The University of the Virgin Islands, through its College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, is proud to announce the official relaunch of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center.
The relaunch reception will be held Friday, Feb. 13, from noon to 2 p.m. at the R.T. Park Conference Suite on UVI’s Albert A. Sheen Campus, with a livestream option available for virtual attendees. RSVP: Guests are encouraged to register in advance via the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center on Eventbrite at https://sl1nk.com/WbAWv.
Established in November 2012, the VICCC serves as a vital institution dedicated to the preservation, cultivation, research, education, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean. The relaunch reflects a renewed commitment to UVI’s mission of being “Historically American, Uniquely Caribbean, and Globally Interactive,” and aligns with the University’s G.R.A.N.D. Momentum Strategic Plan (2025–2030).
The reception will provide an exclusive preview of the Center’s future direction, highlighting its role in advancing UVI’s accreditation through focused cultural research, scholarly publications, specialized academic programming, and regional initiatives. This includes support for the pending Ph.D. in Caribbean Studies, facilitated by faculty within CLASS.
Attendees will learn more about the VICCC’s comprehensive approach, which includes:
- Academic Excellence: Advancing state-of-the-art research and innovative mixed-media programming in Caribbean Studies, cultural heritage preservation, creative arts, and related disciplines.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Strengthening regional and international networks among scholars, heritage tourism professionals, and cultural and creative practitioners.
- Community Engagement: Developing interactive, culturally authentic programs that honor and celebrate the Caribbean’s intergenerational history, heritage, and traditions.
Dr. Chenzira Davis Kahina, Director of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center, stated, “The VICCC is more than an institutional center—it is a beacon for cultural research, heritage education, identity, and global engagement. We invite community members, scholars, creative artists, and philanthropic partners to join us as we embark on this next chapter of growth and innovation.”
In addition to its academic and cultural objectives, the relaunch serves as a call to action for investors, philanthropic foundations, and donors. The VICCC is actively seeking support to expand its initiatives, collections, and facilities, further strengthening its role as a premier cultural resource for the Virgin Islands and the broader Caribbean region.
About the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center:
The Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center, housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at the University of the Virgin Islands, serves as a dynamic hub for cultural research, creative production, educational technology, arts exhibitions, and heritage preservation. The Center is dedicated to advancing educational engagement, safeguarding accurate cultural narratives, and celebrating the complex and vibrant history of the Caribbean.
Through innovative scholarship, interdisciplinary intellectual exchange, creative and performative arts, culturally sustainable media, and community-centered programming, the VICCC supports the preservation and promotion of Caribbean heritage while fostering local, regional, and global dialogue.
For more information about the event contact Dr. Chenzira Davis Kahina, VICCC Director, chenzira.daviskahina@uvi.edu (340) 692-4123.
