UCCI Launches Speaker Series with Major-General David Fraser

The University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) is excited to announce a dynamic new speaker series for 2020 to be held on campus. The Speaker Series will convene local and international leaders to discuss compelling topics and distill lessons in leadership. On 17 December 2019, the new series launched with Major-General David Fraser, CMM, MSC, MSM, CD (retired), who is one of the most decorated generals in Canadian Armed Forces history.

During the inaugural session of the series, Major-General David Fraser discussed his experience in the Canadian Armed Forces and his time within NATO. He highlighted critical lessons around humanitarian aid and relief support during times of conflict, nation-building, and how to deal with complexity and failure.

"The most important thing is building relationships, people are an institution's greatest asset, and they matter first in every decision, once we understand that anything is possible. Always extend your trust and communicate your intent so that your team can achieve the greatest results in complex situations," said Major- General David Fraser.

Major-General David Fraser further explores this dialogue in his book on NATO's first combat operation in Afghanistan, Operation Medusa: The Furious Battle that Saved Afghanistan from the Taliban, co-authored by Brian Hanington. Those who attended the luncheon had the opportunity to receive a signed copy.

President & CEO, Dr. Stacy McAfee, spoke to the launch of the speaker series stating, "Beginning this series with Major-General David Fraser is a demonstration of UCCI's commitment to expanding education beyond the classroom. The Speaker Series will aim to connect our community with local and international thought leaders, trendsetters, and history-makers shaping social change."

This UCCI speaker series will continue throughout 2020 and will feature notable speakers that educate, enlighten, and entertain the community on a variety of topics. If you are interested in future speakers on campus, please visit our website at ucci.edu.ky or call 623-8224.

About Major-General (retired) David Fraser

Major-General (retired) David Fraser is one of the most decorated generals in Canadian Armed Forces history. He led Operation MEDUSA, the largest battle in NATO's history. Fraser has also served as an executive with three different corporations and has mentored at Ivey Business School. He shares actionable insights based upon his experience leading both on the battlefield and in the boardroom.

MGen. David Fraser's story is one of courage under pressure, and of managing the complexity, contradiction, confusion, and chaos thrown at him and his coalition from every direction. He believes in making human connections based on respect and trust while showing your value to those you're trying to help. Fraser's insights relate to understanding people, siding with them, training them, and helping them build the capacity to sustain a better life.

Fraser was the commander of Operation Medusa in Afghanistan and the largest combat engagement of Canadian Armed Forces in over 50 years. The goal of the operation was to defeat the Taliban and uphold the security of Afghanistan's second-largest city: Kandahar. While in Afghanistan, his team also built schools, district centres, and family dwellings, teacher training facilities, hospitals, and clinics.

Serving as Commander Regional Command South under the United States Coalition, he was the first Canadian general to have United States troops under his command. Fraser's experiences also include leading the transition from the US Operation Enduring Freedom to the NATO ISAF coalition.

Upon leaving the Canadian Forces, Fraser joined the private sector and, along with his partners, raised funds for the creation of Blue Goose Pure Foods. Most recently, he was the COO for INKAS® Armored Vehicle Manufacturing until June 2016. Today Fraser works with BMO on their Canadian Defence Community Banking Program.

He holds a Master of Management and Policy and is a graduate of the United States Capstone Program (Executive School for generals). Fraser was also the Commandant of the Canadian Forces College – the Canadian Forces and Government of Canada's premier masters accredited institute of higher learning.