The University of St. Martin (USM), located in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, was established in 1989 by Dr. Albert Claudius Wathey and Ambassador Dr. Hushang Ansary as an annex of Johnson & Wales University. Its founding was driven by the need to enhance the professional skills of employees at the Mullet Bay Resort and Casino, reflecting the island’s growing tourism-driven economy. Initially focused on hospitality training, USM offered transferable credits to Johnson & Wales, laying the foundation for its academic programs. Despite being devastated by Hurricane Lenny in 1999, the university was rebuilt, demonstrating resilience and commitment to its mission. Through a partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI), known as UVI@USM, USM expanded its offerings to include North American-accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees, broadening access to higher education for local and regional students.
USM’s significance lies in its role as the primary higher education institution serving the bi-national community of Sint Maarten and Saint Martin, an island uniquely divided between Dutch and French governance. With approximately 350 full- and part-time students and over 800 alumni, USM offers programs in liberal arts, education, business, and hospitality, alongside non-degree courses like GED and ESL. Its articulation agreements with institutions such as Florida A&M University, University of South Florida, and others enhance its academic reach, providing students with pathways to advanced studies. The university’s commitment to career-oriented education and community development fosters economic and social growth, particularly in tourism, which employs 80% of Sint Maarten’s workforce.
Beyond academics, USM serves as a cultural and community hub, promoting resilience and sustainability through initiatives like climate and disaster risk reduction workshops in collaboration with local and regional organizations. Its location in Philipsburg, a vibrant capital known for duty-free shopping and cruise tourism, underscores its integration into the island’s economic fabric. By offering education that aligns with the needs of the Caribbean region, USM empowers students to contribute to the island’s development while preserving its cultural diversity, reflected in the 100-plus nationalities that call Sint Maarten home.
