June 24, 2009 – University of the Virgin Islands President LaVerne E. Ragster, Ph.D., was named Woman of the Year on Sunday by the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. at its Recognition and Awards Luncheon. The luncheon, held at the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa, also honored Olga Lima as Business Woman of the Year, Rosalie Randolph as Business Teacher of the Year and Ivy B. Williams as Soror of the Year.
Every two years, the chapters of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority Inc. recognize a woman who in her business or profession contributes positively to the community, according to
“This year Epsilon Zeta Chapter selected Dr. LaVerne E. Ragster as our Woman of the Year because of her exceptional educational background, her community involvement and her outstanding employment experience. Being the first female president of the University of the Virgin Islands contributed greatly to her being selected,” said Anette C. Williams, president of the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Iota Phi Lambda.
“The women of the Epsilon Zeta Chapter of the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority are well known for their contributions to our community,” Ragster said. “I am humbled and delighted by this award. It is heartening to have this very special organization recognize the value and importance of our efforts at UVI. ”
Iota Phi Lambda is a national sorority whose members are business and professional women. It seeks to enhance the status of women by promoting interest in business education, the development of personal goals, and the encouragement of civic and social service activities for youth and adults. The sorority is represented by more than 5,000 members in more than 85 cities across the U.S.
For information about the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, contact Sheena Powell at 693-1006.