Former President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Labor Tribunal, Arthur Forbes, has recently added two distinguished academic titles to his name: a PhD in Theology and the role of Dean for the Turks and Caicos Islands at Smith Christian University.
Forbes received his credentials from Smith Christian University, based in Miami, Florida, during a ceremony held at Hemingway's Restaurant and the Sands Resorts in Providenciales on Monday, June 17. The accolades were presented by Apostle Dr. Earle Fulford, Chancellor of Smith Christian University.
Expressing his gratitude, Forbes stated, “I would like to give thanks to the Almighty God, who has given me the courage, the strength, and perseverance to pursue this course of work. I also want to thank my family for supporting me in this venture. Without your support, I don't think I could have made it. My wife, thank you.”
Reflecting on the challenges he faced, Forbes highlighted the difficulty of completing his thesis.
“I wanted to venture into something new and different. My thesis was about the Sabbath and its observance. In the old days, everyone had to worship on the Sabbath, which was strictly enforced with severe penalties for non-compliance.
“However, in modern times, especially in the Turks and Caicos Islands where many work in hospitality, it’s almost impossible to get Sundays off. Therefore, people need to find other days to worship. This was the basis of my thesis – the Sabbath could not fully be observed on a Sunday in today’s context,” Forbes explained.
Forbes was supported at the event by his wife Tanis, her sister, two of his adult children, Kandrick and Kneshia Forbes, and grandson Tyler Wake-Forbes. He thanked his family for their unwavering support throughout his academic journey.
Chancellor Fulford commended Forbes on his latest academic achievement, emphasizing the transformative power of knowledge. He charged Forbes to use his achievements to be a crusader for change.
“Forbes, you are a testament that knowledge is power. Knowledge can turn society around, change crime and violence, liberate people, and help them develop. It can bring families together and free a nation. You have the knowledge, tools, and opportunities to bring about change,” Fulford said.
Chancellor Fulford also brought greetings on behalf of the Smith University President Dr. H. Leon Smith, who he described as someone passionate about empowering people.
As Forbes steps into his new role as Dean for the Turks and Caicos Islands at Smith Christian University, he said is poised to make significant contributions to the community through his education and new responsibilities.
Smith Christian University offers a variety of programmes, including Diploma and Bachelor’s in Theology, Pastoral Ministry, Christian Counselling, Christian Education, and Music Ministry. Its master’s programme includes Arts in Theology, Pastoral Ministry and Christian Education. Its Doctoral Programmes include Pastoral Ministry, Theology, Church Administration, Christian Education, Christian Counselling and Missionary Evangelism.
For more information about Smith Christian University visit www.smith.org.
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