Continuing to lead the charge of Journalism Excellence
(STT, November 22, 2024). The University of the Virgin Islands Association of Black Journalists (UVIABJ) elected new student members to serve on the executive board for the 2024-25 academic year.
Nico Thomas, Gimel Pinto, Kwaniqua Monsanto, Mitchell Turnbull, and Shandley Raphael will lead the first and only student chapter in the Caribbean affiliated with the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ).
Thomas and Pinto were part of a group selected to attend the 2024 NABJ Regional convention in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which paid tribute to Black Wall Street and the 1921 Tulsa massacre.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to network with nationally recognized print and broadcast professionals,” said President Nico Thomas, recipient of the first place $1500 scholarship for outstanding Collegiate ‘pop-up’ essay.
He adds, “This is just one example of the many exciting networking opportunities that UVIABJ provides for its
students.”
President Nico Thomas, recipient of the first place $1500 scholarship at Regional NABJ in Tulsa, Ok.
UVIABJ is part of nearly 130 chapters and more than 4,000 members across the United States.
Chapters consist primarily of emerging journalists, professional journalists, student journalists, journalism educators, and media professionals who provide innovative quality program professionals in the U.S. and worldwide.
UVIABJ holds the distinction of representing the Afro-Caribbean diaspora
UVIABJ holds the distinction of representing the Afro-Caribbean diaspora.
Vice President Gimel Pinto said, “While in college, it is an honor to be part of an amazing group of the most talented media pros in the nation.”
Since its founding in October 2022, UVIABJ has hosted several events to promote journalism within the UVI and the wide Virgin Islands community.
These events, such as the annual Caribbean Film and Artistic Festival, and Journalism Summit, have not only highlighted local and international guest speakers but also made a significant impact on the local and global community.
Former grads, Michael Bell and George Francis serve as undergrad co-advisors
Former graduates of the UVI Communication Unit in the Communication and Performing Arts Department, Michael Bell and George Francis serve as undergrad co-advisors and work closely with the current members.
“We are excited to work with this group of talented students who have shown great personal and professional growth,” said Francis, founder and past UVIABJ executive board member.
Dr. Sharon Albert Honore continues in her role as faculty advisor and says she is “proud to watch this young organization continue to grow and strengthen their journalistic talents.”
Honore adds that she is “encouraged to see new leadership engage in effortless transfers of power.”
