好莱污视频 Institute of Technology (NEIT) recently embarked on a transformative venture to strengthen its academic partnerships and expand its global presence. After months of thoughtful collaboration and strategic dialogue, NEIT Board of Trustees member Phillip Kydd and Assistant Provost Dr. Henry Young met with institutional leaders from Saint Thomas University (STU) in Miami, Florida, and Excelsior Community College (ECC) in Kingston, Jamaica, to establish formal agreements rooted in a shared commitment to growth and academic excellence. These cross-border partnerships mark a significant step forward, promising to enhance educational opportunities and foster meaningful exchange for students and faculty alike.
Forging a Dynamic Partnership in Miami, Florida
The first leg of the trip brought Mr. Kydd and Dr. Young to the vibrant campus of Saint Thomas University. This visit was the final step in solidifying a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between NEIT and STU鈥攁 document that lays the foundation for robust intercollegiate collaboration. The MOU outlines a shared commitment to the exploration of student exchanges, transfer pathways, dual-degree programs, faculty exchanges, and joint research initiatives.
During their time at STU, the NEIT representatives met with President David Armstrong, Provost Michelle Johnson-Barnes, and members of the university鈥檚 leadership team to discuss the strategic vision behind the partnership. They also toured STU鈥檚 expansive Miami campus, gaining firsthand insight into the facilities and academic environment that will soon be accessible to NEIT students and faculty. Mr. Kydd, speaking on behalf of NEIT President Richard Gouse, emphasized the importance of creating meaningful opportunities that allow students to leverage the strengths of both institutions. The initial focus areas鈥攅ngineering, construction management, and computer science鈥攔eflect NEIT’s core competencies and STU’s complementary offerings.
This partnership not only enhances academic mobility but also signals NEIT鈥檚 intent to evolve from a regional institution into a national and international academic player through mutually beneficial intercollegiate collaborations. President Armstrong addressed this issue, stating, 鈥淭his agreement confirms our commitment to a long-term partnership that will benefit both students and faculty of STU and NEIT. Together, we will explore [opportunities], all aimed at advancing the missions of our institutions and providing even greater opportunities for our students.鈥�
Building Bridges in Kingston, Jamaica
The second leg of the journey led Mr. Kydd and Dr. Young to Excelsior Community College in Kingston, Jamaica. This visit was sparked by a serendipitous meeting between Dr. Young and Dr. Philmore McCarthy, ECC Principal, at the 2025 Association of Caribbean Tertiary Institutions (ACTI) conference. Recognizing shared academic goals, both institutions moved swiftly to formalize their collaboration.
Dr. Zaria Malcolm-Walker, ECC鈥檚 Vice Principal for Academic Affairs and Institutional Advancement, played a key role in drafting the MOU under a compressed timeline. The agreement establishes clear academic pathways for ECC students in certificate and associate degree programs to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies at NEIT. It also opens doors for ECC faculty to access NEIT鈥檚 advanced labs and curriculum, fostering professional development and pedagogical innovation. This initiative holds special importance for ECC, aligning with the college鈥檚 mission to enhance its academic programs and empower faculty through access to advanced technology and innovative teaching practices.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Dr. McCarthy stated, 鈥淲e are deeply appreciative of the time, energy, and thoughtful engagement you invested during your visit. The open and candid dialogue was both enriching and inspiring, and it has reinforced our excitement about the potential of this partnership.鈥�
NEIT’s Vision for Global Engagement
The recent whirlwind journey to Miami and Kingston marked more than a series of meetings鈥攊t represented a bold stride toward global academic integration. Through the establishment of formal partnerships with institutions in Florida and Jamaica, NEIT is strategically positioning itself as a nexus for international collaboration. These efforts build on existing agreements with higher education institutions in the Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and St. Lucia, further extending NEIT鈥檚 global reach. Together, these alliances reflect a visionary approach to education鈥攐ne that champions diversity, fosters mobility, and encourages shared innovation. As Dr. Young prepares to lead the implementation of these initiatives, the NEIT community can anticipate a future enriched by global perspectives, expanded academic opportunities, and a deepened commitment to excellence across borders.
For more information about our global partnerships, please contact Dr. Henry Young, Assistant Provost at the 好莱污视频 Institute of Technology.
