PVAMU National Alumni Association Charters first International Chapter in the Bahamas

History was made on September 7, 2020 with the installation of the Bahamas Chapter of the Prairie View A&M University National Alumni Association in a Virtual Ceremony. Kimberly Runnels, Association’s president welcomed the new chapter and the members, including the sixty-one charter members who graduated and or attended the Texas University.  Runnels also installed the Charter Officers: Kendal Turner (President), Philip Dorsett (Vice President), Andrew Albury (Secretary), Torrie Richardson (Treasurer), Dawson Ferguson (Assistant Treasurer), Earl Bastian Parliamentarian) and Dr. Margaret Waters (Chaplain).

Other participants included Collis Sherman Bell (MC), Willie J. Bell, Jr. (Trustee), Vernita Harris (Trustee), Deborah Jackson (Trustee), Frederick V. Roberts (Trustee), Karen Archer  Symonett (Trustee), (Cleveland Williams (Vocalist) and The Honorable Peter Turnquest, Deputy Prime Minister the Bahamas.

 

In welcoming the new chapter, Runnels stated that she was indeed pleased to join the members for the auspicious event and pledged to support the organization in its activities. She also welcomed the association to seek to host a National Convention in the future.  Roberts challenged the group to bid for the 2023 convention which will mark the 50^thAnniversary of the relationship with Prairie View A&M University when some 35 students enrolled on a special PVAMU-Bahamas Friendship Fellowship. The program was a gift to the Bahamas on its Independence in July 1973 through the relationship of Dr. Doris E. Johnson, then President of the Bahamas Senate and Dr. Alvin I. Thomas, President of the university.

 

Since 1973 more than 250 Bahamians have earned degrees in Agriculture, Architecture, Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering, Industrial Education and Nursing. The graduates have made significant contributions to the welfare and development of the Bahamas over the years in their respective professions.

The Chapter has embarked on several ambitious ventures to include a Scholarship Program for students attending and planning to attend the university and a Mentoring Program for current students and professionals as well as mentoring for the young professionals.  Scholarship applications ae being accepted through April 30th, 2021. Request application through writing to Scholarship Committee Chair scholarships@bahamasprairieviewalumni.org. Additionally the chapter is publishing its Bahamas PVAMU Legacy Book, a fundraiser highlighting members and community businesses to commemorate the occasion.  Persons interested in supporting the program should contact Vernita Harris at 713-446-4600 or email Vernita@impact06.com.