In today’s higher-education landscape, effective branding, targeted recruitment, strategic partnerships, and disciplined communication are no longer peripheral activities. They are central to institutional success. The decision to strengthen the Marketing & Business Development Department reflects a clear understanding that these functions must operate not merely as support services, but as drivers of visibility, relevance, and growth across the institution.

The expansion builds on the solid foundation laid by the department’s continuing members, whose institutional knowledge has been critical in grounding this transition. Their contributions have supported access, development, recruitment, and investment initiatives that have advanced The Mico University College’s mission. Importantly, this team has welcomed the addition of new professionals whose expertise strengthens the department’s capacity to respond to emerging opportunities and challenges.

The Expanded Team

The newly expanded department brings together a diverse range of skills essential to advancing the University College’s strategic objectives. The team includes:

• Ms. Erica Bent, Marketing and Business Development Manager
• Ms. Shyan Mitchell, Recruitment Officer
• Ms. Malaika Sterling, Marketing Officer
• Mrs. Yvonne Young-Wallace, Projects Officer – Scholarships & Alumni Affairs
• Ms. Rachel Forrest, Projects Officer – Business Development and Marketing
• Mr. Deon Orrett Montague, Communication and Public Relations Officer
• Mr. Andrew Edwards, Media and Technology Specialist
• Mr. Edward Massias, Graphics Editor

Collectively, this team integrates strategy, recruitment, project development, communications, digital engagement, and creative production — capabilities that are increasingly essential to institutional advancement in the modern university context.

A Clear Institutional Mandate

The department has been charged with a clear and purposeful mandate: to elevate The Mico’s brand, secure new and diversified income streams, and focus the attention of the wider community on the institution’s strategic aims. This charge underscores both the seriousness of the task before the team and the expectations attached to this expanded structure.

Through this investment, The Mico University College is strengthening its institutional capacity and coherence. The expanded department is expected to work collaboratively across the College to enhance public presence, deepen stakeholder engagement, and contribute meaningfully to long-term sustainability and strategic growth.

As this work unfolds, members of the Mico community are encouraged to engage with the department, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that support both the institution’s historic mission and its future direction.

Join the Legacy | Mico 190
Celebrating 190 years of excellence, leadership, and service to Jamaica and beyond.

The post Strategic Expansion of Marketing & Business Development at The Mico appeared first on The Mico Online.

Kingston, Jamaica — The Mico University College is honoured to recognize The Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP, Custos Rotulorum of Kingston, for his distinguished service to education, youth development, entrepreneurship, and public life.

A proud alumnus of The Mico Teachers’ College, Mr. Fuller exemplifies the institution’s enduring tradition of leadership grounded in service. Appointed Custos Rotulorum of Kingston in 2010, he has served with distinction as Chief Magistrate of the parish, advancing justice, civic responsibility, and community development. His exemplary public record has also included several appointments as Acting Governor-General of Jamaica, reflecting the high level of national trust placed in his judgement, integrity, and leadership.

“Lasting national transformation begins with the intentional moral and civic formation of the next generation.”

— The Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP

Commitment to Youth Development

Central to Mr. Fuller’s public service is a sustained commitment to youth development, most notably through mentorship programmes with inner-city youth. Through these initiatives, he provides guidance in discipline, character formation, civic responsibility, and life skills—responding directly to the social challenges confronting young men across urban communities. This work reflects his conviction that lasting national transformation begins with the intentional moral and civic formation of the next generation.

That commitment to youth and education is further reflected in his longstanding service on several school boards, where he has contributed to governance, policy oversight, and institutional development. In these roles, Mr. Fuller has consistently advocated for strong leadership, accountability, and equitable access to quality education, reinforcing the essential link between effective governance and student success.

Leadership in the Education and Book Industry

Mr. Fuller’s public life is complemented by a distinguished career in Jamaica’s book and education sector. He began his professional journey in 1968, including during his years as a student at The Mico. Now Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kingston Bookshop Limited, he has guided the organization’s growth into Jamaica’s largest book selling enterprise, with multiple retail locations and a regional agency network representing leading international publishers.

His professional contributions have remained closely aligned with national educational priorities. Mr. Fuller has worked closely with the Ministry of Education on major initiatives, including the coordination of secondary school textbook distribution under the national book rental system. Through scholarships, bursaries, internships, and institutional support, he has consistently expanded access to education, including sustained engagement with The Mico University College.

Awards and Honours

A founding member and past president of the Book Industry Association of Jamaica (BIAJ), Mr. Fuller has received several national and professional honours. These include The Mico University College Alumni Association’s Gold Medal Award and the BIAJ Trail Blazer Award. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of Huddersfield in the United Kingdom.

Honorary Degree

In recognition of a life of service reflecting the values of leadership, mentorship, and national development, The Mico University College will confer upon The Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP, the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Education in Leadership (EdD).

Join the Legacy | Mico 190
Celebrating 190 years of excellence, leadership, and service to Jamaica and beyond.

The post The Mico University College to Confer Honorary Doctorate on The Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP appeared first on The Mico Online.

Talk Di Tings! is open to anyone with a story to tell, inviting real-life narratives (up to six minutes in length) to be submitted in writing by September 15, 2025.

And the rewards are worth it:

• 1st Place: $30,000 JMD
• 2nd Place: $20,000 JMD
• 3rd Place: $15,000 JMD

The winners will also gain automatic entry as semi-finalists in the annual What’s Your Story, Jamaica? showdown – where the top prize soars to $400,000 JMD (USD $2,500).

Want to throw your hat in the ring?
Read more here: Talk Di Tings! brings truth, talent, and big prizes to the mic
Follow @jaikupoetry on Facebook and Instagram
Or email jaikupoetry@gmail.com

Thanks to the support of Miconian Scholarship Donor Mr. Canute Lawrence, this initiative gives aspiring writers and storytellers the chance to share their truth, showcase their talent, and compete for life-changing prizes.

So, what’s your story? Talk Di Tings!

The post TALK DI TINGS! – Send Real Stories Now! appeared first on The Mico Online.

In addition to orientation activities, the day will feature a special services fair, giving students, staff, and guests access to a wide range of resources, including:

• Passport renewal services (via PICA’s online adult renewal system)
• Account openings and loan opportunities from First Heritage Co-operative Credit Union (FHC)
• Special offers, discounts, and sampling opportunities from partner businesses
• Networking opportunities to connect with companies offering support for student success, like the Students’ Loan Bureau.

All staff are invited to join in welcoming the new cohort and engaging with the sponsors and service providers who will be on site.

Passport Renewal Requirements

Participants wishing to complete their PICA Online Adult Passport Renewal must bring the following:

• Recent passport-size photo (digital or physical, taken within the last 6 months)
• Birth Certificate
• Expired Passport (passport number must begin with the letter “A”)
• Debit or credit card for online payment (no cash accepted)
• A valid email address

Note: Only adult passports issued on or after September 3, 2001, are eligible for online processing.

The post Mico to Host Exciting On-Campus Orientation and Services Fair appeared first on The Mico Online.

The session opened with greetings and reflection led by Dr. Kay Dunkley, Team Lead for the Office of Quality Assurance, and Rev. Bosworth Mullings, University Chaplain. The highlight of the evening was a heartfelt welcome by President Dr. Asburn Pinnock, who reminded students of the institution’s proud legacy and their role in shaping the future of Jamaica.

Dr. Pinnock congratulated the new Miconians on choosing The Mico, describing it as “the oldest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere and arguably the most accomplished and legendary institution across the Caribbean”. He urged students to embrace resilience, responsibility, and versatility as guiding principles, and encouraged them to see themselves as “legends in the making.”

The programme also included remarks from Registrar Mrs. Mercedes Deane, a comprehensive registration overview by Mrs. Phoebe Brown-Francis, and financial guidance from Mr. Devon Gardner and Mrs. Yvonne Young-Wallace. Families and supporters also received tips on how best to encourage their new Miconians, in a session led by Mrs. Denese Walker-McCarthy.

The evening closed with a lively Q&A session, giving students the opportunity to clarify important matters as they prepare to begin their academic journey.

As The Mico prepares to celebrate its 190th anniversary, students were invited to participate in the “Join the Legacy” campaign, which challenges them to think bigger, contribute meaningfully, and add their own chapter to the institution’s long history.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ORIENTATION AND READ DR. PINNOCK’S PRESENTATION BELOW!

The post Mico Welcomes New Undergraduates at 2025 Orientation appeared first on The Mico Online.

In a recent email to The Mico community, President Dr. Asburn Pinnock confirmed that since entering its public phase, the campaign has already generated over 103 active applications. He also expressed gratitude for the collective effort behind the initiative, stating:

“The Road Tour is not just about visibility. It is part of a broader recruitment drive designed to establish long-term relationships with high schools, churches, and national agencies.”

The Road Tour is a cornerstone of the campaign, but has been temporarily paused until the upcoming General Election is over. They are expected to resume in the new school term, and will culminate on October 17, 2025, during Heritage Week.

With its focus on legacy, recruitment, and national engagement, the campaign reflects The Mico’s continuing commitment to building Jamaica’s future through education.

The post “Join the Legacy” Campaign Inspires Future Miconians appeared first on The Mico Online.

The Mico University College has announced a change to the start of classes for Semester 1 of the 2025–2026 academic year.

In a bulleting released by President Dr. Asburn Pinnock, the University College confirmed that the adjustment was made in recognition of the upcoming 2025 General Election and to ensure that staff, students, and contracted personnel assisting with the electoral process are able to fully participate.

As a result, all classes are now scheduled to begin on Monday, September 8, 2025.

Registration dates previously outlined in Bulletin #76 remain unchanged. However, modifications to the orientation schedule will be communicated shortly by the respective Divisions.

Dr. Pinnock reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the civic responsibilities of its community, emphasizing the importance of creating space for Miconians to exercise their right to vote.

The post The Mico’s Presidential Bulleting 077 – Semester One Changes appeared first on The Mico Online.

My Fellow Miconians, Esteemed Academic, Administrative, and Ancillary Staff – The baton has been passed, and I am ready to run.

Today, I assume office as President of The Mico University College Guild of Students for the 2025–2026 academic year with one unshakable promise: the voice you have entrusted to me will never be silent, and the trust you have placed in me will never be taken for granted.

This role is not a ceremonial title to wear with prestige; it is a responsibility to carry with courage, integrity, and action. You have placed your confidence, your trust, and your hopes in my hands. I commit to leading with the strength to speak when it matters, act when it counts, and deliver when it is needed most.

I step into this position not as a newcomer to service, but as one shaped by it. Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of serving as Deputy CTD, Commissioner of External Relations, and Vice President of Student Services and Communication. In boardrooms and classrooms, during triumphs and trials, I have represented your interests. I have listened, I have learned, and I have fought for the change you deserve.

Some believe true power stays quiet. I believe true power shows up, stands firm, and works tirelessly in the open for those it serves. Power is not proven in silence—it is proven in service. That will define this Guild’s tenure.

To our academic, administrative, and ancillary staff, I recognize you as partners in the student experience. Though our responsibilities differ, our purpose is shared: the success and well-being of every student. I look forward to working with you in the spirit of respect, collaboration, and progress.

To my fellow students, you are the heartbeat of The Mico. Every voice, every dream, and every ambition matters in the work we will do this year. This Guild belongs to you. Your concerns will be heard, your rights defended, and your welfare championed with relentless determination.

My vision is clear and uncompromising:

• A Guild that puts students first—always.
• A campus environment where concerns are addressed promptly and decisively.
• Stronger connections between the Guild and the wider student body through open communication and genuine engagement.
• Initiatives that deliver lasting impact, not just short-term fixes.

This year, the Guild will be visible, vocal, and vital. We will not shrink into the background or wait for change—we will drive it. Our success will not be measured in promises, but in results you can see and feel.

But this is not my journey alone. I call on each of you: bring your ideas, your energy, your criticisms, and your hopes. Stand with me, work with me, challenge me, and together, let us build a year that will be remembered long after we have moved on.

Once a Miconian, always a Miconian. This year, let us show the world exactly why that name commands respect.

Richardo Forrester
President, Guild of Students 2025–2026

The post A New Chapter Begins: Inaugural Message from the Guild President appeared first on The Mico Online.

With these words, I reflect on the end of my tenure as President of The Mico University College Guild of Students, which officially concluded on July 31, 2025. The flight has landed—and what a journey it has been.

We took off together on August 1, 2024, guided by ambition, anchored in purpose, and committed to service. Along the way, we experienced victories—some bold, some quiet, but all meaningful. We also encountered lessons that stretched and strengthened us, both individually and collectively. Through it all, one thing remained constant: the resilience, dedication, and shared commitment to uplift and serve the students of this great institution.

This year was never about individual accolades. The success of the Guild was built on the selfless efforts of a remarkable team. I had the privilege of leading alongside some of the finest student leaders The Mico has ever known—individuals who gave their time, creativity, energy, and hearts to move this Council forward. A special commendation goes to Levia Campbell, who served her fourth consecutive Guild administration, a perfect 4 out of 4, while upholding excellent academic performance.

To the Guild Council of 2024/25, thank you. To every student—officers, committee members, volunteers, and supporters from the sidelines—thank you for trusting me with the honour of leading. Whether undergraduate, graduate, evening, or continuing studies, your contributions made this year meaningful.

We could not have done it alone. I extend sincere appreciation to the President of The Mico, Dr. Asburn Pinnock, whose humility and guidance inspire us all; to Registrar Mrs. Mercedes Deane and her team for their dedication; and to the Vice Presidents, Deans, Heads of Departments, Lecturers, and Administrative Staff who worked alongside us for the betterment of students.

Our gratitude also extends to the teams at Student Services, Student Finance, Student Affairs, and the Exams Department, as well as our Hall Managers, Ancillary, Maintenance, and Security staff. Special thanks to Mr. Melbourne Hemmings and Ms. Marla Waugh, whose tireless support uplifted so many of our efforts.

Together, we achieved initiatives that enhanced student experiences, strengthened partnerships, and built bridges beyond our campus. And though this chapter closes, the legacy of service continues.

Now begins a new era under the leadership of Mr. Richardo Forrester, your incoming Guild President. Having served faithfully for the last three years, he brings the experience, vision, and dedication needed to lead the Guild forward. The Mico spirit remains in capable hands.

To my fellow fourth-year colleagues, as we prepare to take the next step, let us continue to “Do It With Our Might” and excel wherever we go. Once a Miconian, always a Miconian.

As we mark Emancipation Day and celebrate The Mico’s 190th anniversary (2025–26 academic year), I step aside with gratitude, peace, and hope—hope that those who come after us will shine with even greater brilliance.

With respect and gratitude,

Maurice McLean
Outgoing Guild President 2024-2025

The post Journey Completed, a Legacy Continued: Farewell from Outgoing Guild President appeared first on The Mico Online.

This August, The Mico University College will take its inspiring “Join the Legacy” campaign across Jamaica, reaching at least 24 towns and communities. The campaign is designed to connect directly with students, parents, and school leaders, while showcasing the rich heritage and ongoing impact of the institution.

Participants will have the opportunity to travel with the campaign team, Irie FM and the Students’ Loan Bureau to represent The Mico, and share their stories. Every stop will offer a chance to encourage young Jamaicans to consider becoming part of a legacy that has shaped leaders, educators, and nation builders for nearly two centuries.

“Each Miconian carries a piece of our history and a vision for the future. By joining the road tour, you are not just representing The Mico – you are inspiring the next generation of Miconians,” according to Dr. Asburn Pinnock, The Mico’s President.

The campaign welcomes volunteers to sign up for one stop, an entire day, or multiple events, making it flexible and impactful for all who wish to participate.

Interested persons can learn more about the campaign here: Hit the Road: Join the Legacy to Inspire Future Miconians or sign up directly at www.themicoonline.com/join.

As the campaign prepares to roll into communities across the island, The Mico invites everyone to stand together in celebrating what it truly means to be part of a legendary legacy.

The post “Join the Legacy” Campaign Hits the Road This August appeared first on The Mico Online.