. THOMAS Thursday, the Seventeenth of May Two Thousand and Eighteen Half after One O’clock in the Afternoon UVI Sports and Fitness Center St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands Fifty-Fourth Annual Commencement