PHILIPSBURG--University of St. Martin (USM) Board President Valerie Giterson-Pantophlet, in the presence of Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Jorien Wuite, introduced G. Antonio Carmona-Baez as the new President of University of St. Martin (USM) and Dr. Rolinda Carter as USM’s new Dean of Academics.
In her introductory remarks Giterson-Pantophlet highlighted that both new staff members are fully committed to making serious contributions to further build the institution and that their presence fills the void left by the departure of key staff members in 2017.
The new Dean of Academics is from St. Maarten, a USM alumna with a doctorate in pathology and laboratory medicine, and has a love for science and research which she brings with her to her new position.
President Baez has a Master of Arts degree from University of Amsterdam in International Relations. Baez, who originates from Puerto Rico, also studied political science and engages in research in public policy with a focus on sustainable development.
Minister Wuite expressed her delight in the appointment of the new staff members and re-affirmed the Ministry’s intention to continue to partner with USM to engage in critical conversations regarding the funding, subsidy, multi-annual strategic planning and legislation of higher education. She recognises the importance of both functions, as they are critical and important to acknowledge, position and develop USM as an institution for higher education and science.
Wuite ended the press conference by wishing the USM team and board much success.
