Prime Minister Simpson Miller Lauds Union Institute and University

Prime Minister, the Most Hon Portia Simpson Miller, has lauded her alma mater, Union Institute and University, in the United States, for being transformational in its provision of tertiary education.

Mrs. Simpson Miller, who holds a degree in Public Administration from the institution, says she and other alumni have all been beneficiaries of Union Institute’s “long term vision” for tertiary education delivery, through its innovative and revolutionary approach.

She was speaking at the institution’s 50^th anniversary reception, at the Hilton Hotel in Miami, Florida, on June 21, at which she was the special guest.

Mrs. Simpson Miller noted that Union Institute has, over the years, dared to be a bold pace-setter in “rendering distance irrelevant”, by delivering tertiary education “across cyberspace”.

Additionally, she said the institution “moved from thought to action” by recognizing the knowledge and experience of working adults, in facilitating their pursuit of higher education, describing this approach as “cutting edge thinking.”

“These features have made this institution a pioneer in student-centred distance learning and other flexible education models….which created opportunities for busy professionals, like myself, to avail ourselves of higher education, while continuing to work and serve our businesses and communities,” the Prime Minister stated.

Mrs. Simpson Miller said the training she received “has strengthened me in my resolve to, among other things, uplift the marginalized and most vulnerable.”

“ (The) University has developed the capacity of its students to think critically, laterally, and creatively; and to use such capacity to network, problem solve, and take calculated risks to achieve goals that transform lives and communities,” she said.

Prime Minister Simpson Miller paid tribute to late University of the West Indies (UWI) Vice Chancellor, Professor Rex Nettleford, whom she said recommended that she  pursue studies at Union Institute.

She pointed out the decision to do so proved beneficial, as she was adequately prepared for her various Government engagements over the years, culminating with her appointment as Prime Minister.

Mrs. Simpson Miller contended the university’s “cutting edge thinking” over its first 50 years, “is certain to contribute to another successful 50 years.”

The Prime Minister is scheduled to return to the island later today (June 22).