Double Olympic 100m gold medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce has been appointed the first ever Ambassador of the University of Technology (UTECH), and a new assessment centre aimed at developing the full potential of children with disabilities, named in her honour. President of UTECH Professor Errol Morrison officially appointed Fraser-Pryce yesterday at the university’s graduation ceremony held at the National Arena in Kingston. It was also announced at that time that an assessment centre for children with disabilities, to be established in the School of Allied Health and Wellness, will be named the Shelly-Ann Fraser Assessment Centre for Children. In explaining the reason behind the appointment, UTECH said Fraser-Pryce “has demonstrated significant interest in the university and consistently exudes UTECH pride… (and) she possesses the high standards of integrity to positively reflect and enhance the reputation of the University of Technology.” For the new children assessment centre being named in her honour, the dean of the College of Health Sciences, Associate Professor Dr Ellen Campbell-Grizzle said the Olympian, who graduated with a BSc in Child Adolescent Development “exemplifies the best attributes of a conscientious student, superb athlete and a remarkable human being”. As an ambassador of UTECH, Fraser-Pryce will reflect or personify the values of the university; strive to convey the value of a life-long relationship between the university and all stakeholders both nationally and internationally; serve as official representative of the president/university at designated events for which they may be selected to attend or for university advancement activities. Ambassadors may be appointed for a term of five years and are eligible for reappointment. For her part Fraser-Pryce expressed that “I definitely look forward to carrying the UTECH flag high where ever I go because when I started the programme in 2008 I was told it wouldn’t be possible, I was told it was not for me. But here at UTECH it is a family and I am truly honoured to be part of a family that truly cares about me so much… I am really grateful for being given the opportunity to join such a prestigious institution.”
