The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) joins the Virgin Islands community in mourning the passing of former UVI Board Trustee and retired Superior Court Judge Audrey Thomas.
Revered throughout the Virgin Islands as an unbiased, compassionate, and committed public servant and for the integral role she played in the growth and development of the Territory’s judiciary system, Judge Thomas was also a long-time friend to the University and a Class of 1973 alumna.
Judge Thomas was very active on UVI’s Board of Trustees and the Association of Governing Boards, serving from 2004-2009. She was a member of the Academic, Research, and Student Affairs Committee, the Governance Committee, and the Planning Committee. She also made several presentations at the annual national conferences regarding Governance matters.
Judge Thomas served on the Board of Trustees’ Planning Committee for the 2009 Inauguration when UVI President Dr. David Hall was selected to be the institution’s fifth president.
Describing Judge Thomas as a steadfast supporter who brought intelligence and insight to bear in every situation, President Hall stated: “Judge Thomas was extremely helpful to my family as we made the transition to the Virgin Islands at a pivotal time in my career. She lovingly became a “big auntie” to my daughters Sakile and Kiamsha and regularly checked in on my wife Marilyn to ensure they were all doing well in this significant life change. I was deeply impressed with her character and thoughtfulness, and UVI benefited greatly from her contributions and service as a Trustee.”
Judge Thomas, who retired from the bench in 2012, made many contributions to the community. She lent her passion and time to encouraging, teaching, and mentoring young Virgin Islanders through activities such as the annual moot court competition. She was known to inspire many students to pursue legal careers where they could promote and fight for justice to prevail.
The University of the Virgin Islands extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Judge Thomas.
For more information, contact the Public Relations Office at pr@uvi.edu.