Grenadian students studying overseas continue to excel, much to the delight of Prime Minister Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell. “When I learn of the accomplishments of our students abroad, I realise our efforts to secure more scholarships must be pursued more vigorously, particularly in light of the impact of Hurricane Ivan,” Prime Minister Mitchell said yesterday (Tuesday, December 21). Prime Minister Mitchell, who was informed yesterday by Mexican Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Luis Ernesto Derbez that Mexico will provide 50 full scholarships for undergraduates annually, said the impact of Hurricane Ivan is preventing many families from sending their children to study abroad. “The performance by our students who have excelled in their studies abroad should serve as an inspiration to those here at home hoping to pursue a university education,” the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister was referring to the most recent announcements about Grenadian students studying at Midwestern State University in Texas and Hostos Community College at the City University of New York. Thirteen Grenadian students at Midwestern State University were recognised for their outstanding scholarly achievements. Vicki Alexander, Naudin Alexis, Marvyn Boatswain, Nattalie Cornwall, Sigmund Courtney, Mondell Cuffie, Tim Elias, Vernessa Gilbert, George Matthew, Charmaine Munro, Stacey Paryag, Adrian Peters and Caris Superville received induction into Alpha Chi, the honour society for underclassmen. Associate Provost Dr. Robert Clark called the achievement “remarkable,” noting that this achievement stands out even more when considering the recent trauma that could have affected the students, referring to the devastation caused by Hurricane Ivan on September 7. The Grenadian students made up almost one quarter of the 56 inductees from the entire University. “It is amazing to have a quarter of the elites among the underclass being from the Caribbean. It is even more amazing that more than 20 percent is from one tiny island,” Dr. Clark said. Grenadian students Natasha Bhola, who is pursuing a paralegal degree, and Helen Grenade, a Pubic Administration major, were honoured for making the Dean’s List with perfect grades point average at Hostos Community College at the City University of New York. Both are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, the College Dean’s List and the National Dean’s List. Source: Office of the Prime Minister