Jan. 11, 2003 – Dr. LaVerne E. Ragster, president of the University of the Virgin Islands, will receive national recognition when she is profiled in the Miller Brewing Company 2003 Gallery of Greats calendar.
The calendar will feature 11 prominent African-American educators from public historically black colleges and universities. Dr. Ragster, one of the two female educators featured in the 2003 calendar, will be recognized at the Gallery of Greats calendar unveiling and reception on January 22 in Washington, D.C.
"It is an honor to be featured in the Gallery of Greats calendar alongside so many accomplished educators," Dr. Ragster said. "By featuring my profile, the Miller Brewing Company gives the university the opportunity for national exposure. I am hopeful that those who see the calendar will be inspired to obtain more information about UVI."
Dr. Ragster, who was born and raised in the Virgin Islands, undertook presidential duties at UVI on August 1, 2002, and will be inaugurated on March 16. She began a relationship with UVI in 1980 as an associate professor of biology, working her way up the ranks to provost and senior vice president before being selected as president.
In a letter to Dr. Ragster, Miller Brewing Company corporate relations manager Larry Waters said, "The 2003 Gallery of Greats theme, 'Turning Dreams Into Reality,' aptly reflects what you do every day for the thousands of students who walk through your doors. We are extremely proud to recognize your accomplishments through this very special event."
Miller Brewing Company has produced the Gallery of Greats Calendar for more than 20 years in an effort to acknowledge and honor individuals who have made significant impacts within the African-American community. Congressmen Jesse Jackson, Jr. and Chaka Fattah, along with Senators Herb Kohl and Arlen Specter will also be honored at the reception for their continuous support of higher education.
For more information or to purchase the 2003 Gallery of Greats Calendar visit the Gallery of Greats Web site.
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