The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) will recognize two distinguished Virgin Islands leaders with honorary degrees for their exemplary service, dedication and contributions to the territory at the University’s 2025 Commencement Ceremonies.
Retired Brigadier General Deborah Y. Francis Howell and Brigadier General Sally F. Petty will each be presented with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters at UVI’s 61st Commencement Ceremonies. Francis Howell will receive her degree on Thursday, May 15, at 1 p.m. on the Albert A. Sheen Campus (AAS) on St. Croix. Petty will be honored the following day, on Friday, May 16, at 1 p.m. at the Elridge W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center on the Orville E. Kean Campus (OEK) on St. Thomas.
Retired Brigadier General Deborah Y. Francis Howell, a trailblazer in the Virgin Islands National Guard, made history as the first woman to serve as Adjutant General of the Virgin Islands. A proud UVI alumna, General Howell’s military service spanned 36 years, including her pivotal leadership during the Territory’s response to Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.
She holds an Associate of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts in Business from UVI and a Master of Science in Management from Central Michigan University. A highly trained logistician placing in the top ten percentile of her various military courses and a graduate of premier military institutions, General Howell is widely recognized for her exceptional service and leadership having received numerous medals and awards in her illustrious career. Beyond her military accomplishments, she has contributed to the Virgin Islands through her work in government and civic engagement. As a past District Governor of Rotary District 7020, she led efforts across the Caribbean and hosted a major regional conference in St. Croix, bolstering the local economy and community pride.
A dedicated community servant, General Howell is a member of numerous organizations including the American Legion, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Bethel Methodist Church and the Rotary Club of St. Croix West, where she has twice served as president. Her legacy is one of tireless service, deep-rooted faith, and transformative leadership.
Brigadier General Sally F. Petty, also a proud UVI alumna, has devoted over 30 years to shaping future leaders as an educator and military officer. Currently serving as Principal of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, she is widely respected for her unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community collaboration. She holds a Bachelor of Science in History from Norfolk State University, dual master’s degrees from UVI and Air War College, and is a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government Executive Education in Leadership in Homeland Security.
In addition to her leadership in education, Brigadier General Petty has had a distinguished military career. She began her service in 1989 and currently serves as Assistant Adjutant General of the Virgin Islands Army National Guard. Her numerous military honors include the Legion of Merit (2nd Award), Bronze Star Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Known for her resilience and unwavering dedication, she is a symbol of excellence and service in both education and defense.
UVI President Dr. Safiya George stated, “We are proud to honor these two remarkable women and UVI alumnae whose lives exemplify the highest ideals of leadership, courage, and service. Their accomplishments are an inspiration to our students and to the entire Virgin Islands community.”
For more information about UVI’s 2025 Commencement Ceremonies, please visit www.uvi.edu/commencement. For media inquiries, contact pr@uvi.edu.
