USM Supports National D.E.A.R. Reading Initiative | Soualiganewsday

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) proudly opened its campus on Wednesday evening in support of the National D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) Movement, an island-wide literacy initiative led by CLIMB SXM. Community members, students, faculty, staff, and partners gathered on the USM campus for 30 minutes dedicated to reading, demonstrating that literacy is a shared responsibility and that reading can bring communities together. The event encouraged participants to step away from their daily routines, pick up a book, and simply enjoy reading. Attendees were invited to bring a book of their choice, with many choosing works by local and Caribbean authors, reinforcing the importance of celebrating the region's literary voices. Among the special guests were acclaimed St. Maarten authors Rolando Tobias and Brenda Maynard, who joined the reading session and engaged with participants throughout. Several members of the USM Student Government Association (SGA) had the unique opportunity to have their personal copies of Brenda Maynard's books signed, making the evening even more memorable. USM also welcomed representatives from Windward Islands Bank (WIB), along with members of the wider community, who joined faculty, staff, and students in demonstrating their support for literacy and lifelong learning. The university extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Yadira Boston and Dr. Delroy Pierre of CLIMB SXM for spearheading the National D.E.A.R. Movement and for inviting USM to support this meaningful initiative. "As an institution of higher education, we believe literacy forms the foundation of learning, critical thinking, and lifelong success," said Mrs. Juliana Shipley Hodge, Division Head of the General Liberal Arts and Education Programs at the University of St. Martin. "Supporting initiatives such as D.E.A.R. aligns perfectly with USM's mission to foster a culture of education, curiosity, and community engagement. It was wonderful to see people of all ages come together with one common purpose - to read." The evening highlighted USM's continued commitment to serving not only as a center for higher education but also as a community hub where education extends beyond the classroom. Through partnerships and initiatives such as the National D.E.A.R. Movement, the university continues to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and meaningful community engagement across St. Maarten. USM thanks everyone who participated and looks forward to supporting future literacy initiatives that inspire a love of reading throughout the community.