Northern Caribbean University (NCU) produces some of the most business savvy graduates with an excellent work ethic. This can in part be attributed to the hands on training and work experience our students garner through the University Business Services (UBS) sector.

Since its inception, the institution has been renowned for its innovative strategies that enable financially challenged students to achieve their educational goals. NCU is the master of the Work-study programme. Though the structure of the programme and the University’s culture has evolved with the changing times, NCU has managed to keep this unique blend of study and work opportunities in on-campus industries alive, and has facilitated its students in paying their tuition. University Business Services is a sector of the institution which helps makes this possible.

A piece of the finely crafted furniture on display at the NCU Wood Product Department 

The UBS endeavours to foster a professional, entrepreneurial spirit among students. It is comprised of several small business ventures: Hilltop Hotel, Food Services (Sorenson Hall Cafeteria, Four Points Cafe, and All-Brands Suprette), NCU Book and Gift Shop, NCU Copy Centre, Post Office, NCU Press, NCU Wood Products and Tub-n-Tumble Laundromat. All these entities make up a critical source of income that helps to make the University financially viable; yet it is also mutually beneficail to both students and the institution, generating new income to keep down the cost of tuition.

Since January 2007, UBS has been under the supervision of a vigilant General Manager, Ms. Sally-Anne Corrodus. She has enjoyed working tirelessly to build and maintain the profitability of UBS, and to generally improve its efficiency, infrastructure, and facilities. Over the past five years, there has been marked improvement and revamping in many of the businesses.

In addition to maintaining a self-sustained, debt-free operation, UBS is on an upward move “from good to great” as described by Mrs Corrodus. She further added that, "the cafeteria has seen the acquisition of new equipment for its kitchen, the consolidation of the pastry department, the introduction of a new check-out system, and a revised and improved menu with a greater emphasis on health food options. The Hilltop Hotel has been renovated for more luxurious and comfortable service. The Woodshop was re-established after it was damaged by hurricane Dean resulting in its   closure.  There has also been a re-tooling of the Laundromat and the procurement of state-of-the-art equipment for the NCU Press."

Undoubtedly, the University has benefited from commendable growth in the relationship it has with its corporate allies and suppliers. Many of the organizations with whom NCU conducts business have caught the vision of NCU for Nation Development and this has resulted in their investing and collaborting with the University. They have also extended a helping hand in events such as NCU Sports Day and Customer Appreciation Day.

But, despite facing mounting challenges, UBS has continued to thrive and looks to further improve its services and facilities. Ms. Corrodus describes her work as more than just a job but “a calling” and, is committed to giving her all to the benefit of needy students and the elimination of poverty.

 Carl Cunningham                                                                                                          Intern (Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Public Relations)