Najee Stubbs

Lyford Cay Foundations Undergraduate Award (2019)

“Receiving the Lyford Cay Foundations scholarship was a transformative moment in my life, opening doors to opportunities that seemed beyond reach.”

These are the words of Najee Stubbs, a first-generation college graduate of the University of Arkansas.

Najee’s journey has taken him from the University of The Bahamas, where he graduated in 2018 with an Associate of Science degree in Engineering, to University of Arkansas, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2021. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Arkansas and his educational path does not end here.

“My immediate plans upon completing my master’s degree include pursuing a PhD in mechanical engineering. I believe that when given the opportunity to pursue any endeavour, we should seek to achieve the highest level of accomplishment possible,” Najee explains.

In addition to academics, Najee has found his place within various groups. “Through internships, academic collaborations, and networking, I have been able to travel, learn, and grow in ways I had never imagined possible,” Najee says. He also serves as a Cross-Cultural Mentor, assisting new students adjust to their new surroundings.

When asked to reflect on his younger self at the start of tertiary education, Najee notes that the advice he would give himself at that point in his life would be to trust that everything will work out. As for new scholars, he has this bit of advice, “The person you will become at the end of this academic journey will be shaped by all the successes, challenges, and experiences you encounter along the way. The best thing you can do is embrace the unknown and live in the moment. Understand where you are, why you are there, and execute your plan.”

Najee is rightly positioned as a resource for mentoring and consultation for young Bahamians interested in science and engineering. His skills will also afford him opportunities to offer technical advice to Bahamian organisations on matters of sustainable development and enhancing operational efficiency.

“The Lyford Cay Foundations’ scholarship was not just a funding opportunity; it was a lifeline that validated my efforts and acknowledged my potential to be a valued contributor to The Bahamas,” Najee said, “it was a cornerstone of my personal and professional development.”