Originally published on the official St. Stanislaus College Facebook page on November 1, 2026, by the Journalism Club as part of its 160th Anniversary Interview Series. View the original post.
By Jianna Hopkinson | Student Writer
During her recent return to St. Stanislaus College, where she was invited to be featured in the College's 160th Anniversary series, Ms. Trecia David found herself transported back to the place where her journey first began. As she sat on the familiar bridge, watching students and teachers interact, memories of her own schooldays resurfaced, prompting reflection on the institution that had helped shape not only her academic foundation but also the person she would become.
Today, Ms. David serves as Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of Guyana's Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board, a national regulatory authority whose work is centred on safeguarding human health and the environment. From a student discovering her potential within the College's walls to a leader contributing to the development of chemical management in Guyana, her journey reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, the courage to embrace unexpected opportunities and a desire to make a meaningful difference in society.
As St. Stanislaus College commemorates 160 years of education, Ms. David's story highlights the lasting influence of the institution on its former students. Her reflections offer insight into the role of education, mentorship and personal determination in shaping one's future. From the lessons she carries from her schooldays to the responsibilities she embraces in her professional life, her journey is a testament to the opportunities that can emerge from a strong foundation and the importance of using those opportunities to make a meaningful contribution to society.
Originally from Hague, West Coast Demerara, Ms. David began her secondary education at St. Stanislaus College in 1991. Her transition from primary to secondary school was not an entirely smooth one. She recalled struggling academically during her first year, barely managing to pass as she adjusted to the greater demands of her new learning environment. That early experience, however, became an important turning point. She quickly recognised that secondary school would require a different level of commitment and discipline, and gradually developed the determination to improve.
Her experience at the College soon became one she remembers with great fondness. She describes the teachers as among the best she has encountered, emphasising that their influence extended far beyond the classroom. They not only developed students academically but also helped shape their character, personalities and aspirations.
Even during her recent visit, familiar surroundings brought back fond memories. Sitting on the bridge, she recalled Miss Meratins and her familiar reminders to students about the bridge restrictions. Seeing that the tradition had continued over the years brought a smile to her face.
Among the educators who left a lasting impression were Mr. J. Dolphin, whom she fondly remembered as one of their favourite teachers, Sir Parris, whose patience and encouragement stood out exceptionally, and Mr. Rudolph Deoraj who completely changed her perspective of mathematics.
Ms. David's sixth form years, when she returned to the College to pursue A-Level studies after completing CXC, remain among her most memorable experiences.
Mr. Deoraj, who taught Applied and Pure Mathematics, was known for his strict approach and demanding teaching methods. Initially, Ms. David found his sternness difficult to tolerate. His expectations challenged students to push beyond what they believed they were capable of achieving. Over time, however, she began to understand and appreciate his approach.
By the time she completed her A-Levels, Mr. Deoraj had become her favourite teacher, a title he continues to hold to this day. Under his guidance, her interest in mathematics developed into such a strong passion that she considered pursuing a degree in the subject. Mr. Deoraj, however, encouraged her to think beyond that immediate ambition, believing she had the potential to explore greater academic opportunities.
Years later, during one of their encounters outside the College, he expressed how proud he was of the person she had become.
“I've seen you. I've seen what you've become and I want you to know that I'm proud of you,” he told her.
For Ms. David, hearing those words from someone who had played such an important role in her development was particularly meaningful. It served as a reminder of the lasting influence teachers can have on their students, sometimes long after they have left the classroom.
Beyond academics, her school experience was filled with friendships, extracurricular activities and many learning opportunities. She participated in impromptu activities and various sporting events, including shot put, javelin and discus. Although she was initially uncertain about her ability to participate in sports, encouragement from the individuals around her helped her become more confident and feel included. Due to that push, she ended up participating, loved the experience, and went on to participate in sports every year following.
She also maintains friendships with many of her former classmates, believing that the relationships developed during secondary school can be instrumental in shaping one's future. For her, finding friends who shared her interests, encouraged her ambitions and supported her growth was an important part of her journey.
Interestingly, Ms. David's eventual career was not her original ambition. Initially, she envisioned herself pursuing business. However, when the time came to select her academic stream, her father encouraged her to consider science, recognising her abilities and potential in the subject area.
Although she had never particularly enjoyed chemistry, she was drawn to biology and physics. She eventually embraced the sciences and discovered an interest that would guide her professional journey.
After completing her A-Level studies, she pursued biology as her major and chemistry as her minor at university. Upon graduating, her first professional opportunity was as a chemist.
Despite her earlier reservations about chemistry, she found herself enjoying the practical aspects of the subject, particularly working in the laboratory. The experience helped establish her career in science, a decision she says she has never regretted.
Her professional journey eventually led her to the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board, where she began working as an inspector. The position provided opportunities to travel throughout Guyana, conduct fieldwork and interact with stakeholders from different communities and industries.
It was through these experiences that she developed an even deeper understanding of the impact chemicals could have on human health and the environment. Recognising the importance of chemical management and regulation, she discovered that this was where her passion truly lay.
For Ms. David, the work was about contributing to meaningful change in society: Something she always knew she wanted to be involved in. Understanding the risks associated with chemicals and the importance of protecting communities reinforced her commitment to the sector.
Her transition into management was not something she initially anticipated. During her time working in the sector, the encouragement of former Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Robert M. Persaud, played a significant role in changing her perspective.
He recognised her potential and encouraged her to pursue greater responsibilities, telling her, “I believe there's more you can do.”
Eventually, she received news of her promotion into management. Although the opportunity was exciting, it was also intimidating. At just 25 years old, she found herself taking on responsibilities that required a different level of confidence and leadership she would've never imagined. She turned to her father for reassurance, and his belief in her abilities became an important source of encouragement. Alongside the guidance of supportive family, colleagues and individuals within the Ministry, she gradually grew into her new role.
Her academic development continued alongside her professional responsibilities. She pursued a Bachelor's degree in Business Management, followed by a Master of Business Administration, which helped her better understand the managerial skills required to lead an organisation effectively. She later completed a Master of Science in Health, Safety and Risk.
Rather than viewing education as something that ends with a degree, Ms. David considers continuous learning essential to professional growth. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. focusing on pesticide residue monitoring in Guyana.
Her commitment to education has also influenced her family life. As a mother of two, she considers her children among her greatest motivations. She wanted to pursue her doctoral studies while they were also engaged in their own education, allowing her to encourage them through example and remain involved in their academic development.
While her professional achievements are significant, Ms. David is quick to acknowledge that her journey has never been solely about individual success.
Today, she considers the overall success of the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board one of her greatest professional accomplishments. Rather than attributing that success to herself alone, she gives considerable credit to the people working alongside her.
She describes her team as passionate, driven and consistently willing to rise to challenges. For her, witnessing the collective commitment of individuals working towards a shared purpose is one of the most fulfilling aspects of leadership.
Her responsibilities have also provided opportunities to represent Guyana internationally. Through engagements with United Nations agencies involved in chemical management and participation in Conferences of the Parties, she has gained valuable experience on the international stage.
One particularly memorable achievement was the opportunity to chair an international meeting as a representative of Guyana. From receiving the necessary training to eventually presiding over the meeting, the experience was monumental for her. Having previously had limited exposure to bilateral meetings, she regarded the opportunity as both a professional milestone and a moment of national pride.
Representing Guyana, she explained, was the most rewarding part of the experience.
Yet, among the lessons she has gathered throughout her career, one stands out: “Choose your soldiers wisely.”
Having observed organisations that struggle to achieve their objectives, she has come to appreciate the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who share the same passion, commitment and determination. To her, a strong team is fundamental to achieving meaningful and sustainable progress.
Her approach to life and work is reflected in a simple philosophy: “Work hard, play later. Work hard, play harder.”
Outside her professional responsibilities, Ms. David serves as an administrative pastor at her church, where she has been singing since the age of 13. Her faith, family and commitment to education remain important parts of her identity, complementing the dedication she brings to her career.
Despite the many achievements and experiences that have shaped her life since graduation, Ms. David maintains a strong connection to the institution that helped lay her foundation.
“Saints is in my blood,” she declares.
She believes that the College contributed significantly to her educational and professional development, nurturing the competitiveness, discipline and determination that would later become defining characteristics of her academic journey. Her achievements include graduating at the top of her class at the University of the West Indies during her master's studies, an accomplishment that reflects the academic drive she traces back to her secondary school years.
Reflecting on the College's development over the years, she acknowledges the changes that have taken place, including the introduction of the Wall of Fame, the structural improvements and adjustments to the school uniform. Nevertheless, she believes that its fundamental purpose remains intact: producing students who are ambitious, capable of dreaming and prepared to pursue meaningful futures.
She also encourages current students to learn about the achievements of former students. Understanding the journeys of those who once occupied the same classrooms, walked the same corridors and sat on the same bridge can provide inspiration and demonstrate what is possible beyond secondary school.
She believes there is also value in exposing students to the various industries contributing to Guyana's development. During a past visit, the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board established an awareness corner at the College to introduce students to pesticide safety and the importance of responsible chemical management. She hopes that opportunities such as these will help make students more aware of the country's evolving industries and developmental priorities.
For her, education should extend beyond textbooks and examinations. It should equip young people with an understanding of the world around them and the opportunities available to them.
Perhaps the most meaningful part of Ms. David's return to the College was the opportunity to reflect on the influence she could now have on the next generation.
Remembering the teachers who encouraged her, the friends who supported her and the experiences that shaped her character, she emphasises the importance of extending that same encouragement to others.
Her advice is simple: be kind, be gentle, and take every opportunity to build someone up. A few words of encouragement, she believes, can help mould a young mind and influence the direction of someone's life.
As St. Stanislaus College celebrates 160 years of education, Ms. David hopes that it will continue to provide future generations with the same foundation it gave her: the confidence to dream, the determination to achieve and the desire to contribute meaningfully to society.
She urges current students not to take their secondary school years lightly, reminding them that the experiences, lessons and relationships developed during this period can shape everything that follows.
