The UWI (University of the West Indies) strongly emphasises alumni engagement as part of its “Triple A” Strategic Plan, aiming to maintain meaningful connections between graduates and their alma mater. Throughout 2023/2024, the university strengthened its global alumni relationships through various initiatives and events, reflecting a commitment to keeping alumni involved and informed.

A key feature of these efforts was the collaboration between the UWIAA (UWI Alumni Association) Florida and New York Chapters and other international alumni groups, which hosted the Abeng Book Club. This initiative focused on Caribbean authors, encouraging worldwide literary discussions. Communication was essential; tools such as the UWI Connect Alumni Magazine, the monthly UWI Nexus, and the UWI Alumni Online website, along with social media platforms like LinkedIn, which connects over 97,000 alumni, facilitated ongoing engagement. Additionally, the Soft and Life Skills Series (SLSS) Webinars, led by dedicated young professionals from the UWI STAT (Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow) Corps, reached a global audience and culminated in the SLSS Conference. Graduates shared their stories and experiences through the Global UWI Alumni Hub, celebrating alumni contributions to their communities on Global UWI Alumni Day, held on June 26, 2024. The Pelican Award Ceremonies, organised by chapters like UWIAA Antigua and Barbuda, recognised outstanding alumni achievements, highlighting the impact of graduates.

The guiding principle of “One UWI, One Alumni Family” was central to the direction of alumni relations, emphasising the vital role of graduates in advancing the institution. Alumni contributed to campus development through philanthropic activities such as the Every Dollar Makes a Difference Programme, the Campus and Regional Endowment Funds, and the Medical Alumni Endowment. Their involvement enriched student experiences as guest speakers, mentors, and advisers. They also took active roles in recruiting, sponsoring, and governing as representatives in university committees and the Senate.

Various innovative engagement initiatives were introduced, such as the UWIAA Jamaica Chapter’s “Coffee with Classmates,” a monthly event to enhance alumni networking. The UWI also led sustainability efforts, being the only Caribbean university selected for the Responsible Futures Programme, which integrates sustainability into academics, research, and university- wide processes. Rebranded as the One UWI Responsible Futures Programme (OURFP), this initiative is driven by students across all campuses through the UWI STAT Ambassadorial Corps, highlighting advocacy for climate action.

Efforts were guided by the OURFP Advisory Board, Leadership Assembly, and Leadership Council, spearheaded by Mrs. Celia Davidson Francis, who promoted the One UWI Sustainability Policy. Planning is underway to incorporate sustainability principles into co-curricular activities starting in September 2024, with the directors of Student Services across campuses endorsing the OURFP’s Civic Engagement Strategic Plan, embedding sustainable practices into student-led projects and volunteer initiatives.

An orientation video aimed to inspire new students to pledge their commitment to sustainability through the One UWI Sustainability Pledge, further promoting a culture of environmental responsibility. The OURFP’s collaboration with the Open Society University Network (OSUN) facilitated representation at OSUN’s Get Engaged Conference in Berlin, where student ambassador Ruth Dimgba presented the “Trees for Tomorrow” initiative, underlining the importance of early education in sustainability.

In an academic pilot, five lecturers from the St. Augustine Campus participated in a Responsible Futures 2024 Teach-In, marking a significant step toward embedding sustainability into the curriculum. Overall, The UWI’s initiatives during this period highlight its dedication to alumni engagement, sustainability, and community connection, ensuring continual growth and impact.