The University of Fondwa recently celebrated its graduation ceremony, a milestone that coincided with the universitys birthday. Founded in 2004 with a vision to provide high-quality, transformative higher education in rural Haiti, the university marked another year of academic achievement and community impact. This year, 42 students graduated across three critical fields: Veterinary Medicine, Agronomy, and Business Management.
Business Management Graduates
University President Ludsonde Lafontant addressed the graduates, encouraging them to never forget their roots. He reminded students that their education is not only a personal achievement but also a tool to strengthen their communities and the country at large.
“You carry with you the knowledge and skills to make a difference, and your success is a reflection of the people and place that shaped you,” President Lafontant said.
uFondwa USA Board Vice President also spoke at the ceremony, sharing a message about leadership and purpose. She reminded graduates that servant leadership is rarely glamorous, but its impact is profound. And Board President, Myron F. "Buddy" Steves reminded students to bring joy into all they do.
UNIF President, Ludsonde Lafontant
Many graduates at the University of Fondwa follow a path that immediately contributes to rural development. Most begin their careers by starting their own microbusinesses, particularly in agriculture, where they apply the skills theyve learned in agronomy and business management to support local food systems and create economic opportunities. These ventures not only provide livelihoods for the graduates but also strengthen the communities that have supported their journey.
While the students have completed their coursework, as is customary in Haiti, their academic journey is not yet entirely finished. They will now undertake a thesis or capstone project, similar in rigor to a Master’s thesis in the United States. These projects allow graduates to apply their learning to real-world challenges, producing research and solutions that can benefit both their profession and the broader community.
The graduation ceremony was a celebration not just of academic achievement, but also of purpose, perseverance, and service. For the University of Fondwa, it was a reminder that its missionpreparing students to be skilled, thoughtful, and community-minded leaders—is thriving. As the graduates step into the next chapter of their lives, they do so with knowledge, confidence, and a commitment to creating positive change in rural Haiti and beyond.
Agronomy Graduates
Veterinary Medicine Graduates
