The University of the Virgin Islands on Sunday announced the passing of its third president, Dr. Orville E. Kean, whose leadership and vision left an indelible mark on the institution and the territory. Dr. Kean, who served as UVI president from 1990 until his retirement in 2002, was conferred the title of President Emeritus in recognition of his accomplishments and impact during his tenure.
Dr. Kean began his career at the then College of the Virgin Islands in 1966 as a Professor of Mathematics. Over the years, he advanced through numerous roles, including Vice Chair of the Science and Mathematics Division, Dean of Instruction, Acting Director of the Caribbean Research Institute, Executive Vice President, and Director of the Eastern Caribbean Center. He ultimately served as Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs before being appointed as UVI’s president in 1990.
During his 12-year presidency, Dr. Kean led UVI through challenging times, including the recovery efforts following Hurricanes Hugo in 1989 and Marilyn in 1995. His efforts significantly advanced the university’s physical and institutional infrastructure. Key accomplishments under his leadership included the construction of research and extension centers, a water production system, video telephone conference rooms, residence halls, and the Sports and Fitness Center on St. Thomas, which opened in 2001.
Dr. Kean also positioned UVI as a leader in economic development in the Virgin Islands. His vision led to legislative approval for the establishment of the Research and Technology Park (RT Park) on St. Croix, which has since attracted approximately 70 companies and significantly boosted the local economy. Notably, through the RT Park, UVI secured a $5 million donation from Kiril Sokoloff, enabling the creation of the university’s Entrepreneurship Program.
UVI President Dr. Safiya George expressed her condolences, saying, “I join the UVI family in mourning the passing of a great and inspirational leader, who dedicated his entire professional career to educating students and to leading this University with distinction and compassion.” She extended her sympathies to Dr. Kean’s wife, Juliette, his daughter, Dr. Catherine Kean, his son, Michael Kean, and the rest of his family.
UVI Board of Trustees Vice Chair Oran C. Roebuck highlighted Dr. Kean’s dedication to creating opportunities for students: “The Virgin Islands has lost one of its precious treasures, who leaves behind a legacy of hope and achievement. Throughout his career, Dr. Kean worked on initiatives and programs that provided fruitful opportunities for our students to thrive at home and abroad.”
In recognition of his lasting contributions, UVI’s St. Thomas campus was renamed the “Dr. Orville E. Kean Campus of the University of the Virgin Islands” in 2021. This renaming followed legislation sponsored by Sen. Myron Jackson and adopted by the 33rd Legislature in December 2020, with Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. signing it into law in January 2021.
Dr. Kean is remembered not only for his leadership at UVI but also for his warm and generous nature, which endeared him to colleagues, students, and the broader Virgin Islands community. His innovative leadership and unwavering dedication to education have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
UVI will announce plans to commemorate Dr. Kean’s passing in the coming days. Donations in his honor can be made to the Orville Kean Endowment through the link provided by the university or by calling (340) 693-1040 for more information.
British Caribbean News
