University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Athletics leader and alumna Donna Andrews has made basketball history. Last week, Andrews was one of two Virgin Islanders inducted into the Paradise Jam Hall of Fame for her significant contributions to the success of the college basketball tournament, now celebrating its twenty-fifth year in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Andrews is the Senior Woman Leader and Administrator in the UVI Athletics department where she manages the day-to-day operations of the Eldrige W. Blake Sports and Fitness Center, coordinates intercollegiate travel for student athletes, and handles other department logistics. Employed at UVI since 1998, Andrews has worked closely with the organizers of Paradise Jam since 2000 when the University began hosting the tournament.
Nels Hawkinson, co-founder and executive director of Basketball Travelers, Inc. which organizes the annual tournament stated, “Donna Andrews’ induction into the Paradise Jam Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of her tireless work behind the scenes. She has been the unseen force ensuring everything runs smoothly, the quiet pillar of support that so many have relied on. Donna’s dedication, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment have shaped countless successes, often without the spotlight she so richly deserves. This honor shines a light on her invaluable contributions and the profound impact she has made on the Paradise Jam from behind the scenes.”
UVI Director of Athletics Dr. Karen Carty added, “Donna is the glue that holds the UVI Athletics Department together, so it’s no surprise that she has been able to provide the same type of support to the Paradise Jam for the last 24 years. The commitment and dedication she displays for the Paradise Jam is what we get to witness daily in the Athletics Department. I am extremely proud of her for this accomplishment and excited that we get to work with a Hall of Famer every day.”
Reacting to the surprise announcement made during the tournament’s opening reception, Andrews said, “Over the years we have developed a camaraderie and friendship with the Paradise Jam team, and it is an amazing feeling and an honor to be recognized for my role in this partnership.” She added, “On a professional level, it’s an honor to have Division I basketball teams appear on our court and to showcase UVI and our state-of-the-art facility on a national stage.”
Andrews is a proud UVI alumna, having earned an Associate of Arts in Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Management, and a Master of Public Administration from the University.
Commenting on Andrews’ prestigious recognition, UVI President Dr. Safiya George said, “Donna’s dedicated involvement over more than two decades has been the common thread contributing to the great success of UVI’s longstanding partnership with Paradise Jam. I could not be more pleased to witness the culmination of Donna’s hard work and commitment to Paradise Jam result in this special honor.”
For more information, contact pr@uvi.edu.
