Ms. Debra D. Hodge has been appointed Director of Youth Affairs and Sports effective 2nd February, 2026.

The new director joins the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports with extensive experience in youth development, having most recently worked as Director of Student Life at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.

Ms. Hodge’s appointment as Director of Youth Affairs and Sports will place her at the forefront of strategic leadership for the development and implementation of national policies, programmes and initiatives for youth empowerment and sports development in the Virgin Islands. In this role, she will lead the day-to-day operations of the Department while focusing on modernising its functions to align with international best practices and strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders.

Permanent Secretary (Ag.) in the Ministry of Education Youth Affairs and Sports, Mr. Claude Kettle said “Ms. Debra Hodge’s thirty-plus years of service at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College reflect a lifetime dedication to our youth. Her leadership in student affairs demonstrated a consistent ability to translate care and guidance into tangible outcomes. In her new role as Director of Youth Affairs and Sports, she is uniquely positioned to expand that impact, guiding initiatives that uplift the territory’s youth and foster a vibrant, active community for all.”

Ms. Hodge holds a Bachelor of Science in Counseling Psychology (Minor in Behavioral Sciences) from the Columbia Union College and Master of Business Administration in Leadership and Development from the University of the People. She has also earned an Executive Diploma in Management from the Charted Management Institute and a Post Graduate Certificate in Business Administration from Manchester Metropolitan University.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms. Hodge said, “I am deeply honored to serve as the Director of Youth Affairs and Sports.  In alignment with our theme for Education Month, 'Strong Foundations for a Future-Focused Generation,' I am committed to ensuring that our youth have the resources and athletic platforms necessary to thrive.  My vision is to cultivate an environment where every young Virgin Islander feels empowered to lead, and every athlete has the support to excel. I look forward to working with the Ministry and the community to turn our collective vision into reality.”

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed the advancement of youth and sport development in the Virgin Islands.