UCC Celebrates 800 Graduates, Honours Distinguished Jamaicans, and Installs New Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor at Commencement Ceremony 2025
Graduates join in the moment during a spirited musical performance at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean’s 2025 Commencement Ceremony at the National Arena.
Kingston, Jamaica - The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) hosted its 2025 Commencement & Installation Ceremony on Sunday at the National Arena, Kingston, under the theme “Building Future Leaders, Breaking Barriers.” This distinguished occasion convened graduates, their families, members of faculty, government officials, and esteemed guests in recognition of academic achievement, exemplary public service, and a defining moment in the university’s continued evolution.
The ceremony also marked a significant boost in the university’s leadership, with the formal installation of Chancellor Professor John MacIntyre and Pro-Chancellor Professor Anthony Clayton. Their distinguished academic achievements, global expertise, and vision for the future will strengthen UCC’s capacity to uphold its standards of excellence and meet the evolving needs of higher education.
In his address to graduates and guests, Chancellor Professor MacIntyre expressed gratitude for the honour of serving and sharing his reflections on leadership and the future. “It is the greatest honour to be asked to serve as Chancellor of this remarkable university. I am deeply humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to the journey”. He further remarked, “The best leaders act on behalf of their people, not for themselves. They know the way forward because they are guided by a moral compass. That is how I have tried to live my own life, and I hope you will too. You give us hope for a brighter future, and we need your leadership to help build that better tomorrow.”
Building on this message, Pro-Chancellor Professor Clayton reflected on the profound changes graduates will face in the decades ahead and the importance of remaining adaptable. He noted, “Before 2030, you will probably need to replace or upgrade about 25 per cent of your skill set every 18 months, and by 2050 it could be as much as 75 per cent. You may think you have finished with education, but education has not finished with you.” Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in UCC’s role in preparing graduates to meet the demands of the future. “I believe the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean will emerge as one of the leading members of the next generation of universities, ready for the world of tomorrow.”
More than 800 graduates were awarded degrees across UCC’s broad academic disciplines, reflecting the diversity and strength of its programmes. The areas of study included the humanities, social sciences, business and management, law, hospitality and tourism, natural and applied sciences, technology, and health sciences. These accomplishments represent years of hard work and perseverance, and embody the university’s mission to prepare graduates to lead with integrity and contribute meaningfully to their communities, the nation, and the region.
In a moment of solemn remembrance and celebration, UCC posthumously conferred the Commonwealth Executive Master of Business Administration degree on Mr. Sean Thelwell, a beloved member of the UCC team. This honour was accepted by his daughter, Ms. Alexandria Thelwell, on his behalf. Mr. Thelwell, who passed away before completing his final term, was deeply respected for his professionalism, determination, and commitment to academic and personal excellence. To further honour his memory and impact, the University also announced the establishment of the Sean Thelwell Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship will support students pursuing studies in Logistics and Operations Management—an area in which Mr. Thelwell demonstrated both passion and promise.
Another particularly meaningful moment in the proceedings was the conferral of honorary doctorates on three distinguished Jamaicans. Dr the Honourable Peter Phillips, OJ, MP, was recognised for his decades of transformative public leadership. Dr Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, was honoured for his innovative economic stewardship and reform. Mrs M. Audrey Stewart-Hinchcliffe, CD, JP, was celebrated for her pioneering entrepreneurship, her contributions to healthcare and education, and her steadfast advocacy for women’s empowerment and social progress.
Continuing the day’s reflections, President Professor Colin Gyles commended the Class of 2025 for their perseverance and resilience, “You stand here clothed not just in your academic regalia but in the strength of perseverance and the promise of future leadership,” He highlighted the diversity of the graduating class, noting, “We have persons from all walks of life, including those who are incarcerated and pursuing education as part of their rehabilitation. This speaks to the UCC’s commitment to uplifting every member of society and creating opportunities for all.” He urged the graduates to carry forward the values they gained at UCC, reminding them, “The world needs leaders like you who are bold, courageous, innovative, yet humble, respectful, and compassionate. Break barriers not only for yourselves but for those who follow. Remember always that success is not just about climbing ladders or acquiring titles but about positioning yourselves to serve and to make a difference.”
As the Class of 2025 departed the National Arena, they left with the confidence, sense of purpose, and charge to lead with distinction, break barriers, and create lasting impact in their communities and beyond. With the installation of its new chancellery, UCC reaffirmed its position as a leading institution of higher education, committed to fostering innovation, delivering world-class education, and advancing the progress of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.
Read Gleaner Jamaica Commencement Article here.
Read Jamaica Observer article here.
