The Association of Dominicans in the Northeast, US (ADNExUS) today celebrated a landmark investment in education, naming four exceptional Dominican students as the first-ever recipients of its inaugural scholarship programme. The South Orange, New Jersey based charity awarded a total of US$8,500 to the recipients in an initiative aimed at easing financial burdens and fostering the next generation of leaders poised to make significant societal contributions.
The scholarships support ambitious academic journeys spanning law, biology, engineering, and nursing at prestigious institutions across the Caribbean and North America. The recipients— Akilah Baron, Shannia Drigo, Chaelle James and Harley Joseph —were selected from a competitive pool of applicants for their outstanding academic achievements, community leadership, and compelling personal resilience.
“These recipients are more than just students with outstanding grades; they are innovators, leaders, and compassionate advocates who have already demonstrated a profound commitment to uplifting others. Each one has a story of resilience and determination that is truly inspiring,” said Sylma Brown, the ADNExUS president. “In them, we don’t just see the future of law, medicine, and engineering; we see the very soul of a community that gives back.”
Meet the Inaugural ADNExUS Scholars
The 2025 ADNExUS scholars represent a diverse range of talents and aspirations, each with a unique story of determination:
Shannia Drigo (Warner, Dominica) – US$2,500: Raised in Good Hope, Shannia is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados. She graduated magna cum laude from Dominica State College and aims to use her legal education for justice and advocacy within her community.
“Receiving the ADNExUS Scholarship reminds me that no dream is too distant when hard work meets opportunity,” she said. “This support brings me one step closer to becoming a lawyer and giving back to the communities that raised me.”
Chaelle James (Wallhouse, Dominica) – US$2,500: An incoming mechanical engineering student at York University in Canada, Chaelle is specialising in renewable energy and sustainability. Inspired by the devastation of Hurricane Maria, she is determined to develop climate-resilient energy solutions for the Caribbean.
“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to be awarded the ADNExUS scholarship. Your generous support is a meaningful contribution to my journey as I pursue a mechanical engineering degree at York University, and I truly appreciate your belief in my goals and potential,” she said.
Harley Joseph (East Orange, NJ, USA) – US$2,500: A biology major on a pre-medical track at Rutgers University, Harley, who has roots in Wesley, has already demonstrated significant leadership as a student representative with the Newark Public School Board and as a volunteer for ADNExUS. He aspires to a career in medicine and philanthropy.
“This scholarship means more to me than just financial assistance; it is an opportunity, it is hope and the belief that my dreams are worth investing in. It will help to lift some of the financial burden off my shoulders and allow me to focus more strongly on my educational goals, growth, and future,” he stated.
Akilah Baron (Roseau, Dominica) – US$1,000: Accepted into the BSc in Nursing programme at All Saints University in Dominica, Akilah has shown incredible resilience in the face of personal hardship. She is passionate about serving others through healthcare and plans to specialise in dermatology.
“Receiving the ADNExUS scholarship means the world to me. It not only lightens the financial burden of pursuing my nursing degree but also reminds me that my hard work and dreams are seen and supported. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity and committed to giving back to my community in the future,” she said.
A Commitment to Paying It Forward
A unique feature of the ADNExUS scholarship programme is its “Pay It Forward” component, which requires recipients to contribute their time and skills to ADNExUS community initiatives. This model is designed to ensure the programme’s sustainability while fostering a culture of mentorship and giving back.
About ADNExUS
The Association of Dominicans in the Northeast USA (ADNExUS) was established in 2014 to unite various civic groups and individuals dedicated to the development of Dominica. Our mission is to foster collaboration in a respectful and purposeful manner. The association aims to identify and support initiatives that promote the island, assist entrepreneurs through our “Pay It Forward” programme, and provide scholarships to young Dominicans who exhibit leadership potential and academic excellence. Additionally, we prioritise outreach to our senior citizens, which is integral to our mission.
ADNExUS is also dedicated to promoting and celebrating Dominica’s cultural heritage through exceptional events and experiences. With a focus on showcasing local talent and our traditions, ADNExUS continues to be a leading force in cultural promotion and community engagement.