WASHINGTON D.C. – Mr. Theo Neilly, Bahamas Consul General to Washington, D.C., and a delegation from The Bahamas Embassy Consular Annex travelled to Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, on Monday, October 21, 2019 to visit the43 Bahamian students from the University of The Bahamas Northern Campus, who were given the opportunity to continue their studies at the prestigious academic institution after the devastation caused by Hurricane Dorian left many of them displaced.
“The demonstration of humanity, generosity and love shown by Dr. William Harvey, President and the Hampton University family is most appreciated,” said Consul General Nelly in a post of the Consular Annex’s Facebook page. “We thank you.”
Hampton University, a renowned historically black institution of higher education, welcomed the students with open arms in September in the aftermath of the devastating storm.
An article published in the university’s HU NEWS on September 25, noted that the university’s “administration, faculty, staff, marching band, cheerleaders and students came together to welcome the newly arrived Bahamian students displaced from the University of the Bahamas — North campus at a Welcome Reception inside the Student Center Ballroom, Tuesday, September 24.”
Dr. William R. Harvey, Hampton University President, officially welcomed the students to their “new home” for the next few months.
In the article, Dr. Harvey noted that arrangements to accept the students at Hampton were made after he had spoken to the University of the Bahamas President, Dr. Rodney Smith, after Hurricane Dorian hit that area.
“Dr. Smith and his wife were doing fine, but he said that his North campus was almost obliterated and obviously that touched my heart,” Dr. Harvey was quoted as saying. “So I told him that Hampton University would provide room and board, tuition and fees for getting the students from that North campus. To me, helping others is truly one of the greatest gifts that an individual can give to another and that’s a part of Hampton’s DNA. I want you new Hamptonians to understand that giving of yourself to others is one of the greatest things that you can bestow on another individual.”
According to the article, “During the reception, Bahamian students heard from several members of the Hampton University community, including offices which provide resources that will help these students transition from their hometowns. These include the International Office, Health Center, and the Student Counseling Center.”
In welcoming the Bahamian students on behalf of the Hampton student body, Jonathan Mack, Hampton University Student Government Association (SGA) President, said: “We would like to extend a warm welcome to your new ‘Home by the Sea.’ As SGA, our number one priority is to constantly advocate on behalf of the student body to ensure that all voices are being heard, while also working with our wonderful administration to ensure that everyone’s Hampton experience is as excellent as possible. Though the circumstances of you joining us may not be the most ideal, I am certain that your tenure here will be filled with unique opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Ms. Cornelia Waugh, graduating senior from Jamaica, and President of the Caribbean Pre-Alumni Council, told the new students that they are welcome to stop by any time for some company or food from home. The Caribbean PAC can provide, “a home away from home,” said Waugh.
The article noted: “Overall, the students from the University of the Bahamas-North campus are appreciative of all Hampton University has done for them and are looking forward to experiencing all the university has to offer.”
Sophomore Krishona Minnis, a business management major from The Bahamas, was quoted as saying: “I want to experience as much as possible here. I want to meet people, and I want to gain as much knowledge as I can.”
