ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Committee on Rules and Judiciary, chaired by Senator Carla J. Joseph, convened at the Capitol Building and voted favorably on several items, including the confirmation of three gubernatorial nominees: The Honorable Carolyn Hermon-Percell to the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Board of Trustees, Mr. Winston M. A. Williams, Jr. to the Virgin Islands Board of Contractors, Trades, and Crafts, and The Honorable Kirk Callwood, Sr. to the Banking Board of the United States Virgin Islands. Lawmakers also advanced legislation related to opioid prescription regulations. All approved items will proceed to the Full Body for further consideration. 

Senator Joseph praised Nominee Hermon-Percell’s appointment, noting her authenticity and service as a role model for young women, especially as a UVI alumna. Senator Angel L. Bolques, Jr. inquired about her motivation for joining the UVI Board of Trustees. Hermon-Percell responded by affirming UVI’s critical role in socioeconomic mobility and professional development across the Territory.

During the meeting, Nominee Hermon-Percell highlighted her academic and professional background, including degrees from Georgetown University, Case Western Reserve University School of Law, and UVI. She shared her extensive legal experience in both public and private sectors, as well as her ongoing engagement with the university community. Acknowledging current challenges such as enrollment declines and federal funding reductions, she pledged to support UVI’s strategic direction through her legal expertise and commitment to public service.

Nominee Winston M. A. Williams, Jr. outlined a strategic vision for his role on the Virgin Islands Board of Contractors, Trades, and Crafts, emphasizing the need for preparation as the Territory expects $20 billion in construction activity over the next decade. His short-term goals include conducting a SWOT analysis, reviewing fee and fine structures, and partnering with agencies to expand the contractor base. Long-term, Williams plans to implement strategies from the analysis, create a contractor performance scorecard, and promote access to educational resources for licensing readiness.

Nominee Kirk Callwood, Sr., nominated to the Banking Board for the St. Thomas–St. John District, committed to strengthening financial oversight and consumer protection. His goals include enhancing examination practices, streamlining licensing, and improving transparency. Long-term, Callwood supports inclusive financial innovation, increased capital access for small businesses, and protections for vulnerable populations.   through education and compliance enforcement.

Lastly, the committee approved: Bill No. 36-0021– An act amending Title 19 of the Virgin Islands Code to require healthcare practitioners to discuss critical information when prescribing opioids. The bill is sponsored by Senator Marvin A. Blyden and co-sponsored by Senators Ray Fonseca and Kurt A. Vialet.

Senators in attendance included Carla J. Joseph, Milton E. Potter, Alma Francis Heyliger, Angel Bolques, Jr., Clifford A. Joseph, Sr., Avery L. Lewis and Kenneth L. Gittens.

The Division of Public Affairs remains committed to keeping the public informed on legislative proceedings and health-related developments. For more information, visit legvi.org.

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For Immediate Release                                            Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

May 08, 2025                                                             Email: aharrigan@legvi.org