Thirty-two students from the International College of the Cayman Islands have been awarded degrees, ranging from the associate’s to the master’s level.
The students, 84% of whom are Caymanian, were celebrated at a graduation ceremony, attended by the governor, premier and minister of education, held earlier this month at First Baptist Church.
Ten students received graduate degrees — six with a master of business administration, two with a master of science in management with human resources concentration, and two with a master of science in human resources management.
Another 15 students earned a bachelor’s degree — seven in business administration, three in accounting, two in finance, two in information technology, and one in human and social services.
The remaining seven received an associate of science — four in business administration, one in business, one in accounting, and one in general studies.
Valedictorian Zadaleigh Valladares earned the highest GPA of the class and now holds a bachelor of science in business and information technology. Recent ICCI graduates Anika Jefferson and Steve Miller served as masters of ceremony.
Premier André Ebanks, speaking at the graduation, told the students that they gave him hope for a bright future.
“You represent not just the present, but the promise of what is to come for our community and our nation,” he said, encouraging them to continue learning and building their skills and character.
Governor Jane Owen applauded the students’ adaptability, critical thinking and resilience.
“Your accomplishment is a testament to your determination, hard work, and ability to succeed. … Education has the power to transform lives and shape futures,” she said.
Chris Joseph, a special advisor to the ICCI board and a lecturer, gave remarks as the commencement speaker and encouraged the graduates to embrace change.
“An entrepreneurial mindset is the only way to approach the challenges in our work and lives,” Joseph said.
“Whether this future empowers humanity or divides, it will depend increasingly on you — on your curiosity, your courage, and the boldness with which you take risks to create those positive changes. It’s not about where you start — it’s about how boldly you step forward, take risks, and try things you once thought impossible.”
Ten of the graduates were government scholarship recipients and six were sponsored by an employer. Thirteen business majors were inducted into the Sigma Beta Delta international honour society.
Twenty-one of the students also completed a seminar in Cayman Islands history and culture, as part of ICCI’s mission to promote Caymanian heritage.
