The H Lavity Stout Community College held its 32nd graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 12. (Photos by Andre ‘Shadow’ Dawson)
Education Minister Sharie de Castro has called on graduates of the H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) to embrace their roles as leaders and “solution bearers”, delivering an impassioned address during the institution’s 32nd Graduation Ceremony yesterday, June 12.
Addressing the Class of 2025 under the theme, “The Dream of a Visionary”, de Castro described graduation as “more than just crossing a stage” and said the moment represented “the passing of a torch”.
“It is a forge. A place where raw potential is shaped by fire. Sharpened by challenge and polished by knowledge,” de Castro stated.
The event, held at the Multipurpose Sports Complex, marked the 35th anniversary of the college’s founding. De Castro reminded students that they were the legacy of college founder H Lavity Stoutt, who “built this college despite the discomfort of his time, but for the possibilities of ours”.
“You are the dream he lit 35 years ago and the promise we see fulfilled today. You are the hope of the Virgin Islands,” she asserted.
A total of 145 students were approved for graduation, with 154 awards issued, including degrees and certificates. Among the graduates were 93 females and 52 males. Top academic fields included Business Administration, General Science, and Marine Technology.
De Castro singled out two students for outstanding achievement: Aniyah Williams, who earned the highest full-time GPA in General Science, and Alysha Lewis-Stevens, who topped the part-time cohort. Both were awarded $10,000 cheques from the Ministry of Education.
“Aniyah, you carry the torch with distinction,” de Castro said. “Alicia, your journey inspires us all. You, too, are a steward of this flame.”
She urged graduates to be bold in tackling global issues like climate change, justice and equity. “We live in a world with real challenges… but you are not powerless in the face of it. You are powerful because of what you’ve been given and what you’ve earned,” she explained.
Closing her address, de Castro encouraged graduates to go forward with confidence and pride in their alma mater. “Be the spark that lights change. Carry the torch. Not just with pride, but with purpose,” she said.
The ceremony also featured a keynote address by Bishop John Cline and a student response by Palesa Caesar.
The H Lavity Stout Community College held its 32nd graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 12
Copyright 2025 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
