Twenty-one students at the International College of the Cayman Islands were awarded their diplomas at the Class of 2024 Graduation Ceremony recently at the First Baptist Church. Graduate degrees were conferred upon eight graduands. Five received Master of Science in Management with Human Resources Concentration and three received the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree.
Thirteen undergraduate degrees were presented to six graduands at the Bachelor level and seven earned their Associates degrees. Five students were conferred with their Bachelor of Science in Business Administration while one completed the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Information Technology concentration. Five students completed the Associate of Science in Business, one completed the Associate of Science in Business with Finance concentration, and one received the Associate of Science in Business with Information Systems Management concentration.
The Class of 2024 earned a commendable overall grade point average of 3.34 on a four-point scale.
Hon. Heather Bodden read congratulatory remarks from the Premier and Minister of Education, Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Conolly, who iterated that the “International College of the Cayman Islands (ICCI) has established a remarkable legacy for over five decades, this esteemed institution has provided quality education, fostering a generation of leaders and innovators”. She encouraged graduates to carry the “invaluable knowledge and skills” they have earned, as they embark on this new chapter of their lives.
Long-term advocate of ICCI and MP for Savannah, Hon. Bodden, also offered personal remarks, letting the graduates know she understands the obstacles they will face, “intentional roadblocks put in your way by society to hinder your success but I also stand before your to give you hope. It begins with having the mindset of remembering who you are, reaching out to grasp tightly to what is yours, being relentless in your battle to achieve victory over negativity and despair.” Career goals can be achieved through hard work, focus, tenacity and being proactive in your approach, she added, “put forth your very best effort to stand out from the rest” as nothing will be handed to you on a platter.
ICCI Board of Trustees Chairman Mr. Wayne McManus brought greetings, Trustee Member Mr. Ormond Williams was Master of Ceremony, and Trustee Member Mrs. Yolanda Banks-McCoy delivered the Commencement Address, centered around three key principles:
1. Being true to yourselves, your authentic self;
2. Working hard - being willing to learn and adapt; and
3. Dreaming Big!
“In a world that often tries to mold us to a preconceived notion of success, staying true to oneself is really a revolutionary act. Each one of you has a unique blend of talents, experiences, values, that make you who you are. Embracing the uniqueness is crucial for a fulfilling and authentic life.”
She referred to change makers throughout history and stated that what sets the great leaders apart is not just their accomplishments but their unwavering commitment to their authentic self.
During the graduates’ college tenure, 95% were employed. Among them three served as Civil Servants and three were employed by Cayman Islands Statutory Authorities, including the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), Health Services Authority (HSA), and Port Authority.
Notably, 62% of the graduates are Caymanians; eight received Government scholarships and three were sponsored by their respective employers.
Seven graduates were inducted into the internationally recognized Sigma Beta Delta Honors’ Society.
In alignment with ICCI’s mission, 15 graduates completed the Local Seminar on the Cayman Islands course, which included participation in the Know Your Cayman Islands Workshop conducted by the Department of Tourism. All students were actively engaged in community service projects.
Of those currently employed, 60% anticipate a raise or a promotion following their graduation from ICCI.
ICCI graduate level programs are offered 100% online and all ICCI classes are held in the evening hours to accommodate students who work full time jobs.
The graduation may be viewed on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Prt4xO-kH-M .
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