Haiti: A Lesson in Resilience and Hope at Barry University

Haiti shines in the spotlight for a true lesson in resilience at Barry University

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 9:30 AM, Barry University in Florida held its graduation ceremony. Nearly three hundred graduates from various colleges within the institution were honored. The diversity of programs represented – from doctorates in “dissertation practice” to master's degrees in “curriculum and instruction sciences,” as well as leadership, innovation, fine arts, and liberal studies – testifies to the wealth of skills shaping the contemporary academic world.

In contrast to this celebration of excellence, a painful observation emerges: while universities worldwide resonate with academic achievements, higher education in Haiti has collapsed. Once dynamic, it is now threatened with extinction. Schools are closing, universities are emptying, and access to education is becoming unequal and fragmented. One is led to wonder if education still has meaning in a country where human and moral values are continually trampled.

This profound crisis heralds an uncertain future, forcing businesses to seek expertise elsewhere. Yet, with a strong diaspora of over four million people, hope remains. This diaspora can be the lever for educational, social, and economic reconstruction.

The Barry ceremony began with the American national anthem, followed by significant speeches, including that of Provost, Dr. Pablo Ortiz, who greeted the Haitian audience with a warm “Sak Pase!”, to which an enthusiastic “N ap boule!” responded.

Among the highlights were the interventions of Jeff, an MBA candidate, and Marjorie Lozama, a mental health nurse practitioner and holder of a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Their speeches, imbued with wisdom and compassion, invited graduates to cultivate excellence while taking care of their mental health.

The procession of graduates was interrupted by a solemn and moving moment: the call of two special graduates from the School of Business and Public Administration, Marnatha Irène Ternier and her daughter Hillary Pierre. Welcomed by sustained applause, they were introduced by Dr. Celeste Landeros, who praised their courage, perseverance, and exceptional commitment.

Hillary Pierre, an emblem of Haitian youth that commands admiration

At 23 years old, Hillary Pierre embodies a new generation of Haitian leaders. Coordinator of the Barry CARE Center for three years, she has distinguished herself by a meteoric rise. Starting as a work-study student, she convinced with her rigor and commitment, succeeding an experienced manager.

Holding an Associate Degree in social work, a Bachelor's in psychology, and currently enrolled in an MBA in administration and finance, Hillary pursues a remarkable path, supported by a scholarship linked to her full-time position. She combines professional maturity, community engagement, and academic excellence.