FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK
VOLUME 37
AU G U ST - DE C E M B E R 2 0 2 1 NEW APPOINTMENTS Interim VP | Interim Dean FST | Interim FST Chair The University of Belize made the following interim appointments on October 20, 2021: • Dr. Sherlene Enriquez Savery, as Interim Vice President; • Dr. Apolonio Aguilar as Interim Dean, FST, and; • Ms. Karen Bautista as Interim Chair of Science Department, FST. • We wish them all the best in these capacities. UB Receives Donation of Books from Dr. Carla Barnett The University of Belize is the recipient of a generous book donation from Dr. Carla Barnett, recently appointed Secretary General for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Dr. Barnett is widely known in Belize and the Caribbean, having held leadership positions in various regional institutions throughout the Caribbean. These books are from her personal collection and represent the scope and breadth of Dr. Barnett’s scholarship and interests. They are a showcase of the profound dedication and quest for knowledge that no doubt has propelled her to some of the highest leadership positions in the region. These books will serve as an invaluable source of reference for students and researchers and will be a great addition to the University of Belize’s Library. Interim President, Dr. Vincent Palacio and Chair of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Bernard Watler, received the donation on behalf of the University.
Release of 2021 Issue of ComePose ComePose, the English Department’s creative writing blog for University of Belize students, 2021 issue was released Friday, August 27th in a virtual launch party via Google Meet. The issue included 11 new writers from all four faculties. Here’s the link to the ComePose website, which also contains the 8 previously published works from our inaugural, 2019 issue: https://comepose123.wixsite. com/youngwriters
UB and UT Tyler Re-defined Partnership On August 12, 2021, the University of Belize met with Dr. Wesley Hickey, University of Texas at Tyler Representative, to discuss how UB and Tyler can redefine their partnership and what areas of focus would be beneficial for both students and lecturers at UB. In attendance and representing the University of Belize was Interim President, Dr. Vincent Palacio, along with Faculty of Education and Arts Internship Coordinator, Dr. Maxine McKay. The University of Belize and Tyler University signed a memorandum of understanding in 2019 and through that MOU, partnerships have been accessible since Tyler has funds allocated to assist with education. The funds have been made available through the CARSI grant which was designed to support the improvement of pre-service and early service teaching in schools in Belize through better instructional coaching by field supervisors and principals. There is an emphasis on Stann Creek and Toledo, but we hope the rubric and trainings will be adopted countrywide. There were discussions on how the University of Texas at Tyler can assist the University of Belize with improving teacher preparation, to assist teachers who are struggling in areas of instruction, planning, and assessment. The possibility of improving field supervisors was also discussed, along with placing more focus on mentorship and coaching rather than just evaluation of the interns and the One of the items of discussion also included the development of partnership in research between Tyler and UB, as well as the introduction of a Masters in Curriculum. Tyler will continue support training needed in areas of education and it looks forward to making student and teachers exchange possible and to bringing in more Masters Programs that can aid in Belize’s development. 2
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
Lecturer and Students Participate in the Round Table Talk ComePose, the English Department’s creative writing blog for University of Belize students, 2021 Ms. April Martinez and her History students participated in the Round Table Talk hosted by the Heritage Education Network Belize on August 4, 2021. The discussion was entitled, “Let’s Talk Emancipation – Future Generations, Changing Perspectives” and was in collaboration with the Institute for Social & Cultural Research and the National Institute of Culture and History as part of the Emancipation Day celebrations. UB is proud of our History Students. UB Holds 2nd COVID-19 Forum On August 20, 2021, the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences hosted the 2nd Forum in the COVID-19 series: entitled “The Social Dimension”. The Forum included presentation from: Shahira Muschamp - how is COVID-19 impacting education; Javier Sabido - The Rural Experience; Christopher Tapia - COVID and Lockdowns: The Youth Perspective; and Arnold Guy - Navigating the pandemic while living with a long-term condition. Ms. Melanie Smith, FMSS Sociologist moderated the session.
UB President Meets with Staff On August 18, 2021 the President had a meet and greet with the Staff on the Belmopan Campus and thanked them for the services they provide on behalf of the University. The staff voiced their concerns and questions. It was well received. Each were given refreshment, courtesy of the President’s Office.
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
3
UB President Tours Central Farm Campus On August 18, 2021, the President visited the Central Farm Campus and had a meet and greet with the Faculty and Staff during their lunch break. Thereafter, the President toured the Central Farm campus with Campus Director, Mrs. Zoe Zetina. Zacharias Palacio-Mira UB Scholarship On August 18, 2021 the University of Belize (UB) and the Belmopan City Council (BMPCITCO) established a Financial Aid Program named Zacharias Palacio-Mira UB Scholarship. The BMPCITCO is committed to the education of young Belizeans at the highest center of learning to achieve their highest potential and contribute to the growing demand and needs of Belize. The general function of the BMPCITCO, as set out in its statute, is to encourage and promote, for the benefit and enjoyment of the present and future generations of the people of Belize, the provision, protection, conservation and enhancement of the natural and cultural resources of Belize. A total of 58 students were awarded under this scholarship program.
Outreach 1 - Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations Meeting with Minister Anthony Mahler, C.E.O. Mrs. Nicole Solano and BTB Director Evan Tillett Lead in updating the Sustainable Tourism Develop a Tourism Training Institute: Development Master Plan: • A 20 room training hotel • Economics • A 100 capacity conference center • Water/ hydrology • A 60 capacity restaurant • Engineering • 4 technologically advanced classrooms • Community Engagement • Tourism • Environment/ ecological Sciences • GIS • Statistician 4
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
Outreach 2 - Ministry of Education Teachers Learning Institute Meeting with Mrs. Cecilia Smith and Dr. Frieda Palma The discussion highlighted the key E-Learning Professional Development Courses offered at the University of Belize to build capacity in the E-Learning environment using a tiered approach: • Developing A Web-Enhanced Course • Developing A Blended Course • Developing an online Course Outreach 3 - Ministry of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform Meeting with C.E.O. Rolando Zetina The discussion highlighted the key E-Learning Professional Development Courses offered at the University of Belize to build capacity in the E-Learning environment using a tiered approach: • Developing A Web-Enhanced Course • Developing A Blended Course • Developing an online Course Outreach 4 - Ministry of Economic Development Meeting with C.E.O. Dr. Osmond Martinez Collaboration in: • Climate Change Financing Unit • Digitization • Eliminate corruption • Science and Technology • Engineering – at the Bachelors Level • Data Science • Research and Development
• • • • • •
Outreach 5 - Virginia Commonwealth University Meeting with Dr. Jill Blondin, Global Education Office Criminal Justice and Criminology Social Work Education (teacher training) Biological Sciences Sociology Psychology
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
5
8th Silvaana Udz Lecture On October 5, 2021, the University of Belize, in collaboration with the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH), hosted the 8th Annual Silvaana Udz Lekcha. This year, the lecturer was UB’s own, Mr. Ubaldimir Guerra. The lecture was held virtually via Zoom and Facebook live. The event was co-hosted by Ms. Karla Pinelo and Mr. Rolando Cocom.
UB Hosts Its Second Virtual Graduation The University of Belize hosted its twenty-eight commencement ceremony on October 23, 2021, where it certified 1,000 graduates at the certificate, diploma, associates, bachelor and master levels: Bachelor’s 445 | Associate’s 491 | Certificate 24 | Diploma 7 | Master’s 33 The University celebrated this milestone, with the keynote address delivered by the Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science and Technology. Graduates in the undergrad programs were recognized with the following academic honours: 8 Summa Cum Laude | 54 Magna Cum Laude | 72 Cum Laude
Interim President Keynote Speaker for Garifuna Celebrations The Interim President of the University of Belize was the Keynote Speaker at the Garifuna Settlement Day Ceremonies held in Dangriga Town on November 19, 2021.
6
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
14th Marketing Expo The 14th Annual Marketing Expo and 2nd Virtual Expo was held on Friday, November 26, 2021 under the theme “Innovative, Interactive, Breakthrough Initiatives” featuring 36 marketing groups. The virtual Expo can be viewed on the UB Facebook Page.
Senior Managers Retreat The University of Belize hosted a virtual retreat for Senior Managers. The facilitator of this event was Dr. Martin Cuellar, Dean of Student Affairs.
Launch of UB’s Climate Smart Agriculture Program On October 21, 2021, the University of Belize hosted its Virtual Program Launch for its Associate Degree in Climate Smart Agriculture. This venture was supported by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, as well as the SAGE Partnership.
Medical School Update The University of Belize reactivated its agreement with the UNAN, Managua to provide support for UB School of Medicine (SOM). UNAN, Managua developed presentation to be shared with the Ministry of Health and Wellness stakeholders on the accreditation of KHMH as possible teaching hospital. Initial discussions were held with the KHMH Chairman of the Board of Trustees on medical clerkships. Discussion were held with possible consultant to undertake review of the SOM Curriculum and support the submission for accreditation candidacy under Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP). Representatives from UB visited University of Quintana Roo to tour its Division of Health Sciences.
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
7
Engineering Building Update The first phase of the Engineering Project has started with the tendering process and a total of seven Contractors have been selected using selective tendering. All bids will be submitted by December 14th, 2021 which should be reviewed by December 16th, 2021. Once a Contractor has been selected, the work should commence on the second week of January 2022 or no later than January 14th, 2022. All works are scheduled to be completed by the ending of June 2022, given that there are no delays. Training for the Ministry of National Defence & Border Security The University of Belize upon a request from the Ministry of National Defence & Border Security developed a program proposal for a Professional Development Certificate in Writing and Communication Skills for Security Forces. This program proposal was developed by Mrs. Lisa Ramirez and Ms. Lisa Kile. The course it for Two 8-week courses (must receive a pass in first course to move to the second course) and will be done online. UB is anticipating enrollment of 50 participants.
APAMO Agreement Signing On Thursday, December 2, 2021, the University of Belize and the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) signed an MOU for the strengthening of inter-institutional relationships between the two organizations. APAMO, the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations, is Belize’s leading network of non-governmental conservation organizations that seeks to influence and encourage the Belizean society to safeguard the integrity and diversity of Belize’s protected areas system and to ensure that any use of Belize’s natural resources is sustainable. 8
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
Partnership with Autism Belize and Therapy Adventures The University of Belize and Mrs. Christy Almeida from the Autism Belize in Partnership with Therapy Adventures met regarding possible collaboration with UB. Identified were possible opportunities that would benefit both entities: • UB to provide the use of three rooms where UB students can work with Certified Therapists to earn practical Internship hours for Social work students. • Service hours accumulated for nurses on scholarships • Student-teacher exposure to different careers in special education • Collaboration with universities affiliated with Therapy Adventures for scholarships • Capacity building for faculty members - Special Education Development of Special education programs
Signing of the Following Erasmus Agreements for Student and Staff Mobility University of Valladolid and University of Belize re-established partnerships for 4 students and 2 Staff and Faculty exchanges for the year 2020-2023. University College Copenhagen, Denmark and the University of Belize signed an Erasmus+ Agreement for the years 2020-2023 for exchange of students and/or staff between the two universities to start in the coming Academic Year. Development of Climate Risk Information System for IDB UB was single sourced for this project because of its unique position as a higher education institution with a cadre of specialized faculty members and student researchers. Approx. value of this project is $400,000+ BZD.
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
9
The FMSS Women Empowerment Initiative On Friday, November 26, 2021 the Convention & Events Management Class hosted a “Women Rise, You Are Worthy” event at the UB Audio/ Visual Room The topics presented were: 1. Woman, rise above low self-esteem! 2. Woman, rise above lack of formal education! 3. Woman, rise above emotional trauma and grief! Congratulations Dr. Thisbe Lucas-Usher! Dr. Thisbe Lucas-Usher has earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Education Degree from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus in Barbados. The title of her dissertation was “Mixed Methods Inquiry into Belizean Teachers’ and Principals’ Perceptions of Teacher Supervision and The Influence of an Adapted Teacher Supervision Model on Primary Teachers’ Instructional Practices.”
Recent Faculty Research Publications Deserie Avila 1. Opportunities and Challenges at The Margins of Seaborne Tourism by: Deserie Avila and Michael J. Pisani - Opportunities and Challenges at the Margins of Seaborne Tourism | Emerald Insight Cindy Thompson 1. The University of Belize Strategy for Coping with COVID-19 by Cindy Thompson - MCR - The University of Belize Strategy for Coping with COVID-19 (informingscience.org) 2. Investigating the Effect of Diplomatic Representation on Trade: A Case Study of Croatia by: Danijel Mlinaric (University of Zagreb, Croatia), Hrvoje Josic (University of Zagreb, Croatia), and Cindy Thompson (University of Belize, Belize) - Investigating the Effect of Diplomatic Representation on Trade: A Case Study of Croatia: Business & Management Book Chapter | IGI Global (igi-global.com) Jair Valladarez 1. Tropical Subterranean Ecosystems in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize: A Review of Aquatic Biodiversity and Their Ecological Aspects by: Luis M. Mejía-Ortíz, Peter Sprouse, Juan C. Tejeda-Mazariegos, Jair Valladarez, Oscar Frausto-Martínez, Alejandro L. Collantes-ChavezCosta, Guillermo Ruíz-Cancino and German Yáñez - Tropical Subterranean Ecosystems in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize: A Review of Aquatic Biodiversity and Their Ecological Aspects | IntechOpen 10
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
2. Management of POPs: A Caribbean Perspective by Santos D. Chicas, Jair G. Valladarez, Abel A. Carrias, Kiyoshi Omine, and V. Sivasankar - Management of POPs: A Caribbean Perspective | springerprofessional.de
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! My warmest wishes to you and your family as we enter 2022! D r. Vi n c e n t P a l a c i o Interim President
From the President’s Desk - Volume 37
11