Lindsey Trost.
Lindsey Trost, a visiting student from California State University, Northridge, who spent the Spring 2025 semester on exchange at the University of the Virgin Islands’ Orville E. Kean Campus, has been awarded the Dr. Richard R. Bond Community Engagement Award by the National Student Exchange (NSE).
The award is one of several NSE Student Achievement recognitions given to participants who make the most of their study away experiences through academic success, community involvement, and creative initiatives. UVI said Trost’s time at UVI left a lasting mark on campus life through the creation of the UVI Drama Club, which she established as a recognized student organization and led into staging the university’s first-ever student-driven theatrical production.
Her efforts began with organizing multiple interest meetings that quickly drew student participation. Trost then secured the rights to perform Murder at Regent Manor, held open auditions, and cast the play. Over three weeks of rehearsals, she both prepared the production and coached her peers in foundational acting skills.
Working with staff at UVI’s Reichhold Center for the Performing Arts, Trost also helped design staging and lighting for the production. The result was two sold-out shows — a significant milestone for a newly created student group making its debut.
UVI NSE coordinator Dahlia Stridiron-Felix praised her impact: “Lindsey exemplifies the spirit of the National Student Exchange—arriving with a vision and elevating the community she joined. By founding the UVI Drama Club and delivering two sold-out performances in collaboration with the Reichhold Center, she created lasting opportunities for student expression and leadership. We celebrate her achievement and the meaningful imprint she leaves on UVI.”
National Student Exchange President Debra Sanborn echoed the sentiment. “Lindsey Trost embodies what it means to be a transformative force while on exchange,” she said. “Her creativity, initiative, and community-building efforts left an indelible mark on the UVI campus and beyond.”
Each NSE Student Achievement Award carries a $500 stipend and is named in honor of former consortium leaders. Trost’s recognition highlights both the personal growth gained through exchange programs and the benefits brought to host institutions by fresh ideas and leadership.
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