USM welcomes Dr. Guadeloupe & research team for presentation on Transatlantic Academic Platform

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) is excited to announce the upcoming visit of Dr. Francio Guadeloupe, former President of the university, and a team of distinguished researchers as part of the Islanders at the Helm initiative, with a particular focus on the Transatlantic Academic Platform. The team will be in St. Maarten from February 22nd, 2024, to engage with the local community and share findings from their ground-breaking research.

On February 22nd, 2024, the team will host a presentation on the Transatlantic Academic Platform from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. in lecture hall 202 at the USM campus. The event aims to promote dialogue and collaboration among academics, policymakers, and the general public on critical issues confronting Caribbean islands, particularly in the areas of culture, climate change, and historical adaptation.

The panel of experts includes Dr. Gregory Richardson, a postdoctoral researcher specializing in the intersection of music, culture, and climate challenges. Mr. Harold Helly (Ph.D Researcher) is conducting archaeological research on historical adaptations to climate change among island inhabitants, with implications for present resilience strategies. Ms. Riddhi Samtani, a St. Maarten native and youth activist, was a key speaker at COP 28 and a recent moderator at the USM 35th Anniversary Lecture series. 

Dr. Francio Guadeloupe, a renowned expert in Caribbean studies and higher education leadership, will moderate the panel discussion. Dr. Gale Rigobert, Dean of Academics at USM, will deliver the opening remarks, laying the groundwork for an engaging and informative discussion. Following the presentation, attendees are invited to a light reception under the Gazebo at USM, which will allow for additional networking and discussion with the visiting researchers and moderators. 

The USM team warmly invites the general public to participate in this enriching event, which promises to deepen understanding and inspire collaborative action toward a resilient and sustainable future for St. Maarten and beyond.