246 new students enter USM,
95 per cent pursuing degrees
~ New Dean, Financial Comptroller introduced ~
PHILIPSBURG--Two hundred forty-six new students have enrolled at University of St. Martin (USM) for the new semester, which was officially declared open during a ceremony on the university grounds Tuesday evening.
Ninety-five per cent of the incoming students are pursuing degrees, USM President Josianne Fleming-Artsen told the gathering at the opening ceremony at which new Dean Ron Pribble from the United States and new Financial Comptroller Kenneth Nolan Jr. were introduced.
Pribble, who succeeds Dr. Maria Cijntje-van Enckevort who has retired, took up his new position on September 1. Nolan began a month ago. Both officials said they would be working in the best interest of the university. Pribble said part of his job was to help move USM forward with accreditation.
Education Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams said this academic year was one of hope and confidence for USM. She said a lot of work had gone into bringing the university to its present level.
A new wing comprising six classrooms is being constructed at the university to help accommodate the students who are part of the university’s teacher education programme.
“We have seen this institution grow literally from what was a dream to what it is today and it will continue to grow,” the commissioner said.
She told students the university had produced “some of the best” human resources, many of whom were contributing to St. Maarten society today.
“You who have just started your studies have some big shoes to fill because the university is known for producing some of the cream of the crop in St. Maarten. … What University of St. Martin will become is what you will make of it. Be proud of being a student of University of St. Martin. Be proud to know that not only are you contributing to the growth of the university, but to the growth of our community and know that you are contributing to the growth of a country,” she said.
The Commissioner stressed that the only way St. Maarten could achieve its goals was through education.
Fleming-Artsen said the institution was committed to facing the challenges ahead.
“University of St. Martin will play a central role in addressing the challenges in the new Country St. Maarten. Already USM has started with the Constitutional Affairs Department to assist with the dissemination of (information for) the understanding of the constitution.
“This role is crucial in developing the knowledge-based economy and for shaping our communities. Our challenge in leadership and training and in educating growing proportions of our populations in the skills needed for this country is essential,” she said. She thanked new students for “believing in” USM and challenged them to do their utmost at the institution.
“As at all academic openings and new beginnings, we commit ourselves to our students, who are our highest priority no matter where we are in our strategic planning scheme. That is why accreditation of USM stands so high on our agenda,” she said.
USM Board Chairwoman Dr. Lockie Johnson, Board Vice President Valerie Giterson-Pantophlet and Student Government Association President Lenworth Wilson were among the other speakers at the ceremony.
