Donna Andrews, Interim Co-Athletic Director at UVI. Photo Credit: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS.
The University of the Virgin Islands has appointed longtime administrator and alumna Donna Andrews as Interim Co-Athletic Director, placing a veteran leader with nearly three decades of institutional experience at the helm of UVI Athletics during a period of transition.
The appointment was announced January 16, with the university citing Andrews’ 28 years of service at UVI, her extensive leadership background, and her long-standing focus on student-centered athletic programming. Andrews has served UVI Athletics in multiple roles, most prominently as Senior Woman Administrator (SWA), the highest-ranking female leadership position in NAIA athletics.
In that role, Andrews has been a consistent advocate for meaningful representation, equity, and effective management across collegiate sports programs. Reflecting on her appointment, she said, “I am truly humbled to be named Interim Co-Athletic Director. This journey has been one of commitment, growth, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the mission of the department and the people who make this place extraordinary.”
Andrews noted that her professional path at UVI has included working alongside five permanently appointed athletic directors and four interim leaders, experiences she said have prepared her for the responsibilities of the interim role. “The journey has fortified me for the road ahead. I remain committed to leading with integrity, collaborating with our campus and community partners, and maintaining a whole-student-centered vision for our student-athletes and athletic program,” she said.
Her appointment follows recent recognition for her broader impact on UVI Athletics. Andrews was inducted into the Paradise Jam Hall of Fame, where she was honored for 24 years of dedicated service to the internationally recognized basketball tournament. She has often been described as the “glue” of UVI Athletics, a reflection of her behind-the-scenes leadership and continuity across programs.
Andrews’ influence also extends beyond administration. In 2008, she founded the UVI Buccaneer Treasures Dance Team, which has become a longstanding fixture of campus life, contributing to student engagement, school spirit, and institutional pride.
A proud UVI graduate, Andrews earned an Associate of Arts in Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Management, and a Master of Public Administration, all from the University of the Virgin Islands. She is also an active member of the St. Thomas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
UVI Athletics competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and is a member of the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), formerly the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference. Entering the 2025–26 season, the Buccaneers will begin their 19th year of athletic competition. As the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the Caribbean, UVI currently sponsors six sports, including men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s and women’s outdoor track and field.
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