Students in the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) Events Management class at St. George’s University marked the culmination of months of planning and community engagement during a handover ceremony at Caribbean House on SGU’s Chancellor Charles Modica Campus. Held on November 19, the occasion brought together students and community partners to recognize the impact of their efforts in support of the Grenada Cancer Society (GCS).
A student-led fundraiser with lasting impact
At the heart of the ceremony was the formal presentation of proceeds raised from the class’s end-of-term event, Spice n’ Spirits: School Fair with a Halloween Flair, to the Grenada Cancer Society. The October 23 fundraiser generated $5,961,80 EC, with $5,750 EC donated directly to the GCS, highlighting the class’s ability to turn hands-on learning into meaningful community support.
Organized entirely by students during the Fall 2025 term, Spice n’ Spirits blended Grenadian cultural elements with festive Halloween-themed activities, transforming the campus into a vibrant, full-day school fair. It featured food stalls, games, entertainment, a photo booth, and strong sponsorship support from local businesses. The event also highlighted the students’ ability to apply both theoretical and practical skills gained in the course, while demonstrating successful execution and a spirit of charitable giving.
“This initiative was more than a school fair,” said Daniel Louison, a third-year SAS student and events manager for the class. “It was a celebration of Grenadian culture, student creativity, and the impact of thoughtful planning and engagement. I’m especially proud of my team, whose shared commitment was driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Supporting cancer awareness and volunteerism
Accepting the donation on behalf of the Grenada Cancer Society, interim chair Dr. Sonia Nixon expressed deep appreciation for the students’ efforts and highlighted the critical role young people play in community health initiatives.
“We rely heavily on volunteers, especially as we continue our work in education and cancer screening with no paid staff,” Dr. Nixon said. “I am truly grateful to SGU and these students for their generosity. Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Grenada, and early detection can save lives. Support like this makes a real difference.”
Preparing students for real-world experience
The Events Management class has a long-standing tradition of pairing hands-on learning with community service. According to Naline Joseph, SAS associate professor in the Department of Business and Management Studies, the course is designed to prepare students for real-world challenges while instilling a sense of civic responsibility.
“This class allows students to move beyond theory and take ownership of complex projects that have tangible outcomes,” said Joseph. “By managing real events with real stakeholders, students gain professional skills while contributing positively to the wider community.”
The ceremony served not only as a handover of funds, but as a celebration of student leadership, collaboration, and SGU’s ongoing commitment to service learning.
