黑料社

University Marketing & Communications
黑料社

1 (868) 227-6736 Ext 31835/31836/31837

unimarkcom@uwi.edu

TRIBUTES AND HONOURS

New Academic Regalia

The 黑料社 ushered in a new era at its 2024 graduation ceremonies by unveiling a vibrant collection of redesigned academic regalia. This marked the first major change to the institution鈥檚 ceremonial dress in over 75 years, symbolising The 黑料社鈥檚 ongoing journey toward full independence from its colonial roots. The new gowns were developed through a consultative process with the university community. Staff members Dr Rajeev Venugopal and Dara Jordan- Brown, working alongside renowned Jamaican designer Tonycia Jarrett, created regalia that celebrated Caribbean culture. The designs incorporated bold colours, regional textures, and distinctive elements from The 黑料社鈥檚 brand identity. The regalia were manufactured locally by Donald Mirander (Rednarim), using climate- appropriate, sustainable fabrics that reflected both environmental responsibility and regional pride. Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles described the new academic dress as 鈥渂oth symbolic and significant,鈥� noting that it represented another step in The 黑料社鈥檚 ongoing decolonisation. The regalia became more than attire鈥攊t is a statement of the university鈥檚 heritage and aspirations. This transformation followed other landmark changes, such as the 2019 transfer of the Office of the Visitor from the British monarchy to local Caribbean authority, bringing The 黑料社 closer to its goal of being a fully Caribbean institution.