The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) joins the Virgin Islands community in mourning the loss of Ruth Elma Thomas, a widely respected linguist and educator who received numerous honors and awards for her outstanding achievements in education and community service. Her efforts to elevate the standards of public education in the Virgin Islands are well-known throughout the community and she made an unforgettable impact in the lives of so many people as a teacher and principal at Charlotte Amalie High School (CAHS). As a member of the Reichhold Foundation Board since its inception, a longtime member of the UVI Board of Trustees, and a part-time UVI faculty member, Thomas brought her expertise and love of teaching and the arts to the University. In recognition of her remarkable contributions to UVI, Thomas was awarded an honorary doctorate degree in 2017.
“On behalf of the UVI community, we are saddened to learn of the passing of Ms. Ruth Thomas,” remarked Dr. David Hall, UVI president. “She was a close friend of the University and an avid supporter. Over her distinguished career, she guided students, teachers and administrators on a path to excellence, always determined to improve the future of the Virgin Islands. I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Thomas,” said Dr. Hall.
More information is available in a news release on the Media Section of the UVI Website-www.uvi.edu/ - and from this direct link.