USM Expands Ties in Netherlands with Saxion Partnership
September 19, 2025
USM President Dr. Carmona met with Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Apeldoorn and reconnected with alumnus Hamsley Barthelemy, now studying Hospitality Management there. The visit marks the beginning of new opportunities for USM graduates to pursue higher-level degrees in the Netherlands.
USM continues to strengthen its global network as President Dr. Antonio Carmona Báez traveled to the Netherlands to meet with partnering universities and explore new opportunities for USM graduates.
One highlight of the visit was Dr. Carmona’s stop at Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Apeldoorn Campus, where he reconnected with USM alumnus Hamsley Barthelemy. Barthelemy, a recent USM graduate and former Student Government Association leader, is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management, which he is expected to complete in 2028.
Saxion University has earned recognition for achieving the highest Caribbean student success rate in the Netherlands, making it a natural partner for USM. To build on this strength, USM will join forces with Saxion to provide graduates with opportunities for seamless transitions into advanced programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management, International Business, Finance and Marketing, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
During their meeting, Dr. Carmona presented Barthelemy with a token of recognition on behalf of USM, symbolizing the pride the university holds for its alumni who continue to excel abroad.
“USM alumni represent our institution’s values wherever they go,” Dr. Carmona remarked. “Seeing them thrive in new environments inspires our current students and strengthens our resolve to create pathways for success both at home and abroad.”
Also on his visit to the Netherlands, President Carmona met with representatives of the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) to discuss institutional accreditation in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the CAFY program, and the future of USM. Furthermore, Dr. Carmona held meetings with the leadership of The Hague University of Applied Sciences to develop a pathway for USM graduates interested in continuing their studies in Business and Public Administration.
Finally, USM is seeking stronger partnerships with Dutch universities to continue research on climate challenges, especially as the Island(er)s at the Helm program comes to an end.
This visit marks an important step in expanding academic mobility and research opportunities for USM students, reaffirming the university’s role as a gateway to regional and international higher education pathways.
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One highlight of the visit was Dr. Carmona’s stop at Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Apeldoorn Campus, where he reconnected with USM alumnus Hamsley Barthelemy. Barthelemy, a recent USM graduate and former Student Government Association leader, is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management, which he is expected to complete in 2028.
Saxion University has earned recognition for achieving the highest Caribbean student success rate in the Netherlands, making it a natural partner for USM. To build on this strength, USM will join forces with Saxion to provide graduates with opportunities for seamless transitions into advanced programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management, International Business, Finance and Marketing, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
During their meeting, Dr. Carmona presented Barthelemy with a token of recognition on behalf of USM, symbolizing the pride the university holds for its alumni who continue to excel abroad.
“USM alumni represent our institution’s values wherever they go,” Dr. Carmona remarked. “Seeing them thrive in new environments inspires our current students and strengthens our resolve to create pathways for success both at home and abroad.”
Also on his visit to the Netherlands, President Carmona met with representatives of the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) to discuss institutional accreditation in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the CAFY program, and the future of USM. Furthermore, Dr. Carmona held meetings with the leadership of The Hague University of Applied Sciences to develop a pathway for USM graduates interested in continuing their studies in Business and Public Administration.
Finally, USM is seeking stronger partnerships with Dutch universities to continue research on climate challenges, especially as the Island(er)s at the Helm program comes to an end.
This visit marks an important step in expanding academic mobility and research opportunities for USM students, reaffirming the university’s role as a gateway to regional and international higher education pathways.
Latest News →
