A record number of more than 1,100 people attended the 2025 University College of the Cayman Islands commencement ceremony on 1 July.
The ceremony, which was part of UCCI’s 50th anniversary celebrations, was themed ’50 Years Strong: Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future’. It brought together graduates, families, distinguished guests and partner educational institutions from around the globe, highlighting UCCI’s impact on the Cayman Islands community and its growing international presence, a press release said.
“The overwhelming attendance at this ceremony reflects the vital role UCCI plays in our nation’s development,” said UCCI’s acting president and CEO Livingston Smith in the release. “To see our campus filled with over 1,100 supporters celebrating our graduates and honorary doctorate recipients was truly moving. This turnout represents the largest gathering in UCCI’s history and demonstrates the community’s commitment to higher education in the Cayman Islands.”
In addition to the record number of people attending in person, thousands more joined via live stream.
During the ceremony, four individuals received honorary doctorates in recognition of their transformative contributions to Caymanian society: Roy Bodden, Lucille Seymour, Theresa Pitcairn and Jackie Balls.
“The energy and pride in the room were palpable as we honoured both our newest graduates and those who laid the foundation for UCCI’s success,” said Smith.
Acting Governor Franz Manderson delivered the commencement address, focusing on leadership and service. Other notable guests including Minister for Education Rolston Anglin, UCCI board of governors chairman Gilbert McLean and professor emeritus Calvin Bromfield.
“The ceremony also featured special recognition of past UCCI presidents and distinguished alumni, creating a powerful connection between the institution’s pioneering past and promising future,” UCCI said in the press release.
In addition to the record number of people attending in person, thousands more joined via live stream.
The commencement ceremony served as the cornerstone of UCCI’s year-long 50th anniversary celebrations, which continue through March 2026 with additional events including a gala dinner, the publication of a commemorative 50th anniversary yearbook, Distinguished Lecture Series and a community marathon.
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