UVI to Confer 288 Degrees as Class of 2025 Celebrates Resilience, Achievement, and New Beginnings

The University of the Virgin Islands has announced that it will confer 288 degrees during its 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, which will take place on Thursday, May 15, under the tent on the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix, and on Friday, May 16, at the Elridge W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center on the Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas. Both ceremonies will begin at 1 p.m.

“It is with heartfelt joy that I congratulate each of you in UVI’s Class of 2025 on reaching this powerful and proud milestone in your journey,” said UVI President Dr. Safiya George. “This achievement marks not just the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and growth—it also marks a new beginning filled with possibility. You are leaving UVI as more than just graduates. You are leaders, innovators, and changemakers who carry with you the spirit, strength, and excellence of this institution.”

Student Speakers & Special Honors

Class of 2025 graduate Kyra Edwards, Summa Cum Laude recipient of a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, will address graduates on the Sheen Campus. Joleen Buchanan, also earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, will serve as class speaker on the Kean Campus.

UVI will also bestow Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees upon retired Brigadier General Deborah Y. Francis Howell and Brigadier General Sally F. Petty, in recognition of their exemplary military service and lasting contributions to the Virgin Islands community. A trailblazer in the Virgin Islands National Guard, Howell made history as the first woman to serve as Adjutant General, while Petty currently serves as Assistant Adjutant General of the Virgin Islands Army National Guard.

This year’s commencement keynote address will be delivered by Hill Harper, an award-winning actor, best-selling author, entrepreneur and humanitarian.