Local News

Gianna Stapleton is Valedictorian again 

26 June 2025
This content originally appeared on One News SVG.
Cross Continental Forum Barbados
Ms. Gianna Stapleton, 2025 Valedictorian of the CAPE programme of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College’s Division of Arts, Sciences, and General Studies (DASGS).

By Admin. Updated 1:50 p.m., Thursday, June 26, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

Approximately two years after being awarded valedictorian at the St Vincent Girls’ High School, Gianna Stapleton has achieved the distinction once more—this time at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC).

The 19-year-old resident of Twenty Hill, Penniston, was announced as the top student in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) programme during the SVGCC’s annual joint graduation ceremony, held on 24 June at Victoria Park.

Ms Stapleton completed studies in CAPE Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Pure Mathematics, Communication Studies, and Integrated Mathematics.

Speaking to One News SVG, Gianna, who was a member of the Intellect Collective Club—a STEM group at the SVGCC—expressed her interest in both medicine and engineering. However, her immediate plans include taking “a much-needed vacation” following the completion of her CAPE studies.

“Academically, I have a strong passion for both medicine and engineering, so I’ll use this time to reflect carefully on my interests and decide which path best suits my goals. Once my CAPE Unit 2 results are released, I’ll also finalise my choice of university and take the next step in my academic journey,” she said.

Motivated by the well-known saying, “Your attitude determines your altitude,” and Philippians 4:13 (NKJV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Gianna explained how she managed to sustain academic excellence at the SVGCC.

“I managed my time by setting clear priorities, breaking tasks into smaller goals, and sticking to a consistent schedule. Starting early and staying disciplined helped me balance my workload, avoid burnout, and stay on track throughout the two years,” Ms Stapleton told One News SVG.

As with every journey to success, Gianna encountered several challenges.

“In my final semester, a very close family member fell ill. It was an emotionally difficult time filled with uncertainty, but I reminded myself that they would want me to keep striving for my best. That thought gave me the strength and motivation to push through,” she shared.

“During slow or uncertain moments, I reminded myself that real growth takes time. I focused on small wins—whether that was finishing a module, improving on a past paper, or even strengthening a weaker topic—and trusted that consistent effort would pay off. Support from loved ones and my own long-term goals kept me grounded and motivated,” she further stated.

Her ability to overcome obstacles and remain focused extended beyond her personal drive and determination.

“I was truly blessed with a strong support system. My parents—Bennie and Giselle—along with my grandparents and extended family, were always there to listen, offer encouragement, and share words of wisdom. My friends made me laugh when I needed it most. We studied together, supported one another, and connected easily because of our similar interests,” she said.

“My lecturers played a key role in my journey. One memorable moment was when they encouraged me to apply for a prestigious five-week STEM programme in Barbados during the summer of 2024. There, I had the opportunity to collaborate with top students from across the Caribbean. This experience not only broadened my academic horizons but also deepened my passion for science and innovation,” the valedictorian added.

To prospective SVGCC students, Gianna offered valuable advice.

“My strongest advice is to plan ahead and work consistently. Don’t wait for deadlines to sneak up on you—make a schedule that spreads the work across your days so you’re not cramming at the last minute. It’s also important to take care of yourself; sleep and breaks will help you focus much better than all-nighters. Finally, never hesitate to ask for help when you need it—whether it’s reaching out to a teacher for clarification or studying with classmates,” she shared.

The most significant lessons she will take from her time at SVGCC include “Resilience, self-discipline, and learning to manage my time wisely. CAPE has shown me that with focus, perseverance, and good time management, even the toughest challenges can be overcome,” the academic star shared

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Community College (SVGCC) has four Divisions, namely, the Division of Teacher Education (DTE), the Division of Technical and Vocational Education (DTVE), the Division of Nursing Education (DNE), and the Division of Arts, Sciences, and General Studies (DASGS).

In January 2024, the SVGCC commenced The Centre for General and Continuing Education (CGCE). The department is responsible for four main areas, namely Community Outreach; Short Courses; the College Access Programme: Pathways to Success (CAPPS); and the Maritime Training Programme.

END

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