Celebrating excellence, perseverance, and the future of Cayman’s accounting profession
On Saturday, the Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants (CIIPA) hosted the 17th Annual CIIPA Awards Gala, a prestigious event that brought together industry leaders, educators, and rising stars to celebrate excellence in the accounting profession. Among the honourees were several outstanding students and alumni from the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI), whose achievements reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to academic and professional excellence.
Among the evening’s honourees were several outstanding UCCI students and alumni, including Sydia Hydes, Darwin Cook, Leonardo Akagac, Leyma Hayman White, Joshau Bain, Marcia Hurlston Romero, Cliffany Thompson, Kazandra Oller, Jordon Williams, Allison Tatum, and Sherika McPherson. These individuals have distinguished themselves through academic excellence, professional achievement, and a deep commitment to the accounting and finance industries. Many began their journey with UCCI as associate degree students before advancing to bachelor’s, master’s, and professional certification levels, including the esteemed U.S. CPA designation. Their accomplishments are a testament to the quality of education and mentorship offered at UCCI, as well as the dedication of our faculty and the strength of our academic and industry partnerships. Whether they are entering the workforce, pursuing graduate studies, or mentoring others, these honourees reflect the values of integrity, service, and lifelong learning that UCCI proudly upholds.
Dr. Livingston Smith, Acting President and CEO of UCCI, shared his congratulations:
“We are incredibly proud of our students and alumni who continue to raise the bar and represent UCCI with excellence. Their success is a powerful reminder of the impact of quality education, strong community support, and personal perseverance. We celebrate each of them for their accomplishments and for the example they set for future generations.”
Also in attendance at the gala was Belinda Blessitt Vincent, Acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs & Workforce Education, who added:
“It was truly inspiring to witness our graduates being celebrated for their hard work and dedication. Events like this affirm the value of academic excellence and industry readiness that we strive to deliver at UCCI. Congratulations to all our honourees, you have made us extremely proud.”
As UCCI continues its year-long 50th anniversary celebrations under the theme “Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” moments like these serve as proud reminders of the university’s impact across generations. The success of our students and alumni in professional arenas such as accounting highlights the value of accessible, high-quality education and reaffirms UCCI’s role in building a stronger, more skilled Cayman.
