A month after announcing plans to create the Institute for Canada-Caribbean Studies, Brock University continues to strengthen its connection to the Caribbean.

The University welcomed the Governor General of Antigua, Sir Rodney Williams, and his wife, Lady Sandra Williams, to campus on Tuesday, May 14.

The couple was inspired to come to Niagara following a visit by Brock University President Gervan Fearon to Antigua in the Spring of 2018. They were also drawn to campus by the recent news Brock plans to partner with the University of the West Indies to create the Canada-Caribbean Institute.

The initiative would provide a focal point for multi-disciplinary research and teaching to deepen and improve the multi-faceted relationships between Canada and the Caribbean and examine issues affecting the Caribbean diaspora communities in Canada.

“We’re grateful for Brock’s commitment to the future of Canadian-Caribbean studies,” Rodney said. “We look forward building on our relationship and welcome the initiative shown by both Brock University and the University of the West Indies in the creation of the institute.”

Since first announcing a proposal on April 5, Brock University has received significant interest on campus and from faculty and scholars from across Canada and the Caribbean.

James Mandigo, Vice-Provost, Enrolment Management and International, leads the development of the institute at Brock.

“The vision of the proposed institute is to positively impact the quality of life of those living in Canada and the Caribbean. By connecting scholars from across Canada and the Caribbean to collaborate on important social, environmental and economic issues that are vital to the shared prosperity of both regions, we help to build inclusivity and equity through understanding,” Mandigo said. “Establishing the institute is a reflection of our approach to teaching and learning, research and creativity, administration and service provision, and community engagement.”

As Brock moves towards a formal proposal to establish the institute, the University is looking for input from the community. Brock would like to learn of people’s interest in and ideas for current and potential areas of collaboration.

Interested members of the University community are asked to complete a survey by Friday, June 21.