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Department of Communication Studies (DCS) students at the Northern Caribbean University (NCU) in Jamaica, Kasey Williams and Chantelle Rochester, have been appointed Male and Female Burgundy Jacket Holders (BJH) respectively, for the year 2019/20. Rochester is a national of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Both third year communication students were presented the award during the DCS Week of Excellence Affirmation Ceremony held at Northern Caribbean University’s (NCU) Main Auditorium on April 11, 2019.

It is noteworthy that Rochester is the first international student to have been awarded the prestigious BJH title. She is also a part-time broadcaster for SKN Newsline –a media house situated in St. Kitts and Nevis, Student Editor for NCU’s official Magazine – The Weekender, as well as the newly appointed Director of Publications for the NCU’s United Student Movement 2019/20 regime. Williams, who hails from our very own Jamaica, is a Journalist with Irie FM, part-time writer for the Jamaica Observer and Owner of Portlanders News. The appointees are a diverse duo of student leaders.

Department of Communication Studies Chair, Ms. Noreen Daley says she has high expectations of the two appointees. “Given the consistency, and the willingness to help to develop the Department of Communication Studies, I expect great things from the incoming Burgundy Jacket Holders.”

Williams expressed that he is humbled to have been awarded the BJH title. “I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to represent my department in the capacity of BJH.” He added that the jacket is not just to wear, but it symbolizes the responsibility which he now has to his department to represent it to the best of his ability.

Rochester, who was stunned by the results, said she now believes more than ever that God is using her in her capacity to be a blessing to others. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude to God and my DCS family for believing in me, and entrusting me with the honour of holding this prestigious leadership position, God has a plan for me and I intend to allow him to continue to use me to be a blessing and an inspiration to others.”

Both appointees are expected to work closely with Department Chair, Noreen Daley, to innovate, develop, and execute plans and projections which will aid the advancement of DCS.

The Burgundy Jacket (burgundy blazer) is a symbol of prestige that inducts the wearer into an exclusive club of high achievers. These scholars must be individuals who are able to express themselves coherently and fluently and demonstrate exemplary involvement in the university and the community.

The holders act in the capacity of ambassadors for the department and as such must be in good academic standing with GPA above 3.40, possess a 3rd year academic standing, possess strong leadership skills and good deportment.

The newly inducted BJH will serve a tenure of one year until the next holders are chosen.