UVI Remembers Roy D. Jackson Sr. for Decades of Service as Trustee, Faculty Member and Benefactor

UVI is mourning Trustee Emeritus Roy D. Jackson Sr., an alumnus, adjunct faculty member and longtime trustee who chaired the Finance and Budget Committee for 10 years. He also served as the first president and CEO of the V.I. Government Development Bank.

  • Staff Consortium
  • August 17, 2026
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The University of the Virgin Islands is mourning the passing of Trustee Emeritus Roy D. Jackson Sr., MBA, CPA, whose relationship with the institution spanned decades as a graduate, adjunct faculty member, trustee, longtime committee chairman, financial supporter and Trustee Emeritus.

Jackson earned his Master of Business Administration from UVI in 1985 and remained closely connected to his alma mater throughout his life.

His service included nearly 13 years on the Board of Trustees, from his appointment and confirmation in March 1997 through December 2009, including a second term. For 10 years, Jackson chaired the Board’s Finance and Budget Committee and, through that role, also served for 10 years on the Executive Committee.

UVI said his background as a Certified Public Accountant brought significant financial knowledge and professional expertise to the Board’s stewardship of the university.

“Trustee Emeritus Roy D. Jackson, Sr. served the University with distinction and an unwavering commitment to responsible governance,” said UVI Board of Trustees Chairman Henry C. Smock. “His financial expertise and decade of leadership as chair of the Finance and Budget Committee strengthened the Board’s stewardship of the University. Beyond his professional contributions, Roy was a deeply respected member of the UVI family whose wisdom, generosity and devotion to the institution touched many. We are profoundly grateful for his service and friendship, and his legacy will remain an important part of UVI’s history.”

UVI Service Extended Beyond the Board

Jackson’s involvement with UVI began well before his service as a trustee.

He worked as an adjunct faculty member from 1975 to 1995, later earning his MBA from the university in 1985. He also financially supported the institution, continuing his connection to UVI as both an educator and benefactor.

UVI recognized Jackson during its March 2010 Charter Day ceremony for his 12 years of service to the university.

Later that year, on Oct. 30, 2010, the Board of Trustees formally granted him Trustee Emeritus status in recognition of his contributions.

UVI President Dr. Safiya George said Jackson’s involvement reflected a sustained commitment to the institution.

“On behalf of the University of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Trustee Emeritus Roy D. Jackson, Sr.,” said UVI President Dr. Safiya George. “Trustee Jackson’s decades-long relationship with UVI and the many ways in which he gave his knowledge, expertise, time and resources speak to his extraordinary commitment to this institution. The University is deeply grateful for his significant contributions, and we join the Virgin Islands community in honoring his legacy of service.”

Career Included Banking, Accounting and Public Service

Jackson’s professional and public-service record extended beyond the university.

He was proprietor of Roy D. Jackson and Associates, an accounting firm, and served as the first president and chief executive officer of the Virgin Islands Government Development Bank.

His community and public service also included involvement with the V.I. Board of Public Accountancy, Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority, The West Indian Company Limited and Rotary.

UVI and its Board of Trustees extended condolences to Jackson’s wife, Merilyn Jackson, along with his family, friends, colleagues and others mourning his passing.

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