This occasional newsletter highlights events and stories about innovation in sustainable development for rural, remote and island regions. We want to change the discourse to demonstrate how islandness can be a driver for innovation.
About Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr.
Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr. is an expert and academic in sustainable aviation, with a particular focus on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Hailing from St. Kitts & Nevis, his passion for aviation was ignited at a young age, inspired by the sight of Seaborne Airlines’ Twin Otter seaplane departing from the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront. Dr. Mc Call Jr earned a Bachelor of Science in Management (Tourism & Hospitality), followed by a Master of Science in Air Transport Management with distinction. He advanced his academic credentials by obtaining a PhD in Air Transport Management, with a focus on developing sustainable aviation strategies for the Caribbean and other SIDS. Currently, he serves as a lecturer in Aviation & Tourism Management and Course Leader for the aviation programmes at Teesside University in the United Kingdom. In this role, he has been instrumental in shaping strategic educational initiatives and preparing future leaders in the aviation sector, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Beyond academia, Dr. Mc Call Jr has a strong foundation in leadership and advocacy. He has held prominent positions, including Dean of the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, CARICOM Youth Ambassador for St. Kitts & Nevis, where he honed his negotiation and leadership skills, earning recognition from the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis. Additionally, he served as a member of the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA), where he gained valuable experience in governance, public policy, and representing the voices of young people in the region. Dr. Mc Call Jr is a sought-after speaker and has presented at international conferences across Europe, the Caribbean, and the USA, addressing topics such as sustainable aviation development, the intersection of transportation and tourism, and strategies for environmental and economic resilience. With a unique blend of academic expertise, practical experience, and a personal connection to the Caribbean, Dr. Mc Call Jr is committed to advancing sustainability within the aviation industry and promoting sustainable development in transportation, particularly for island nations.