The University of the Virgin Islands has announced that it will honor the life and legacy of President Emeritus Dr. Orville E. Kean with a public memorial and celebration of life service on Saturday, February 8. The service will begin at 10 a.m. in the Elridge W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center on the Dr. Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas.
Dr. Kean, who passed away on January 19 at the age of 86, served as UVI’s third president from 1990 to 2002. His tenure is remembered as a transformative period during which he spearheaded initiatives that elevated UVI as a leader in economic development for the U.S. Virgin Islands. Among his notable accomplishments was the establishment of the Research and Technology Park (RT Park) on St. Croix, which continues to provide significant economic benefits to the territory.
Dr. Kean led the University through challenging times, including the recovery from Hurricanes Hugo in 1989 and Marilyn in 1995. Under his leadership, UVI underwent major advancements in both its physical and institutional infrastructure. Key projects during his presidency included the construction of modern facilities and the enhancement of academic programs, which helped shape UVI into a forward-thinking and resilient institution.
His career at UVI spanned decades, beginning as a mathematics professor and progressing through various leadership roles, including vice-chair of the division, dean of Instruction, executive vice president, and acting vice president for Academic Affairs. Dr. Kean dedication and vision culminated in his appointment as UVI’s president in 1990.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, UVI renamed its St. Thomas Campus the “Dr. Orville E. Kean Campus of the University of the Virgin Islands” in 2021. This renaming honored his extensive service to both the University and the Virgin Islands community.
The celebration of life service will not include a viewing or casket. UVI encourages friends, colleagues, and members of the community to submit tributes in Dr. Kean’s honor via email to [email protected] by January 31 for inclusion in the memorial booklet.
In lieu of flowers, the University invites donations to the Orville Kean Endowment in memory of Dr. Kean. Contributions can be made online at this link, by mail to the University of the Virgin Islands, Office of Institutional Advancement, #2 John Brewers Bay, St. Thomas, VI 00802, or by calling (340) 693-1040 for more information.
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