Nikke Gant, Senior Specialist, Multicultural Marketing at The Home Depot presents UVI Dean of Students, Dr. Colvin Georges, Jr., with a check. Photo Credit: UVI
The University of the Virgin Islands’ Albert A. Sheen Campus has secured a major boost in funding with the announcement of a $250,000 Campus Improvement Grant from The Home Depot’s Retool Your School Program. The award, one of only eight maximum-level grants distributed to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) nationwide this year, will be used to renovate and modernize the campus’s residence hall.
Now in its 15th year, The Home Depot’s Retool Your School initiative is designed to enhance the student experience at HBCUs through sustainable infrastructure upgrades that promote wellness, engagement, and campus pride. Since its launch in 2009, the program has invested more than $15 million in HBCU institutions across the country.
The $250,000 award represents the top funding tier in the program and will be directed toward transforming the Albert A. Sheen Campus residence hall into a more inviting, student-focused living space that aligns with the university’s broader goals of fostering student success and well-being.
“It’s a huge win for our community and a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Residence Life and Student Housing team,” said Dr. Colvin Georges Jr., dean of students on the Sheen Campus. “This grant enables us to create a residential environment that supports student wellness, engagement, and belonging.”
The grant award was officially announced during the Retool Your School Grant Reception held on March 14, 2025. UVI was represented at the event by Vice President of Student Success and Innovation Dr. Pamela Moolenaar-Wirsiy, Interim Director of Residence Life and Student Housing Marie Lamlen, and Dr. Georges.
“This award speaks volumes about the collaborative spirit of UVI and our unwavering focus on creating transformative experiences for our students,” said Dr. Moolenaar-Wirsiy. “We are deeply grateful to The Home Depot for their continued investment in HBCUs and proud that UVI has been recognized as a leader in student-centered campus innovation.”
The planned upgrades to the residence hall are expected to begin later this year.
