Dr. Ragster Named "Woman of the Year" by Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.

UVI President Dr. LaVerne E. Ragster was named Woman of the Year on Sunday by the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. at its Recognition and Awards Luncheon. The luncheon, held at the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, also honored Olga Lima as Business Woman of the Year, Rosalie Randolph as Business Teacher of the Year and Ivy B. Williams as Soror of the Year.

Anette C. Williams, president of the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda, said that every two years, the chapters of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. recognize a woman, who, in her business or profession, contributes positively to the community.

"This year Epsilon Zeta Chapter selected Dr. LaVerne E. Ragster as our Woman of the Year because of her exceptional educational background, her community involvement and her outstanding employment experience," Williams said. "Being the first female President of the University of the Virgin Islands contributed greatly to her being selected."

"The women of the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority are well known for their contributions to our community," Dr. Ragster said. "I am humbled and delighted by this award. It is heartening to have this very special organization recognize the value and importance of our efforts at UVI. "

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. is a national business and professional sorority whose members are business and professional women. The sorority seeks to enhance the status of women by promoting interest in business education, the development of personal goals and the encouragement of civic and social service activities for youth and adults. In addition to members of the local chapter, the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. is represented by more than 5,000 members in more than 85 cities across the U.S. For information about the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, please contact Sheena Powell at 693-1006.