The proud group of graduates.
PHILIPSBURG--The University of St. Martin (USM) celebrated the achievements of 13 degree graduates during its Thirty-Second Commencement Exercise, recognising graduates, General Education Diploma GED recipients, English as a Second Language ESL certificate recipients, faculty members and student leaders during an evening dedicated to academic achievement.
Held under the theme "Empowered by Knowledge, Driven by Purpose," the ceremony brought together family members, friends, faculty, staff, alumni, government officials and distinguished guests to honour students who successfully completed their educational journeys.
The evening opened with remarks from President of the University of St. Martin Foundation Valerie Giterson-Pantophlet, who congratulated graduates on reaching an important milestone and encouraged them to use their education to make meaningful contributions to society.
A highlight of the ceremony was the keynote address delivered by Michael Lake, Chief Financial Officer of Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company N.V. (PJIAE) and a USM alumna. Lake shared her journey from USM student to executive leadership and encouraged graduates to pursue excellence, remain resilient and embrace lifelong learning.
The Class of 2026 was represented by Antonia Joseph Philips, who delivered the class address, reflecting on the challenges, growth, friendships and accomplishments that shaped the students' academic experiences.
A total of 13 students received degrees through USM and the University of the Virgin Islands partnership programmes.
USM awarded Associate Degrees in General Liberal Arts, Business, and Hospitality and Tourism Management.
Graduates receiving an Associate of Arts in General Liberal Arts were Zahir J. Helstone, Oprash Tillay Laurent, Marie Abigaelle Lors, Elizabeth Victoria Sirriram and Rebecca Willvina Telusma.
Associate of Arts in Business degrees were awarded to Darla Jacquet and Teresa Roberts.
Khatija Solomon received an Associate of Arts in Hospitality and Tourism Management.
Through the UVI@USM partnership, Antonia Joseph Philips and Sigorney Sahia Robinson earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in Elementary Education with Summa Cum Laude honours, while Shadira Stella Thomas graduated Magna Cum Laude in the same programme.
Rosemary Roxsana Pantophlet earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Cum Laude, while Brittney Frederick received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work Magna Cum Laude.
The ceremony also recognised outstanding academic achievement and service.
Khatija Solomon received the Board of Directors' Award for exceptional service and contributions to the university community.
The President's Award was presented to Antonia Joseph Philips in recognition of her performance inside and outside the classroom.
Darla Jacquet received the Academic Achievement Award for attaining the highest academic standing among USM graduates.
The graduating class selected Claudia Connor as the recipient of the Outstanding Faculty Award in recognition of her commitment to student success, mentorship and excellence in teaching.
Best-in-Class Awards were also presented. Sigorney Sahia Robinson received the School of Education Undergraduate Best-in-Class Award, while Brittney Frederick received the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Best-in-Class Award.
USM also recognised students enrolled in nondegree programmes as part of its commitment to lifelong learning and educational accessibility.
Seven students received General Educational Development (GED) diplomas, while four students successfully completed the English as a Second Language (ESL) Level 4 Programme.
Student Government Association Appreciation Awards were also presented to students who demonstrated leadership and service throughout their time at USM.
As part of the ceremony, graduates were formally welcomed into the USM Alumni Association and the University of the Virgin Islands Alumni Network.
USM extended congratulations to all graduates, GED diploma recipients, ESL certificate recipients, award winners and their families, describing their achievements as a testament to perseverance, dedication and the transformative impact of education.
The ceremony concluded with members of the Class of 2026 turning their tassels and embarking on the next chapter of their journeys as part of a growing community of graduates committed to making contributions in St. Maarten, the Caribbean region and beyond.
