SSB partners with Ponce Health Sciences University

On Monday 28 April,2025 the Social Security Board and Ponce Health Sciences University executed the Heads of Terms agreement, outlining the medical school’s occupancy of the Joe’s Hill Manor Estate.

In an intimate ceremony, the Social Security Board (SSB) and Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU), executed the heads of terms agreement defining the terms to be fulfilled by both parties regarding the Joe’s Hill Manor Estate (JHME).

The partnership, which was first announced in a press conference held March 24, 2025, chronicles a significant step in the establishment of the Territory’s first medical school.

Premier, Hon Natalio Wheatley, expressed that: “This medical school represents great economic benefits to the people of the Virgin Islands. We recognise that this medical school will bring a great influx of young people to the Territory […] and this venture could not be facilitated without the Social Security Board.”

Newly appointed Director of the Social Security Board, Ms Lorie Freeman said: “The Social Security Board is pleased to partner with Ponce Health Sciences University in this capacity. The organisation has continually shown its support for healthcare advancement in the Territory, and this partnership is an endorsement of that commitment.”

When discussing the vision of the partnership, PHSU Vice President of Operations, Dr. Daniel Perez, said: “It makes perfect sense that two institutions dedicated to health, [would] get together in order to fulfil […] the health requirements of the population that they serve.” Dr. Perez concluded his remarks by sharing PHSU’s commitment to serving the people of the BVI.

In his address, Minister of Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent Wheatley emphasized that: “Strategic partnerships such as these are necessary for advancing healthcare in the Virgin Islands. The Ministry [of Health and Social Development] is appreciative of this initiative and looks forward to the advancements which will be made because of this partnership.”

According to Deputy Chairman of the SSB, Mr. Brodrick Penn: “This partnership aligns with the socio-economic empowerment vision of the organisation, particularly considering the potential of the school to impact the Territory financially, socially and even medically.”

Penn further explained that though the Board recognises this partnership as an opportunity to earn a return on its investment, the SSB has not forgotten and will continue to accelerate the initial purpose of JHME.
To date, a fifth of the JHME has been sold or is currently under contract to Virgin Islanders. Subject to agreed caveats, PHSU may lease up to 50 per cent of the property to house its students and faculty. The remainder of the property will continue to be available for purchase. Virgin Islanders interested in purchasing a home at the JHME are encouraged to contact the Joe’s Hill team at 284-852-7827.

Attending the signing were Premier, Dr. Honourable Natalio Wheatley; Minister for Health and Social Development, Hon. Vincent Wheatley; Deputy Chairman of the Social Security Board, Mr. Brodrick Penn; Director of the Social Security Board, Ms. Lorie Freeman and Legal Counsel, Mrs. Annjel Flax Frett. Representing PHSU at the signing were Dr. Daniel Perez, Vice President of Operations and Dr. Anne Peterson, Dean.