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University of the Virgin Islands PRESIDENT'S REPORT Dr. LaVerne E. Ragster - February 22, 2003 - This is the report presented by UVI President Dr. LaVerne Ragster to the UVI Board of Trustees at its regular meeting held Saturday, February 22, 2003, on the St. Thomas campus. In addition to this on-line document, the report is available at UVI's Libraries on the St. Thomas and St. Croix campuses. 1 2 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Overview I am pleased to submit my second report to the Board of Trustees. It is the first full report that represents the achievements of the new administration covering the period October 2002 through February 2003. The report demonstrates the continuing high levels of productivity and achievements of the faculty, staff, and students of the University. The Board’s attention is directed to the outcomes as related to the 18 major thrusts of the strategic plan. I am especially pleased to share with the Board information on three initiatives on which attention has been focused: (1) building relationships with new and potential donors, (2) recognizing support from community members who have previously provided significant support to the University in order to cultivate a more rewarding relationship with them, and (3) organizing for the marketing plan for UVI. The primary objective of this report is to provide for the Board a synopsis of the more significant outputs from new and ongoing activities and initiatives, some of which are brought to the Board’s attention through the committee process. Some examples, the details of which are presented in the report that follows, are noted below: 3 Significant Accomplishments of the Period Reaffirmation of the University’s accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Commission acted to accept the Periodic Review Report submitted by the University and to commend the institution for the quality of the report. The next evaluation visit is scheduled for 2006-2007. Continued implementation of Strategic Plan 2000-2005, as evidenced by the component reports of achievements in direct response to the 18 thrusts of the strategic plan. Finalization of the new administrative organizational structure which formalized the functional relationships and reporting hierarchy between all components of the University. Increased enrollment of students at the University, and for the year 2002-2003, an increase of 10% over the year 2000-2001. This positive trend is the result of using additional resources to support improved marketing of the University to targeted populations in the territory, the Eastern Caribbean and in the United States. This accomplishment is the result of a coordinated team effort among the academic enrolment and student affairs areas. 4 Enhanced visibility of the University through collaborative and coordinated programs that engaged governmental agencies, the public schools, and national organizations. One outstanding activity was the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Awareness Days on both campuses. Continued media coverage that promoted and heightened public awareness, locally as well as nationally, of some of the activities and initiatives of the University. Prominent among these were the Paradise Jam Basketball Tournament, WSTA radio program with faculty discussing UVI programs, the Nursing Leaders Lecture Series, and the Eastern Caribbean Center Health Insurance Survey. Faculty, Students and Staff Achievements Faculty and students have been actively engaged in research projects that provide opportunities to showcase students’ accomplishments and demonstrate faculty commitment to mentoring students. Several such activities resulted in students receiving national awards for their work. Faculty from the Education, Social Sciences, and Science and Mathematics Divisions were actively engaged in collaborative program development with the VI Department of Education and the VI Board of Education in an effort to enhance the performance of students who are recruited by the University. 5 Faculty also collaborated with the Department of Human Services to improve mathematics instruction and enhance teacher preparation programs. Faculty from the Social Science and Science and Mathematics Divisions have published books, articles, and papers that bring acclaim not only to individual faculty members, but also to the University as a proponent of scholarly research. Faculty from the Nursing Division were engaged in activities to promote an improved UVI image through student prevention and health promotion projects and health screenings in the community. Student Affairs staff were engaged in similar programs that brought awareness to the community about HIV/AIDS and drugs and alcohol use. Students participated as peer health educators and peer counsellors and made presentations on topics such as self-esteem and teenage pregnancy. Faculty, students and staff collaborated to present workshops and training on such timely topics as drugs and violence, campus security, CPR skills, and upgrading systems to ensure efficient emergency communication operations. Students enrolled in the UVI Workforce and Economic Development Institute (WEDI) program were awarded certificates of completion. Several entered internships while others were offered permanent positions. The WEDI program has relocated from an off-site location to the St. Thomas Campus. 6 Students and community members with disabilities continue to benefit from the programs offered by the Virgin Islands University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEDD). As always, the reports that follow provide the details and corroborating evidence that the administration continues to work diligently in response to the Boards directives. Recent items of note are not reflected in the report but will be presented in a detailed update. OFFICE OF THE CHANCELLOR ST. THOMAS AND ST. CROIX CAMPUSES Strategic Thrust 1 Increase the number of collaborative programs with the Department and Board of Education intended to improve the quality of education in the territory. St. Thomas Campus Education Division The Education Division and Special Education component of the VI Department of Education are collaborating to develop a program that would improve the quality of education of Special Education teachers in the territory. This initiative is in keeping with the demands of the No Child Left Behind Act of Congress. Three Division faculty are part of the Commissioner’s Invitational Forum for Teachers and Support Staff Licensure and Certification. 7 Humanities Division English The university now participates, through successful grant writing, in the Virgin Islands Writing Project (NWP). This project enhances pedagogical skills of public school teachers through a plethora of writing/research projects. Student Affairs The Family Life Center (FLC) has a collaborative relationship with the VI Department of Education. The program is designed to reduce or eliminate violence among the participants and their families which ultimately helps to improve the quality of education. The FLC started its 2002-2003 academic years’ program on October 7 with 40 participants from the Kirwan Elementary School. This year, unlike in previous years, a significant percentage of the participants are Hispanics. During this period, FLC has also collaborated with the Enid Baa Library, which provides at least 40 books per month for students. St. Croix Campus Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) GLOBE is a hands-on international environmental science and education program for children 5-18 years old. Teachers and students work together to collect data in a scientifically rigorous fashion and transmit it via the Internet to a 8 central facility. The data is used by research scientists in ongoing scientific studies, as well as by students in other schools around the world. The scientists correspond with the students, and students can communicate with their peers around the world. Because the data is used by research scientists, the teachers (and ultimately, the students) must be trained in how to carry out the research observations properly so the data may be of use. The first GLOBE teachers’ workshop was held on October 24-25, 2002. It was coordinated by the Science and Mathematics Division, and Central High School, St. Croix. The Division also presented material to the workshop participants. Ten teachers were trained in GLOBE protocols with elementary, junior, and senior high school teachers were represented among the participants. The teachers who have completed the workshop will have the materials and knowledge to use the GLOBE program in their classrooms. Specifically, they will know how to select appropriate study sites, how to take measurements carefully and on a regular schedule, how to submit the data, and how to use GLOBE systems on the Internet to explore and communicate with other schools and GLOBE scientists. Additionally, they will gain experience in performing some of the learning activities. Ultimately, the teachers should be able to guide the students to do their own investigations. 9 A general divisional meeting of full and part-time faculty was held on December 16. Many important policy issues relating to academic quality and maintaining academic integrity and standards were addressed and there were demonstrations of strong support for collaboration and great potential for working together on community outreach efforts. There was particular concern regarding collaborating with the schools to bring about improved performance of students who form the pool from which UVI students are recruited. Strategic Thrust 2 Emphasize research programs that focus on local and regional social and economic problems. St. Thomas Campus Education Division Division faculty completed the project on “Remarkable Big Trees of Cultural Interest in the USVI.” The project was funded by the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance. Project outcomes can be viewed at www.bigtrees. Social Science Division Publications Division faculty published a book chapter entitled “Re-exportation and Musical Traditions Surrounding the African Masquerade”. The paper was based on regional problems and challenges and was published by the University Press of Florida. The second publication was a book chapter entitled “The Military of 10 Guyana” in Lilian Bobea’s Soldados Y Ciudadanos en El Caribe, and the third publication was an article entitled “The Defunct Dominica Defence Force and Two Attempted Coups on the Nature Island,” Caribbean Studies, vol. 30, No. 1. St. Croix Campus National Award At the Annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) - Undergraduate Programs Conference on Undergraduate Research, there were approximately 110 oral presentations and approximately 75 poster presentations. UVI students from both campuses participated in six poster presentations and earned the University three awards. These awards were great examples of initiatives to support Strategic Thrust 3 demonstrating collaboration between the Business and Science and Mathematics Divisions. St. Croix Campus: Sabrina Valdivia, Science and Mathematics Division received first prize in the Electrical Engineering Electronics category. St. Thomas Campus: Ranan Mustafa and Yasmine Salem, Science and Mathematics Division received third prize in Biology. Johny Castor received fourth prize in Biology. 11 Strategic Thrust 3 Increase the collaboration and cooperation across organizational units. St. Thomas Campus Education Division The Education and Science and Mathematics Divisions developed a course on the teaching of Science in Elementary Schools. Student Affairs The drug prevention program is designed to educate the University community about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs. The work is spearheaded by the drug prevention committee comprised of faculty, staff, students and administrators from both campuses. The success of the program depends on the cooperation of its members who present various organizational units. In October 2002 the drug prevention committee hosted a forum on Drugs and Violence which had widespread support. This workshop was held in response to the increase in crime in the Virgin Islands. Faculty members encouraged their students to attend, and St. Croix staff encouraged students on St. Croix to attend as well. There were approximately 90 students, community persons, faculty and staff in attendance. The panelists included a Psychiatrist, two parents who lost their children to acts of violence, and one law enforcement officer. The Health Services Supervisor conducted Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training along with the St. Croix Health Supervisor for the Security 12 Department on St. Croix. This is an example of collaboration and cooperation between campuses. St. Croix Campus In excellent examples of inter-campus collaboration, the Health Services Supervisor from St. Thomas came to the St. Croix campus to conduct CPR training for all employees for whom such training is necessary. There was no one qualified to do the training on the campus and approximately 11 members of the Security staff and AES faculty and staff attended the training. Similarly, a faculty member from the Science and Mathematics Division on the St. Thomas campus came over to assist with identifying, labeling and recommending for disposal, various chemicals on the St. Croix campus. Both of these initiatives are necessary to ensure campus compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Strategic Thrust 4 Bring the community’s image of UVI into better alignment with its contributions to the community. St. Thomas Campus Business and Facilities Service Security / Upgrade of Emergency Communication Systems The Supervisor of the Communications Division of Information Technology and 13 the Security Chief collaborated to propose the upgrading and documentation of the entire St. Thomas campus communication system to provide for more efficient emergency communication. Nursing Division The Division activities that engaged the community and projected positive images of UVI included: Student prevention and health promotion projects and activities. These included: 1) a day at the TuTu Park Mall addressing child safety issues. There were poster displays, demonstrations, literature and the opportunity for the public to interact with the students, and 2) providing health screening at the Agricultural and Food Fair for hypertension, cholesterol, and hyperglycemia. Science and Mathematics Division During November, UVI hosted National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Awareness Days on St. Thomas and St. Croix. During a three day period, approximately 1,500 to 2,000 students were exposed to NASA activities, including astronauts, astrophysicists, career opportunities and science in space. In addition to the NASA Awareness Days, the Division of Science and Mathematics continues to have Saturday Science Academies and Mentoring Programs on both the St. Thomas and the St. Croix campuses. 14 Social Science Division A faculty member gave the feature address at the annual conference of teachers in St. Croix and carried out four (4) workshops for teachers on St. Croix and St. Thomas, respectively. The 3rd Isaac Dookhan Memorial Lecture was held on November 21 and 22 2002 on both campuses. The speaker, Attorney Wayne James, spoke on the topic “Reacquisition of the Material Culture of the Virgin Islands.” The event on St. Thomas was attended by 110 persons, including many from the community. St. Croix Campus National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) DAY: NASA Day on St. Croix on November 20 was a tremendous success and the visiting representatives from NASA and partner institutions have pledged greater support for UVI. The ribbon cutting ceremony opened admittance to the NASA Room which is fitted with twenty wireless lap top computers. There were representatives from the high schools and various other educational agencies. Due to the overwhelming popularity of the event and requests for elementary and junior high school participation, the afternoon session was switched to the St. Croix Educational Complex to accommodate these participants. The event achieved all objectives. 15 Through the extremely generous donation of several donors: the Fields Group, the St. Croix campus participated in the Crucian Festival parade for the first time in 9 years. Through the theme of the entry, “From the school house to the Technology Park, UVI educating throughout time for a golden future,” the campus showcased UVI’s role in educating our community for the changing jobs available to them in the Research and Technology Park. The Health Services Supervisor and one Student Peer Health Educator were elected as voting members of the territory’s Community Planning Group for HIV/AIDS. This representation allows for their interaction with other community agencies charged with informing the community about the various kinds of treatments available for individuals infected with HIV/AIDS. The Health Services Supervisor has also partnered with the Division of Mental Health, the Bureau of Public Safety, and the Drug Demand Reduction Coalition to promote marketing strategies for recognizing the ill effects of alcohol and drug use in association with contraction of lifelong diseases. Student Peer Health Educators have organized public presentations to the Juanita Gardine School and the Virgin Islands Perinatal Partnership Annual Meeting to present on topics related to self esteem and teenage pregnancy, respectively. 16 The Office of Student Activities, the Golden Key International Honour Society and several of the student clubs sponsored a number of programs aimed at raising community awareness on issues ranging from developing political consciousness to addressing poverty and community need. These included a voter registration drive, a senatorial forum, a food and clothing drive and a Kiddie Health Summit at the Ricardo Richards Elementary School. These activities also assisted students to develop and hone their planning and organizational skills. Strategic Thrust 8 Build a diversified financial base, which balances operating funding needs against long-term financial requirements for sustainable growth. St. Thomas Campus Nursing Division The Division has partnered with the University of South Florida (USF) through their Center for AIDS Education and Training (F/CAETC) to provide HIV/AIDS training to health professionals. The subcontract grant is in the amount of $114,000. Strategic Thrust 9 Align UVI programs with the vision and enrollment and revenue generating criteria, taking advantage of its physical, cultural and human resources. St. Croix Campus The Program Alignment Task Force met its deadline to develop criteria for program alignment by December 2002. The criteria development by the Task Force have been shared with all faculty for critique and input. 17 Strategic Thrust 10 Meet customer and territorial needs for non-degree and non-traditional programs. St. Thomas Campus Upward Bound The Upward Bound Program has served 70 students during the academic year 2001-2002 and 55 during the 2002 summer session. Nineteen of those students have enrolled in post-secondary institutions for Fall 2002. One student joined the military and one student will attend UVI in the spring 2003 semester. Of the nineteen matriculating students, eight are attending the St. Thomas campus and two are attending the St. Croix campus. The forty-nine non-seniors who participated in the program were promoted to the next grade level at the end of the program year. St. Croix Campus Associate in Applied Science Degree in Process Technology In the Process Technology (PRT) Coordinator’s efforts to make the Associate in Applied Science Process Technology (AAS PRT) Program a viable one for students and to meeting the recruitment demands at HOVENSA, a plan to repeat all previously offered courses while introducing new courses every semester was worked through and is being implemented. As a result, the three 18 courses offered this semester and the three that would normally be offered during the Spring will all be offered next semester, resulting in the offering of six PRT Courses during the Spring of 2003. This has been made possible through tremendous effort on the part of the coordinator who did a commendable job. Strategic Thrust 11 Develop unique programmatic identities for each campus. St. Croix Campus The campus Chancellor has continued exploring the possibility of beginning a Senior Reserve Office Training Corps (SROTC) program to the campus. Meetings were held with the University of Puerto Rico and with the South East Region to discuss program requirements. An official and several members of the SROTC program in Puerto Rico also visited the St. Croix campus to assess the feasibility of the program on the campus. A preliminary grant to support the development of physical spaces to accommodate the program was submitted to the Innovative Readiness Training Program (IRTC). Strategic Thrust 12 Improve the student experience through improved academic programs, support systems and student services. St. Thomas Campus Business and Facilities Services The Business and Facilities Services Department in conjunction with Banco Popular are coordinating the placement of an ATM machine on the St. Thomas 19 campus in early Spring 2003 as a pilot community outreach program of Banco Popular. Additionally, Business and Facilities Services, in conjunction with Student Housing on both campuses, are proposing to implement a debit card program on both campuses. It is envisioned that the debit card will be initially utilized for a meal plan program. This is the first phase of a plan to implement a one card system on both campuses. The Speech, Communication and Theatre (SCT) area has witnessed an increase in student population enrollment. This increases revenue contribution and, will serve to increase the graduating class size. Nursing Division The Nurse Leader Lectureship Series supported by the Bennie and Martha Benjamin Foundation brings important nurse leaders to UVI as role models and to interact with our students. This semester’s leader was Dr. Catherine Alecia Watlington Georges, a native Virgin Islander, who has been nationally and internationally recognized for her work in advancing minorities in nursing. Science and Mathematics Division The Science and Mathematics Division supports research opportunities for our science and mathematics majors. Much of the research is facilitated on campus with science and mathematics faculty, while other students, under the guidance of divisional faculty, applied to and attended off campus research experiences. 20 During the fall 2002, the division hosted a Fall Research Symposium, showcasing the work of approximately 30 undergraduate students. In addition, students were able to travel to national conferences and present their work. Students also presented at the Annual National Science Foundation (NSF) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) -Undergraduate Programs Research Conference and captured first, third and fourth place prizes. The development of the UVI Emerging Caribbean Scientists Programs has afforded students the opportunity to interact with visiting scientists who spoke on their research as well as graduate school opportunities; gave seminars on how to apply to graduate schools; and how to conduct poster and oral presentations. Students benefited from MCAT and GRE preparation courses given by Princeton Review. Student Affairs The Student Activities Office organized a trip to Virgin Gorda on Veterans Day. Ninety-six persons participated, including faculty, students and staff. This was a cultural and historical experience for many students, particularly those from the US Virgin Islands and the US Mainland. Gubernatorial Forum – The Student Government Association (SGA) sponsored a gubernatorial forum in October 2002. This was designed to encourage civic 21 responsibility of students and provide an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to hear from the candidates running for the highest office in the territory. St. Croix Campus Mathematics In an effort to serve all students, mathematics tutors have continued to be available at the Freshman Lab for tutoring services, serving both day and evening students. Members of the Math Boosters Student Club have also been available to assist with tutoring. There is continued concern over the failure rate of the developmental math students in MAT 023, MAT 024. The recent reform in the structure of the Math Skills courses places greater academic demands on students who, despite the support offered, are often reluctant to devote the time and effort needed to result in their success. This problem is intensified by the fact that so many of the students are so far below college level course work. Although passing rates are not high, the division hopes to succeed in producing students who better understand the concepts. Student Affairs The Student Affairs department has been involved in data collection to determine student satisfaction with the services provided. Preliminary analysis of the data indicates increase in the frequency of use of some specific services such as student employment and health services. In the area of student employment there was a 7% increase from 65 to 72 participants in one academic year. The 22 Program Coordinator has also implemented a training series designed to improve student workforce readiness and marketable skills as well as provide their supervisors with information to enhance the understanding of office operations. Each semester students are now required to attend in-service training workshops. Topics covered during these training sessions include: Telephone Skills, Time Management, Customer Relations: Defining Who is a Customer and Time Sheet Management. This semester also, a “Supervisor’s Orientation Workshop” was created to provide supervisors with the philosophical framework and expected standards of the Student Employment Program. Supervisors in attendance were encouraged to also share their “best practices” in the workplace that foster the students’ professional development. A survey instrument was also used to determine student and patron satisfaction with the food service. Student volunteers were used to collect data and to devise strategies for providing feedback on the recommendations. These volunteers worked with the Residence Hall Director and an Ad-hoc Food Service Committee. Town hall styled meetings were held in the Residence Hall with the students and the Owners/Managers of the Food Service to discuss strategies that could be easily implemented within the semester. These series of events lead to visible changes in food selection choices and operational management. In line with the objectives of the Peer Health Education Program, the Student Representative on the Board of Trustees wrote, casted, and performed an anti- 23 drug and alcohol play in recognition of National Red Ribbon Week. The Health Services Supervisor has continued to be involved in activities to disseminate information on alcohol, drugs, general wellness, nutrition and sexual health through venues such as the Freshman Development Courses (FDS), Personal Life Skills courses (PLS) and the Residence Halls. The Counseling and Placement Office successfully recruited 11 new student volunteers to be trained as Peer Counselors. The new core of students were trained by a member of the Humanities faculty, Counseling and Placement staff from both campuses and members of the community that included representatives of the Interfaith Coalition, Women’s Coalition and the Department of Education. Examples of the topics addressed during the four day training program included: “Team Building Techniques, Listening Skills Development, Confidentiality, Conflict Resolution, Crisis Intervention, Career Assessments and Development, Self-Esteem, Spirituality In Counseling and Understanding Multi- Culture and Diversity Issues.” Students were required to pass a written and oral assessment to receive certification upon completion of the training. The Office of Student Activities has continued to work with the various clubs and student groups as well as the Student Government to provide a series of creative programs to enrich the life of its clients and to upgrade their skills. Such programming this semester included Happy Hour, Movie Nights, Gospel Fest, College Night at Glimpses, Grand Showtime Night, Talent Show and 24 Male/Female Auction, Fun Day and Block Party, Fall Basketball Tournament, Pool Tournament, Accounting Study Group, Resume Writing Workshop, Ms. UVI Contestant Retreat, and Sunset Horseback Riding, Institutional Visitation Policy Change One significant example geared toward improving student experiences through improved student services stemmed from the review and implementation of a new “Co-ed Visitation Policy.” Campus residents, supported by the SGA lobbied for the changes to the policy that had been in existence throughout the 40-year history of the university. The guiding principles were developed and approved by Cabinet and the revised policy took effect on the St. Croix campus in October 2002. The Co-ed Visitation Policy change is in keeping with many other colleges and universities who support the widely accepted ideological approach to residential living. This ideology simply affirms that the Residence Hall should foster a “living/learning environment.” Creating such an environment where students are expected to be responsible members of a larger community helps to prepare them for citizenship in the larger global society. Strategic Thrust 13 Direct the composition of enrollments to achieve revenue generation targets using directed marketing programs. St. Croix Campus The Nursing Division is developing plans for the aggressive marketing of the nursing program on the U.S. mainland. The national shortage of nurses has led 25 to too few slots for the numbers of applicants to nursing programs nationally. The St. Croix Chancellor in collaboration with Director of Enrollment Management, have established a relationship with the Virgin Islands Army National Guard (VING) and have been participating with them in recruitment in the high schools. VING outlines the opportunities of a military career, the scholarships available and UVI in turn emphasizes the academic and other programs available to those students choosing this route to academic qualification. The Director of Admissions has also participated in these recruitment efforts. The St. Croix campus held an open house on November 27. This was an opportunity to share information on our programs. The Student Affairs Division was represented at the open house by the Counseling Supervisor, the Student Activities Supervisor and the Residence Hall Director. The Residence Hall Director continues to respond to invitations from public educational institutions. Some of the promotional and marketing materials used during these sessions were developed through the Counseling and Placement Office’s partnership with the School to Work Career Initiative, and one of the brochures is titled, Does Your Future Include College. 26 Strategic Thrust 14 Improve the university’s ability to attract and retain faculty and staff by enhancing the work experience, opportunities for professional development and satisfaction. St. Thomas Campus Business and Facilities Service Upgrade and Development of Security Staff In an effort to upgrade and improve the University’s security department, the Chief of Security obtained approval from the Virgin Islands Police Department for UVI’s participation in a series of training programs at the Virgin Islands Police Training Academy, on St. Thomas. The first training session ended on December 12 and consisted of forty-eight hours of classroom and physical training. Other training sessions are planned as part of an ongoing program to promote the professional development of the security staff. Science and Mathematics Division Division faculty presented a paper entitled "Mobile Location" at the IASTED International Conference on Communications, Internet, and Information Technology (CIIT 2002) on November 20, 2002. The paper presented an algorithm for determining the physical location of a mobile phone making a 911 call by utilizing time difference of arrival (TDOA) information to create a least squares solution to a set of hyperbola equations. This was a joint investigation with the University of Denver. A second faculty member has produced three papers from his sabbatical: 27 1. "Derived sequences" (with Graeme Cohen) to appear in the Journal of Integer Sequences. 2. "Almost prime twin prime twin triplets" submitted to the Journal of Recreational Mathematics. 3. "Notes on perfect totient numbers" to be submitted to a journal shortly. St. Croix Campus An audio conference was organized to provide staff with information about federal government mandates on compliance with the Clery Act. Representatives from Counseling and Placement, Residence Life, and Campus Security attended. This conference provided participants with a brief overview of the legislative history and relevant amendments that affect the campus, as well as how crime statistics are logged, reported and used, who must report crime statistics and what must be reported. It provided an outline on the Department of Education's enforcement of the legislation, what happens when campuses do not comply, how campus reviews are conducted, clarified the reporting of off-campus crimes and addressed various other areas of concern, including the resources available to institutions seeking to improve compliance. A retired faculty member who previously served as chair of the Nursing division 28 will serve as a part-time faculty member for the spring semester in place of a nursing faculty member on leave. The campus is fortunate to have a faculty member of her caliber teaching again. Strategic Thrust 17 Improve student learning through utilization of technology in the teaching process. St. Thomas Campus Business and Facilities Service Instructional Support In an effort to upgrade the delivery of classroom instruction, in early fall the St. Thomas Chancellor provided funding support for the purchase of audio/visual equipment to all divisions on the St. Thomas campus. This is part of an ongoing program for the phased development of “smart classrooms” and an improved delivery of classroom instruction through advanced state of the art classroom technology. Science and Mathematics Division This Fall the Science and Mathematics Division computerized five SCI 200 (a general education science course) laboratory activities. Students collect data from experiments using two workstation computers. Data is transferred over a local network to three other computers for analysis and formulation of results. The goal is for all students to have results prepared before leaving the laboratory. 29 The Division through its National Institute of Health (NIH) supported Minority Bio- Medical Research Support / Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement (MBRS RISE) program, provided approximately $21,000 to purchase four new stereo microscopes and a digital camera for fluorescence microcopy to enrich instruction in Biology. Strategic Thrust 18 Upgrade the university’s physical, technological and human resources to enable the achievement of the vision and goals. St. Thomas Campus Business and Facilities Service Deferred Maintenance The Physical Plant Department continues to address the deferred maintenance needs of the campus through funds provided under the 1999 Bonds Refinancing Capital program. Through the limited funds available, efforts have been made to improve the exterior aesthetics of buildings. The aesthetics and ambiance of classroom space continues to be addressed through the retiling of floors and ceilings, painting of walls, and the replacement of worn chalkboards and the white boards throughout the campus. The refurbishing of some office spaces has been completed to provide for more conducive working environments. Science and Mathematics Division 30 The Science and Mathematics Division secured a grant of $150,000 for equipment for both campuses. The equipment will be used in the Saturday Science Academies, the Summer Science Enrichment Academies, as well as in science and mathematics classes. St. Croix Campus Through the extremely generous donation of a 24’x60’ modular unit from HOVENSA, the campus is now able to physically establish some desperately needed programs on the campus. HOVENSA not only donated the unit, but took responsibility for its installation once the foundation was prepared. The unit which is pre-equipped with air-conditioning and electricity, will be used to accommodate a Reading/Writing Lab, a Mathematics Lab and a Business Lab, as well as house the office of the physical education instructor and store the physical education equipment. These labs, equipped with the appropriate software, will allow more hands on work with students and in the case of the business lab, help to simulate a business environment. The campus offers sincere thanks to Mr. Sagabien and all employees at HOVENSA who were a part of making this happen. Another generous donation of used guard-rails from the Department of Public Works has allowed the campus to install this safety feature in a sorely needed area. 31 As an Economic Development Authority (EDA) beneficiary, the paving contractor for the recently built parking lots donated the labor for the resurfacing of what is now considered the staff parking lot. This brings the campus one step closer to completing a comprehensive plan for student, staff and visitor parking. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Strategic Thrust 18 Upgrade the university’s physical, technological and human resources to enable the achievement of the vision and goals. As part the 2002-2003 Title III grant activity “Enabling the Effective Use of Technology,” new administrative computer systems were purchased. The new systems are two IBM P650s with four 1.45 Ghz processors and over 100 GB of storage. The new systems are more powerful (faster), more reliable and more scalable. In addition to the new hardware, the purchase included Disaster Recovery functionality. Info Tech is now able to offer 24/ 7 availability, redundancy and capacity for several years of growth. The new systems provide a framework to support additional users and applications as work processes are reengineered as part of Strategic Thrust 16. Over the past several months a major upgrade of the UVI email system was conducted. Several important benefits of the new system include: Server-side 32 virus scanning and protection, greater security, increased performance, and use of Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) for authentication and user management. By using LDAP we are moving closer to the goal of a single login for all network services. The same LDAP directory is used by email, dial-in access, web and proxy access. Last Fall, thin-client technology was deployed in both the Library and Financial Aid students’ labs on the St. Thomas campus. This technology was also used in the Fall and Spring registration process. Thin-clients are a cost effective way to provide access on minimally powered computers acting as terminals. All of the software is run on a server machine so these machines require virtually no maintenance or upgrades. This project will serve as a test of the viability of more wide-spread deployment across the two campuses. During the last term, wireless networking became a reality at UVI. The first project enables the St. Thomas library staff to check out wireless network cards to students, faculty and staff for use with a wireless access point in the Library. Included in the project were: captive portal for wireless security, wireless access point, ten registered network cards, installation CD and software instructions. The access point and the wireless network cards were donated by SmartCall as part of the telephone switch upgrade last Spring. Captive portals insure a reasonable level of security is maintained. One portal is on the St. Croix campus 33 and two portals are on St. Thomas. They will support the Libraries and the new wireless classrooms that are part of a recent NASA grant. Wireless connections are tightly controlled, encrypted and authenticated against the LDAP server. OFFICE OF THE PROVOST Strategic Thrust 1 Increase the number of collaborative programs with the Department and Board of Education intended to improve the quality of education in the territory. In collaboration with the Department of Education a grant was submitted to the National Science Foundation in early January 2003. The VI Math Partnership would bring UVI faculty from math and sciences together with the territorial Department of Education to improve mathematics instruction in VI public schools, impacting teacher preparation program, practicing teachers, and 4th to 6th grade students. The grant request is for approximately $750,000 per year for five years. In collaboration with the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, a sixth cohort in Inclusive Early Childhood Education training was initiated by the Virgin Islands University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEED). Scholarships were provided for most of the participants through the Child Care Development Fund and Head Start Program. Collaboration with the Department of Education saw a new cohort admitted to pursue the Para Educator Certificate Program initiated by VIUCEDD. Tuition was 34 paid by the Department of Education, Division of Special Education. The program was created to help the VI Department of Education comply with the Disabilities Education Act. Positive Behavioral Support initiative by VIUCEDD has begun implementation in the Bertha C. Boschulte and Evelyn Williams schools. It is hoped that through the district offices of the Superintendents of Education, technical assistance and training would be provided. Strategic Thrust 2 Emphasize research programs that focus on local and regional social and economic problems. The Eastern Caribbean Center received an award of $296,850 to conduct a Health Insurance Survey intended to measure the extent of the VI population that does not have health insurance. The Center for Marine and Environmental Studies received $131,223 from National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) for a project in coral reef monitoring of VI reefs in collaboration with the Department of Planning and Natural Resources Coastal Zone Management. A second award is from the Division of Environmental Protection for up to $40,000 annually for nutrient analyses of coastal waters. 35 The Agricultural Experiment Station’s Aquaculture Program received a $5,000 subcontract from Rutgers University as part of the $174,000 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant. Strategic Thrust 3 Increase the collaboration and cooperation across organizational units. The Center for Marine Environmental Studies assisted the Science and Mathematics Division with their SCI 100 class by providing field trips to the Wetlands, use of ultrasound to monitor grouper sex ratios, presentations on Non Point Source (NPS) pollution and marine debris. The Eastern Caribbean Center’s Conservation Data Center (CDC) staff conducted a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day display at Cancryn School exposing geography students to the use of Geographic Information Systems and showing how the system can be used to accomplish various tasks. Strategic Thrust 4 Bring the community’s image of UVI into better alignment with its contributions to the community. The largest NCAA Division 1 Basketball Tournament was held during Thanksgiving week at the Sports and Fitness Center. The exposure that Paradise Jam tournament generated was advantageous to the University and territory as a whole. The games were broadcast live in the participants countries, 36 and the largest contingent of print media in the three year history of Paradise Jam were in attendance. The Sports and Fitness Center also hosted a number of shows and events to include: (1) the popular Mary Mary Concert, (2) the NASA Awareness Days project which brought NASA officials, an astronaut, and other NASA scientists to interact with local public and private school students, educators, and University community on both islands, and (3) a Martial Arts tournament. A Memorandum of Understanding was executed between ECC and the Cooperative Extension Service for the publication of A Field Guide to Vegetation and Marine Communities of the Virgin Islands. The Center for Marine and Environmental Studies made numerous presentations to school groups and coordinated Coastweeks activities, which were intended to increase awareness about marine debris. VIUCEDD held a two-day conference on self-advocacy for people with disabilities and their families entitled, Voices that Count, on both St. Croix and St. Thomas, September 24-25 and October 1-2, 2002, respectively. 37 • • • • Strategic Thrust 8 Build a diversified financial base, which balances operating funding needs against long-term financial requirements for sustainable growth. A chart which details grant activity over the period is presented at the end of the report. Grants of special note received to date include the following: VI Writing Project -- Strategies to Achieve Results -- Parris $35,000 St. Croix Nursing Program -- Marsh $381,595 Upward Bound -- Rhymer-Rohan $3,032,957 Inclusive Early Childhood Education -- Habtes $70,091 The Title III Grant Award of $3,772,851 from the US Department of Education, under the Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program was received. The areas included in this award are Information Technology, Enrollment Management, Community and Professional Development and Outcomes Assessment. The funding level for each is as follows: Information Technology $801,946; Community and Personal Development $340,635; Enrollment Management $222,476; Outcome Assessments $30,150. Strategic Thrust 10 Meet customer and territorial needs for non-degree and non-traditional programs. In October, thirty nine (39) students territory wide were awarded certificates of completion from the UVI Workforce and Economic Development Institute (WEDI). Of the trainees who completed the program, 69% were placed in internship 38 positions and 30% received permanent job offers to date. The weak economy on St. Croix impacted the employment of the trainees there. UVI was approved as a test center by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). Certification exams can now be administered on both the St. Thomas and St. Croix campuses. UVI is the only NALA approved test center in the region. In early Spring, a preparation course of legal assistants to take the national certifying test is scheduled to begin. To date, some 15 registrants have signed up for the course to be delivered on both islands. Strategic Thrust 12 Improve the student experience through improved academic programs, support systems and student services. A new advanced degree program in School Psychology was initiated by VIUCEDD. A collaborative effort with faculty from the Universitíes of South Florida, North Carolina and Winthrop was worked out to deliver the best possible training to our students. VIUCEED continues to operate the Computer and Technology Related Resource Centers for individuals with disabilities. The Center is utilized by UVI students as well as members of the community. There have been approximately 380 individual visits to the St. Thomas Center and 262 to the St. Croix Center for the period July 1-December 17, 2002. 39 Strategic Thrust 15 Ensure that the academic quality of UVI programs is equal to a comparable group of competitive institutions. A method to assess the outcomes of the General Education program was developed and is scheduled for implementation in 2003. A Programs Assessment tool was also developed by a consultant to assess the programs at UVI. A first run was begun in late Fall 2002 semester. Data are still being collected for the assessment by the Office for Institutional Research. --- 40 ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE Capital Projects All planned Phase I Major Capital Projects on St. Thomas are underway. On the St. Croix campus site improvements and upgrades to existing facilities are underway: Completion of the new St. Thomas Dining Pavilion is anticipated for late Spring completion and the Harvey Center for the Fall of 2003. On both campuses major energy related projects are currently underway making UVI more self sufficient and reducing energy use and costs. Energy conservation efforts on both campuses over the past year earned UVI an award for energy conservation leadership as well as over $325,000 in grants for lighting upgrades utilizing both conventional and solar fixtures. The central chiller system now being implemented at the upper campus on St. Thomas will yield major financial and system quality rewards. The new chiller installed at the St. Croix Evans Center has already improved conditions on that campus. In addition to conservation, new standby power generating systems are underway for both campuses. A December 2002 draft of the Master Plan is currently being revised following a review by the Cabinet in mid-January 2003. Once revised the Master Plan will be reviewed again prior to formal submission to the Board. 41 St. Croix Campus Parking and Paving The new parking lot adjacent to the Research and Extension Center was completed and is being landscaped. There are 200 additional new or improved parking spaces on the St. Croix campus. The rain runoff from the larger lot is being reclaimed and re-directed to supplement the Evans Center ponds, reducing the quantity of WAPA water required. Additional paving was completed near the tennis courts to reduce runoff on to the courts. Building B and Physical Plant Operations Center Building B has been returned to service and is being used as offices and instructional space by Extension Services. A Physical Plant shop, offices and work area have been completed South of “B” utilizing the relocated project manager’s trailer and new construction. A nursery is in development which will benefit the on going landscaping program on the campus. Hovensa Modular Office-West Campus A gift of a modular office unit (24 x 60) was accepted from Hovensa. It is now located on the South East slope of the West Campus where it will be utilized by the Athletic Staff as a campus office and storage area. 42 Emergency Standby Power Possibilities The 1 Megawatt Generator that was being utilized on St Thomas campus has been replaced by a larger unit. It is anticipated that after inspection the generator will be relocated to the St. Croix campus. The unit has the potential to serve the entire campus including any potential Research and Technology Park (RTP) startup facilities. At present the St. Croix campus is served by a number of small generators. Site Lighting Solar Project Proposals are currently being solicited for solar powered site lighting for the campus. UVI has received a grant for $275,000 from Virgin Islands Energy Office/ Department of Planning and Natural Resources (VIEO/DPNR) in conjunction with the project. Academic Center Continuing Upgrades An aggressive approach is underway on minor building improvements, that will address flooring, lighting, furnishings and general improvements. Funding sources are being sort that will permit the exterior painting of the main academic buildings including the R&E Center, Evans Center and the North West Wing. Space use is being reevaluated to accommodate revised program needs, particularly with regard to Science and Computer labs. 43 St. Croix Energy Conservation Projects Projects have been initiated which conserve water and energy and will result in savings by the University on WAPA expenditures. Efforts continue in using motion sensors on classroom lighting, more efficient water collection and pumping systems. Aggressive energy management efforts in St. Croix in terms of monitoring AC operation and refining controls are to be commended. St. Thomas Campus Power Distribution Improvements In September the University purchased a 2 Megawatt Generator to accommodate the increased need for additional backup standby power. To accommodate new power loads and permit the generator upgrade from 1 Megawatt to 2 Megawatts it was necessary to upgrade and/or relocate seven transformers and some underground cables. Installation began mid-November. The new generator is in place and has been successfully tested. Problems with a switch gear are currently being addressed and a replacement switch has been ordered. Full backup power is anticipated by February 1, 2003. 44 Upper Campus Academic Building Improvements During 2002 major upgrades took place to the four upper campus academic buildings. The upgrades included fixture reconfiguration and replacement of over five hundred lighting fixtures, replacement windows, structural repairs to education, Chase AC upgrades, micro lab, and others. The 2003 improvements will include lighting sensors, exterior painting and AC unit upgrades in conjunction with the Central Cooling loop project. Upper Campus Central Cooling Loop A new 100 ton chiller was installed in 2002 and plans have been developed for the underground connection to the four academic buildings in Spring 2003. The balance of the funds will be used for the replacement of unit air handlers in the Academic Buildings and improved AC controls at the Upper Campus. Planning is substantially complete and proposals for installation of the underground loop will be sought in February. CA Building and AC Improvements In 2002 major work undertaken at the CA Building included exterior balcony railings, painting and roof repair and coating. Phase 1 of the AC system was completed including all new equipment and controls to two-thirds of the facility. Recent work included a new fire escape at the airport end of the building with exit link to the Little Theater completed January 23. Repair of shutters, lavatory 45 upgrades and Level 1 lobby improvements are planned for Spring 2003 with the limited available funds. Etelman House Phase 1 Improvements The facility was gutted and rebuilt. New electric service was installed, deteriorated plumbing was replaced, the eastern 2500 sq. ft. of the facility was reconfigured into a classroom, seminar room, and telescope control room. The exterior surfaces were cleaned and painted and all exterior doors were replaced. The new dome was installed and awaits the delivery of the new telescope in early 2003. Dining Pavilion Construction Framing is substantially complete at the serving section. The driveway retaining wall was completed in January. The steel for the main dining area should arrive in late Feb. Plans for the separate main kitchen are underway with a June delivery anticipated. Requests for Proposals (RFPs) have been sought from kitchen equipment suppliers. Harvey Center Administration and Conference Center Construction Plans and specifications are out for quotes. Interior demolition has already been completed with the exception of the kitchen/cafeteria. Work is phased to permit use of the kitchen/cafeteria during phase one although care must be taken regarding vehicle parking and pedestrian access. The elevator and stair shaft 46 excavations have taken place. Permits have been issued. Scheduled occupancy could be anticipated late summer of 2003. The 30,000 sq. ft. project will permit the consolidation of most services in one location and free up space for academic and community use throughout the campus. North A Dormitory Renovation Prototype North A Dormitory renovation will be completed late January. Windows were added to improve the interior lighting and ventilation, new wiring and plumbing is being installed. Overhead fans and lights are being added throughout. All doors and hardware were replaced and the interior and exterior of the building is being refinished. Energy efficient fixtures are installed, also solar water heaters. Dormitory upgrades included upgraded fire alarms, roof repairs, walk and stair repairs, new sewer drains and improved power distribution. Windows have been ordered for North B. The plan is to transfer students from “B” to “A” over the Presidents Day weekend (Feb-18,19 20) and commence renovation of “B” immediately with available funds. Administration Housing Renovation Kitchens cabinets and appliances have been replaced and windows are being added and electric service, lighting and plumbing improved to the three residences at Brewers Bay. Interiors of the three residences are being repaired and repainted. Earlier this year the rotted gutters and deteriorating roofs were 47 replaced or repaired. When the windows are completed, the exteriors will be repainted. Security gates for the driveways are being evaluated. Reichhold Center Improvements Major repairs to the Reichhold exterior have been completed. These included roof and gutter repairs, repair and resealing of the wood vertical siding. In October the cleaning and refinishing of the interior of the performance canopy was completed. This included scraping and cleaning the existing metal decking, priming the metal surfaces and repainting the surface. In addition, the interior wood siding was cleaned, repaired and resealed. While there are a number of upgrades called for particularly with the outbuildings and service buildings, these recent improvements have given a clean appearance to the main facility while eliminating many roof and siding leaks which were damaging the interior offices and spaces. University Wide Programs Energy Management and Conservation Program Consistent with the strategic goals and objectives of the University, Capital Projects is cataloging energy use on St. Thomas and St. Croix with an eye toward increased efficiency, improved maintenance and operation, and potentials for savings through controls and scheduling. In addition, the potentials for solar power, wind generation and fuel cell use are being studied with the support of the 48 VI Energy Office. In November 2002, UVI received an award for energy conservation leadership from DPNR its efforts over the past two years as well as a grant for $275,000 for Solar Site Lighting on the St. Croix. An energy management team has begun the evaluation of both campuses and has already identified some target projects and the potential savings and/or return on investment. As this data is refined a major program of implementation will be proposed. Meanwhile, energy conscious equipment and methods are being used in all capital projects underway. HAZMAT Central Depot Certified modular Hazmat storage containers will be installed on St. Thomas and on St. Croix. Two units are dedicated to receiving and storage and one unit is dedicated to waste transfer. This will be accompanied by a quarterly disposal program to remove waste from the campus and an active campus HAZMAT management program. Smaller fire rated units will be placed to accommodate weekly and monthly HAZMAT needs of specific facilities such as Marine Science, Physical Plant and AES. Each department/facility will be designating a HAZMAT contact to participate in this University wide program Welcome Center - Information Kiosks The University is awaiting the CZM approval for the kiosk construction. The units are to be located opposite the main entrance on St. Thomas and along Palm 49 Drive on St. Croix and will contain large scale informational maps, directions and notices of events. The displays will be managed by Public Relations. On St. Croix plans have been made to construct a cistern under the kiosk and reclaim surface runoff which will be pumped back to the ponds to reduce WAPA water charges to the University. Solar powered lighting is being incorporated into the plans. Master Plan Development Since the early 1960’s the University has undergone significant changes physically and programmatically and throughout its history UVI has been following a series of programs and master plans which have controlled use and forced planning and evaluation of options. Although dramatically affected by growth as well as natural disasters, UVI has continued to improve its facilities and uncover options to respond to its perceived needs. During the past eighteen months UVI has been conducting a master plan study to insure that its course is consistent with the changing needs of the institution. At present the document is undergoing critique and revisions prior to submission to the UVI community for questions and comments. 50 INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Strategic Thrust 8 Build a diversified financial base, which balances operating funding needs against long-term financial requirements for sustainable growth. Annual Giving Fund In support of this thrust, the UVI Annual Giving Fund has raised $211,368.84 (September 1, 2002 – January 8, 2003). Of this total, $210,728.94 is in restricted and unrestricted gifts and $629.90 is in-kind contributions from a total of 304 gifts. An additional $15,827.02 is expected from outstanding pledges to the Alumni Phonathon. A generous bequest of $89,892.69 was received from the estate of Doris Green for the Annual Fund with an additional bequest of $89,892.69 being earmarked for the Foundation for the University of the Virgin Islands. As part of its 2002-2003 Action Plan, which focuses on increasing donations from both alumni and Economic Development Commission (EDC) companies, the Annual Giving Program along with the President’s Office sponsored a special reception for major donors and EDC company representatives on December 12, 2002 at The Grand Galleria, St. Thomas. A similar reception took place on St. Croix at The Buccaneer Hotel on January 29, 2003. The Buccaneer underwrote the cost of the St. Croix reception. Direct mail solicitation post cards featuring successful UVI alumni were mailed to over 8,000 persons on the UVI donor database. 51 Foundation for the University of the Virgin Islands The Foundation has secured $103,592. 69 in cash gifts from September 1, 2002 – January 8, 2003. Of this total, $95,992.69 is in unrestricted gifts and $13,600 is in restricted gifts. As mentioned above, a generous bequest of $89,892.69 from the estate of Doris Green was received. Donations totaling $13,600 have been made to the FUVI in memory of Kirk Grybowski and the Grybowski Family Endowment Fund. UVI Capital Campaign During this time period (September 1, 2002 –January 8, 2003) the UVI Capital Campaign reports $45,620 in gifts to the Orville Kean Fund for International Scholarships and Programs. Alumni Affairs Sustainable Development !The annual Alumni Phonathon was held during September 16 to 20, 2002. Pledges totaled $22,000.00. To date $13,516.00 has been received by the University. A pledge reminder is scheduled for mailing by February 3, 2003. The phonathon response period culminates on February 28, 2003. 52 !Administration of the Tom Joyner Foundation Scholarship Fund continued. Contributions received during this reporting period from TJF and a corporate sponsor total $88,063.00. This amount, which includes $53,063 raised by UVI, brings the total contribution to the fund to $168,017. An additional $65,400 representing corporate pledges is outstanding. The Scholarship Committee met on December 18, 2002 and selected 16 UVI students (12 resident and 4 non-resident) for scholarship awards from the TJF fund for the 2003-2004 academic year. These awards total $18,000.00. Strategic Thrust 4 Bring the community’s image of UVI into better alignment with its contributions to the community. Public Relations The Public Relations Office (PRO) is the primary source of information about the University for internal and external stakeholders. Strategic initiatives undertaken by the Public Relations office in the fall 2002 semester enhanced the University’s image locally, regionally and globally. Via news releases, media appearances, publications, advertising and a revamped Web presence, the Public Relations Office was able to bring the community’s image of UVI into better alignment with its contributions to the community. 53 In cooperation with the Science and Mathematics Division, the offices of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the United Negro College Fund ( UNCF), the UVI Public Relations Office coordinated publicity for the NASA Awareness Days that took place on the St. Thomas and St. Croix campuses in November. Public awareness of this event was key to its success. The Public Relations Office issued media alerts, press releases and developed press kits containing official NASA photographs and biographies of visiting scientists, planned and executed press conferences on both islands, scheduled media appearances and provided a photographic record of the events to NASA and the United Negro College Fund. In an effort to assist with the establishment of a clear and consistent identity for the University, the Public Relations Office planned photography sessions on both islands for representatives of Universal Digital Communications (UDCom). Over a period of two days, PRO staff guided UDCom photographers to ensure that they captured the essence of the University of the Virgin Islands on film for use in branding and marketing materials that are being developed. The Public Relations Office developed Web pages or links for the Presidential Inauguration, Senepol Symposium, Information Sharing Conference, NASA Awareness Days, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources’ presentation of an energy award to the University for solar lighting on the St. Croix campus, the University’s participation in the Crucian Christmas Festival 54 Parade, the UVI Student Government Association’s “Taste of Friendship” event on the St. Thomas campus and Paradise Jam. The Office also created, taped and distributed a 30-second radio advertisement about UVI, which was distributed to each of the visiting Paradise Jams teams, for use on their college radio stations. The Office negotiated a new UVI broadcast opportunity with WSTA radio1340 AM host Alex Randall, who discusses aspects of UVI’s curriculum with UVI faculty who are scheduled for 30 minute interviews each Wednesday and Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. Media coverage coordinated by the Public Relations Office included Middle States’ reaffirmation of UVI’s accreditation, Spring 2003 registration, the Nursing Leaders Lecture Series, Isaac Dookhan Memorial Lecture, WEDI graduation, Smartcall and Maguire Group donations, Caribbean Writer Volume 17 submissions, St. Croix solar lighting, World Food Day, Air Arrival Study, Red Ribbon Week and the ECC Health Insurance Survey. Members of the Public Relations Office staff are engaged in publicizing Charter Day events culminating in the Presidential Inauguration on March 16, 2003. In the area of publications, the Public Relations Office published monthly issues of DATELINE: UVI from October 2002 through January 2003.