The 60th Anniversary Charter Day program for the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) promises to be enjoyable and enlightening.
To celebrate six decades of fulfilling UVI’s mission, Charter Day will include a keynote address by Dr. Robert Franklin in addition to announcing plans to honor the late Dr. Athniel C. “Addie” Ottley and UVI Board Trustee Dr. Yvonne E. L. Thraen.
A renowned scholar, President Emeritus of Morehouse College and esteemed theologian, Dr. Franklin will address the profound question of “Moral Leadership and the History and Role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).” At a time when HBCUs are receiving national attention and support from various sectors of society, the theme of Dr. Franklin's remarks builds on his most recent book, “Moral Leadership: Integrity, Courage, Imagination.”
“Although the University is among the youngest of the nation’s HBCUs, we have established and continue to strengthen UVI’s reputation as an institution committed to the furtherance of important and timely social discussions such as moral leadership,” said UVI President Dr. David Hall. “Anyone who attended or knows about HBCUs will want to be a part of this exciting opportunity to hear from one of our nation’s foremost thinkers and leaders, who worked with President Bill Clinton on his ‘One America’ Initiative, with President George W. Bush on his Faith Based Advisory Committee, and on President Barack Obama’s ‘My Brother’s Keeper’ Initiative.”
As the Virgin Islands community continues to mourn the passing of native son and beloved legend Addie Ottley, UVI will honor the respected icon’s remarkable contributions and community service and will share its plans to honor the legacy of Dr. Ottley – who served the Territory not only as a senator and former Lieutenant Governor but also through a long-lasting broadcast career – through various academic and service initiatives. In recognition of his lifelong service to the community, UVI awarded Dr. Ottley an honorary doctorate degree in 2018.
More information is available in a news release on the Media Section of the UVI Website-www.uvi.edu/ - and from this direct link