The New Rochelle campus of Monroe College transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, community, and pride on October 31, 2025, as students, faculty, and staff gathered to commemorate the independence days of four significant Caribbean nations: Sint Maarten, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, and St. Vincent & The Grenadines. This spirited event, a cornerstone of Monroe’s commitment to its diverse international student body, offered a rich tapestry of performances, traditional cuisine, and heartfelt camaraderie, underscoring the college’s global identity.
A Celebration of Heritage and Belonging
The celebration, held in the college’s Dining Lab, was a vivid testament to Monroe’s dedication to fostering a sense of belonging among its students, many of whom are thousands of miles from their homelands. As part of the institution’s “International Initiative,” launched in 2023 under President Marc Jerome, the event aimed to create a genuine community for students representing over 135 countries within Monroe’s population of more than 9,000 students. The initiative seeks to make students feel at home, even when far away, by celebrating their unique backgrounds and shared experiences.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy as the room filled with the distinctive rhythms of Caribbean music. Students and staff showcased their rich cultural heritage through an array of captivating performances, including original songs, dynamic dance routines, and moving spoken word pieces. These artistic expressions not only celebrated the specific traditions of each island nation but also highlighted the interconnectedness and shared spirit of the broader Caribbean diaspora.
Honoring Independence Across the Islands
The event specifically honored the independence days of four nations, each with its own unique history and path to self-governance:
* Sint Maarten: While the island officially became a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on October 10, 2010, November 11th is celebrated as Sint Maarten’s Day, commemorating Christopher Columbus’s sighting in 1493. The island’s identity is deeply rooted in its dual French and Dutch heritage.
* Antigua & Barbuda: Celebrated on November 1st, this twin-island nation gained its full sovereignty from the United Kingdom in 1981, marking the culmination of its struggle for self-determination.
* Dominica: Known as the “Nature Island,” Dominica celebrates its independence on November 3rd, having achieved full autonomy from British rule in 1978. Its culture is a vibrant blend of indigenous, African, and European influences.
* St. Vincent & The Grenadines: This southern Caribbean nation observes its Independence Day on October 27th, marking its separation from the United Kingdom in 1979, making it the last of the Windward Islands to gain full independence.
While the celebration occurred on October 31st, it served as a timely acknowledgement of these significant national milestones, bringing together the spirit of these diverse islands within the Monroe community.
A Taste of Home and Community Spirit
Beyond the performances, the event offered an authentic culinary journey, with traditional dishes providing attendees a cherished “taste of home.” These familiar flavors stirred a sense of nostalgia and pride among students, reinforcing the emotional and cultural connections that define community for those far from their native lands. Tara George, from Monroe’s Health & Wellness team, emphasized the profound impact of such familiar comforts, stating, “Something as simple as having a conversation in your native tongue or sharing a meal that feels familiar makes a world of difference for students who are far away from their families and communities.”
Showanna Arthurs, a Criminal Justice major from Sint Maarten, skillfully served as the event’s emcee. Reflecting on her role, she shared, “The Caribbean is a melting pot of cultures, and to celebrate alongside the other nations really hit close to home because we are very close in culture. The different speeches and performances made it really feel like a real Caribbean celebration — and let’s not forget about the food!”
Distinguished Guests and Future Connections
The celebration was further enriched by the presence of distinguished guests representing several Caribbean nations. These included Mr. Randy McIntosh, the Consular General of St. Vincent & The Grenadines, and his wife, Mrs. Seymone McIntosh; Ms. Sherll Mason and Mr. Atiba Williams, Diaspora Representatives for St. Vincent & The Grenadines; Mr. Kenyo Baly, a Music Artist and Cultural Ambassador for St. Maarten; and Dr. Day, Diaspora Liaison for Antigua & Barbuda. Their attendance underscored the importance of celebrating and supporting the Caribbean community within the academic environment.
Organized primarily by Joeane Laurent, Dean of Monroe’s First-Year Experience program, and supported by Tara George, the event was hailed as a remarkable success. It served as a vibrant reminder of the power of cultural celebration and the strength found in unity, highlighting Monroe University’s ongoing commitment to diversity, pride, and shared heritage. The news of this successful event spreads through campus news outlets, reinforcing Monroe’s position as an institution that actively embraces and celebrates its global student population.
This annual celebration at Monroe College not only honors the independence of Caribbean nations but also solidifies the college’s role in fostering a truly inclusive and globally connected academic environment. The echoes of music, the shared laughter, and the authentic flavors served as powerful symbols of unity, pride, and the enduring spirit of the Caribbean community at Monroe.