Patterson continues push for UWI alumni to give generously

University of the West Indies (UWI) patron and former Prime Minister PJ Patterson is once again appealing to alumni and other benevolent well wishers to contribute generously to the institution. 

The contributions, Patterson said, will allow the UWI to continue strengthening its capabilities to produce some of the county’s best leaders and professionals.

Last April, at the UWI-hosted launch of Global Giving Week, themed “Emancipate...Educate...Donate”, Patterson encouraged UWI past students and the private sector to use their networks and contacts to influence a constant flow of funds to the university.

The purpose of the activities is to seek funding for scholarships, research and educational programmes at UWI.

Another set of Global Giving week activities kicked off on August 1 and ended yesterday with brunch and an art exhibition at the UWI Regional Headquarters, Mona road, following a church service which was held at the UWI Chapel.

“Remember the UWI in your estate planning. You may specify in what areas your donation should be directed. Do not be content to give simply what you can but what your conscience dictates you must," Patterson said.

"We have not yet attained the longevity of Oxbridge, Princeton, Yale, Harvard, nor have we yet accumulated the wealth for establishing large endowments. Many of you belong to corporate boards, occupy pivotal positions where you can identify opportunities for the UWI to earn income and augment its capital resources.”

He added: “I invite proud alumni and all our benevolent well wishers to contribute generously so that the UWI remains truthful to its original mission as time unfolds. It’s a mission which has no end, for light must remain that beacon which guides our Caribbean along the pathway of social upliftment and economic prosperity; one which illuminates our search for cultural expression, intellectual excellence and enables us to fashion our unique Caribbean civilisation.”

A number of art exhibits were on show and a few pieces. In one way or another, many (exhibitors) have committed to donating a percentage of the money generated from sales.

Event sponsors included Victoria Mutual Building Society, The Gleaner Company, RJR Group, Pure Country and Classic Rental & Decor.

Companies and individuals which earlier this year made donations to the institution include JMMB Foundation, Patterson, Alex Sharpe, West Indies Cricket Board and UWI Vice Chancellor, Sir Hilary Beckles.

Lady Hall, Michael Brooks, and Lennox Coke were among the exhibitors and artists who had their work on display.