The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) hosted its 2025 student convocation on Friday, featuring the Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson, associate justice of the United States Supreme Court, as the keynote speaker and honorary degree recipient. Jackson delivered a powerful and personal address, encouraging students to embrace hard work, kindness, and courage as they navigate their personal, academic, and professional journeys.
The convocation, held at UVI’s Elridge W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center, was a landmark event for the university community. Pamela Moolenaar-Wirsiy, UVI’s vice president for Student Success & Innovation, served as Master of Ceremony, setting the tone for an afternoon of celebration and inspiration. The UVI Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Dion Parson, chair of the performing & music arts department, delivered captivating musical selections that added a dynamic and uplifting element to the convocation ceremony. Their performance showcased the depth of musical talent at UVI, blending rhythmic sophistication with a rich, soulful sound that resonated throughout the venue.
UVI President Safiya George officially welcomed Jackson, describing her as a trailblazer whose career exemplifies perseverance and justice. Zeidan Bass, student government association president for the Orville E. Kean Campus, and Henry C. Smock, chairman of the UVI Board of Trustees, also delivered remarks, reinforcing UVI’s commitment to academic excellence and leadership development.
Jackson, the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity to engage with students, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She shared that her parents and brother are proud HBCU graduates, giving her a special connection to institutions like UVI.
Reflecting on her experiences during her recent book tour, Jackson noted that many young people asked her for advice on achieving success. She responded with three key lessons:
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UVI President Safiya George and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson (Source photo by Jonelle-Alexis Jackson) Hard Work Leads to Extraordinary Success
Jackson emphasized that diligence and determination are the keys to achieving greatness. She recalled how, as a child, she watched her father study law while raising a family, teaching her that perseverance is essential. Quoting Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, she reminded students:
“The heights by great men reached and kept, were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept, were toiling upward through the night.” - Kindness is a Powerful Tool for Success
Sharing a childhood memory, Jackson recounted how she once mocked a misspelled note, only to later realize it was written by her grandmother, who had been denied a formal education due to segregation. The moment taught her that privilege should never lead to arrogance and that treating others with respect and kindness can open doors in life that academic achievements alone cannot. - Courage and Conviction are Essential
Jackson recalled her time as vice chair of the U.S. Sentencing Commission, where she advocated for fair sentencing reforms despite political risks. Though she feared the consequences of speaking out, she ultimately chose to stand by her principles, a decision that helped pave the way for her judicial career. She urged students to trust their values, believe in their abilities, and boldly pursue justice—even when the path seems uncertain.
Following her address, UVI conferred an honorary degree upon Jackson, recognizing her contributions to law, leadership, and social justice. The award was presented by UVI Smock and George. The convocation concluded with remarks from Briahna Thomas, President of the Student Government Association for the Albert A. Sheen Campus, and a final message from George, who praised Jackson for her inspiring words and lifelong commitment to justice. A special acknowledgment was extended to the District Court of the Virgin Islands, including Chief Judge Robert A. Molloy and District Judge Wilma A. Lewis, for their role in facilitating her visit to the territory.
Jackson’s presence and words left an indelible impact on UVI students and faculty, reinforcing the university’s commitment to excellence, leadership, and social responsibility. Under George’s leadership, UVI continues to empower students to become global change-makers, ensuring that education serves as a bridge to opportunity and justice. As the 2025 student convocation came to a close, students and faculty alike departed with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by Jackson’s message that with hard work, kindness, and courage, anything is possible.
