UCCI’S HISTORIC 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY DRAWS RECORD CROWD OF OVER 1,100 ATTENDEES

The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) made history on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, hosting its largest-ever Commencement Ceremony with more than 1,100 people in attendance, marking one of the biggest events in the institution’s five-decade history. The milestone celebration, held under the theme 50 Years Strong: Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future, exceeded all expectations for attendance and community engagement.

The record-breaking ceremony brought together an unprecedented gathering of graduates, families, distinguished guests, and partner educational institutions from around the globe, demonstrating UCCI’s profound impact on the Cayman Islands community and its growing international presence.

Four exceptional individuals received Honorary Doctorates in recognition of their transformative contributions to Caymanian society:

• J. A. Roy Bodden: Honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt, Honoris Causa) - Renowned educator and former Minister of Education, Sports, Youth and Gender Affairs

• Lucille Dell Seymour: Honorary Doctor of Humanities (DHum, Honoris Causa) - Pioneering educator and community leader

• Maureen Theresa Pitcairn: Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD, Honoris Causa) - Distinguished community advocate and cultural contributor

• Jackie Annette Balls: Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA, Honoris Causa) -

• Legendary dance educator with a 50-year legacy

“Tonight’s extraordinary turnout demonstrates the deep connection between UCCI and our community,” said Dr Livingston Smith, President and CEO of UCCI. “With over 1,100 people celebrating with us, we witnessed not just a graduation ceremony, but a true testament to 50 years of educational excellence. The energy and pride in the room were palpable as we honoured both our newest graduates and those who laid the foundation for UCCI’s success.”

The Honourable Franz Manderson, MBE, Cert. Hon., JP, who served as Acting Governor and delivered the commencement address, inspired graduates with his message of leadership and service. The ceremony’s distinguished platform party included Professor Emeritus Calvin Bromfield, who delivered a moving invocation; The Honourable Rolston Anglin, JP, Minister for Finance and Economic Development and Minister for Education and Training, representing the government; and Mr. Gilbert McLean, Chairman of the Board of Governors. The ceremony also featured special recognition of past UCCI presidents and distinguished alumni, creating a powerful connection between the institution’s pioneering past and promising future.

“The overwhelming attendance at this ceremony reflects the vital role UCCI plays in our nation’s development,” stated Dr. Livingston Smith, Acting President and CEO of UCCI. “To see our campus filled with over 1,100 supporters celebrating our graduates and honorary doctorate recipients was truly moving. This turnout represents the largest gathering in UCCI’s history and demonstrates the community’s commitment to higher education in the Cayman Islands.”

The event’s success extended beyond physical attendance, with thousands more joining via live stream, allowing the entire nation to participate in this historic moment.

This historic commencement ceremony serves as a cornerstone event in UCCI’s year-long 50th anniversary celebrations, which continue through March 2026 with additional events including a gala dinner, the publication of a commemorative 50th Anniversary Yearbook, Distinguished Lecture Series events, and a community marathon.