Monroe University, a New York-based institution with a Caribbean campus in Saint Lucia, has announced an expansion of its recruitment efforts in the U.S. Virgin Islands. As part of this initiative, the university has appointed a local Admissions Representative to assist students interested in pursuing higher education at Monroe.

According to a release, Monroe alumna Orngel Erskine has taken on the role of Admissions Representative for the U.S. Virgin Islands. In her new position, she will work to enhance the university’s presence in the territory, providing guidance and support to prospective students.

Recently, Erskine represented Monroe at a widely attended college and university recruitment fair held in St. Croix, St. Thomas, and Tortola. During the event, she engaged with students and their families, discussing Monroe’s academic programs, comprehensive student support services, and the university’s impact on graduates’ social mobility. She also shared insights from her own experience as a Monroe student and highlighted financial aid opportunities available to U.S. Virgin Islands residents through federal tuition assistance programs.

The university said it has built a strong reputation for educating students from the Caribbean. Prior to attaining university status last summer, it was known as Monroe College and had already established itself as a leading institution for Caribbean students. To date, more than 9,000 students and alumni from across the region have either earned their degrees from Monroe or are currently enrolled.

A testament to the university’s influence is Class of 2015 alumnus Alexshandro Rodriguez, a U.S. Virgin Islands resident who pursued a degree in Criminal Justice. Rodriguez credits Monroe for broadening his career horizons, emphasizing the diverse, professional environment, wide range of academic programs, and affordability.

“Monroe will ensure that you are taken care of. I really enjoyed the very diverse professional campus and the many different program options. I’m glad I chose Monroe because it pushed me to accomplish my goals and was one of the most affordable options for me to obtain a U.S. degree,” said Rodriguez.

During her outreach, Erskine noted the diverse faculty and staff at Monroe, many of whom have Caribbean heritage. She also highlighted the university’s commitment to small class sizes, ensuring that students receive personalized attention and an engaging learning experience.

Monroe offers a variety of degree programs through its Schools of Allied Health Professions, Business and Accounting, Criminal and Social Justice, Education, Hospitality Management, Information Technology, and Nursing, as well as its King Graduate School. Additionally, the university provides liberal arts and continuing education programs.

Monroe’s Spring 2025 semester begins on April 29. Students interested in applying are encouraged to reach out to Orngel Erskine for assistance at (340) 201-7107 or oerskine@monroeu.edu.