The Tribune

When gifted data scientist Leandra Moonsammy graduated from University of The Bahamas (UB) as valedictorian of the Class of 2022, with a stellar 3.95 GPA and a suite of top academic honours, including the President’s Award; Alumni Association Leadership Award; Carol Ritchie Memorial Award; and the Mathematics, Physics and Technology (MPT) Academic Excellence Award, her academic excellence came as no surprise. Having also graduated as valedictorian of Temple Christian High School, Leandra was already a standout scholar.

Yet, for all her natural talent, particularly in mathematics and data science, Leandra is quick to credit UB, and specifically its School of Mathematics, Physics and Technology (SMPT), for playing a pivotal role in her academic and professional journey.

“UB gave me the solid foundation in mathematics that I needed to take flight in my career in data science,” she shared. “Through interactions with faculty members and attending numerous career fairs, I became aware of the exciting field of data science, which perfectly combined my interests in mathematics and programming. I am grateful for the supportive lecturers at UB who allowed me to explore my interests and acquire the essential tools to thrive in this emerging field.”

Since earning her degree from UB, Leandra has continued to soar. She completed a Master’s degree in data science at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain. Just three months later, she returned home to give back, joining UB as an adjunct lecturer. Today, she is shaping and inspiring the next generation of Bahamian STEM professionals, helping to strengthen the very institution that helped mold her success.

Fellow UB alum and mathematics standout Stanley Beauchamp shares a similar story of perseverance and purpose. Initially denied the opportunity to study abroad due to nationality restrictions, Stanley enrolled at UB, where he not only persevered but excelled, ultimately becoming the top graduate in the Electrical Engineering Technology programme.

When he graduated in 2024, Stanley received multiple accolades: the Bahamas Power and Light Co Ltd Mathematics, Physics and Technology Award, the Mathematics, Physics and Technology Award for Academic Excellence, and the prestigious George Swann Award for Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology.

“I felt very honoured,” said Stanley. “All the hard work finally paid off. That was a testament that hard work, brilliance, and also determination paved the way for me to win those three awards, and I’d like for other people to use that as encouragement to also stay focused and to be in the same position I am years from now.”

Today, both Leandra and Stanley represent a new generation of Bahamian professionals; globally competitive, community-minded, and deeply committed to national progress. Their achievements speak to the transformative impact of a UB education, not just as a launching pad for personal success, but as a catalyst for national development.

UB’s School of Mathematics, Physics and Technology continues to be the premier hub for nurturing talent in the STEM fields, supported by a dedicated team of full-time and part-time faculty who remain invested in their students’ futures.

“The School of Mathematics, Physics, and Technology (SMPT) is delighted to see two of our exceptional students, Leandra Moonsammy and Stanley Beauchamp, being recognised as rising stars,” said Professor Renate Roberts-McWilliams, Chair of SMPT. “Their achievements are a true testament to the excellence that SMPT strives to cultivate. We are proud to produce graduates who are not only academically gifted but who are also using their knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to The Bahamas and beyond.”

From the halls of UB to the wider world, alumni like Leandra and Stanley are proof that the University of The Bahamas is not just educating students, it is building the nation.

• “Gain An Edge” is a collaboration of Lyford Cay Foundations, the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute and the University of The Bahamas aimed at promoting a national dialogue on issues surrounding education. To share your thoughts, email gainanedge@tribunemedia.net.