College buildings to be renamed in honour of education giants
The H Lavity Stout Community College (HLSCC) has announced that its main campus building will be renamed in honour of veteran educator Dr Charles Wheatley, while the Virgin Islands Studies Institute will be renamed after his late wife, Jennie Wheatley.
The announcement was made by Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley during the college’s 33rd graduation exercise on June 11, where more than 200 students graduated from various programmes.
Addressing graduates and guests, the Premier described the renaming decisions as a fitting tribute to two individuals who played significant roles in the institution’s development.
“There are those persons among us who have made such a marvellous contribution to the field of education, and specifically to this institution, that we honour them in very special ways,” Premier Wheatley stated.
He revealed that the college’s Board of Governors had approved the renaming of the main building in recognition of Dr Charles Wheatley’s contributions.
“The building that we all know as the main building that you approach when you are driving into the college, a building that we are familiar with, will very soon bear the name of someone who’s made a marvellous contribution to the college. And I want you to stand and to give applause to Dr Charles Wheatley,” the Premier announced.
He said the second honour was especially meaningful because it recognised the work of a person who was no longer alive to witness the occasion.
“I know that it is even more special for him, the next person, who I’m regretful is not here with us today to be able to witness this honour, but is fully deserving. Because she, along with her husband, nurtured this institution like it was a child of theirs,” the Premier said.
He then announced that the Virgin Islands Studies Institute would be renamed the Jennie Wheatley Virgin Islands Studies Institute.
Calling her “one of the greatest daughters of the Virgin Islands,” the Premier urged those present to honour her memory and contributions.
“We honour her memory. We honour her sacrifice to this institution and to the people of these Virgin Islands,” the Premier Wheatley said.
The recognition comes as HLSCC continues to expand its offerings and celebrate new milestones.
The naming of the two facilities adds another chapter to HLSCC’s history, recognising the contributions of educators who helped shape the institution as it developed and grew over the past several decades.
Copyright 2026 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
Is that another $500,000 in signs?
I am all in favour of the renaming decision.
Charles’s and Jennie’s accolades are well deserved.
Anyone who knows Teacher Charles and the late Teacher Jenny really knows their long dedicated service to education to this country.
Their contribution to education in the territory started long before HLSCC was even a thought.
I cannot think of a more fitting couple whom this honor could have been bestowed upon.
I am happy Teacher Charles (Dr. Charles. Let me get it right) is with us to witness this honor, and Im sure teacher Jenny is somewhere smiling and looking on.
I do agree that Mr and Mr Wheatley made very valuable contributions to the education system of the BVI. Is there enough buildings and roads etc. to name after all good contributors?
Do, the buildings at the high school have names? I know many former teachers who were marvelous educators.
What your the new Donald so sad . Just get the infrastructure fixed and everyone will love you sorry I know your not capable ok just rename things as usual big yourself up well done.
While the Premier made the announcement, the Board is who came up with and made the decision.
A long overdue well deserved honor and recognition. Dr. Charles H. Wheatley, OBE, is unquestionably the preeminent educator in the Virgin Islands ( British), serving 55 plus years as an educator, he has served in every public sector education position save for Minister of Education, viz, teacher, principal, Chief Education Officer, Permanent Secretary, and President of HL Stoutt Community College. His education contributions have borne fruit and have and are contributing to the growth and development of the Virgin Islands. Bravo Zulu too to Teacher Jennie Wheatley for her long service and immense contribution to education in the Virgin Islands. Congratulations to them both for a challenging and important job well done. They have set an exemplary standard worthy of emulation.
Whilst I understand the necessity of such actions, is it safe to assume that a similar last name as yours suggests, familiarity and/or relational elements?
Let’s hope other wings of the college will bear the names of others, who, while not sharing relational aspects, will be similarly, recognized!