The first Total you Seminar for Semester 1, 2022-2023 entitled, “Joy to the World: The Power of a FST Degree” was hosted on September 29, 2022. The featured guest was Dr. Joy Spence (FST Alum, Department of Chemistry), the world’s first female master blender and creator of some of the world’s finest rums including Appleton Estate 8-Year-Old Reserve and Appleton Estate Rare Blend (12 Year Old). The session was chaired by two members of the FST Guild Committee, Ms. Akira Campbell (Chemistry Rep.) and Ms. Catherine Lloyd (Biochemistry Rep). Akira and Catherine benefitted from preparation drills with Dr. Marvadeen Singh-Wilmot (Associate Dean, Student Experience) who exposed them to strategies in public speaking. Approximately 120 students attended the seminar.

Dr. Spence was surprised with a citation read by Akira Campbell and a salute in song by Mr. Orane Green, FST “Rising Star.” She was presented with an award as “FST ICON 2022.” The session also featured a mini-workshop entitled “The Art of Sensory Evaluation” with Dr. Spence. This was hosted on the FST spine and students got an opportunity to work even more closely with Dr. Spence while building sensory skills and getting a window into her world of work. The seminar included a raffle, and twelve (12) students were selected for a tour of the Appleton Estate on October 15, 2022 sponsored by Dr. Spence. The 12 students were Rochele Webster, Rhay Lee Waldron, Aaliyah Reid, Alexia Brooks Brittoney McKenzie, Kimoy Grant, Mpule Clarke, Javaughn Anderson Gabrielle Johnson, Jeneil Haynes, Akira Campbell, Catherine Lloyd.

Photo caption: Dr. Joy Spence (adorned in blue, white and black), FST Alum and the world's first female master blander flanked by students in the Faculty of Science and Technology at a Total You Seminar

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