The UWI honoured 13 Caribbean personalities with honorary degrees during its 2024 graduation ceremonies.

Spanning five campuses and a kaleidoscope of disciplines, the roll call read like a who’s who of regional achievement: from the thundering pace of Grenadian Olympian Kirani James to the timeless swing of Antiguan cricket legend Sir Curtly Ambrose. Barbadian cultural icon Elombe Mottley, pioneering Jamaican music maestro Monte Blake, and human rights champion Ambassador Dr W. Aubrey Webson were among the luminaries celebrated.

The ceremonies, held from October 12 to November 9, shone a spotlight on trailblazers in medicine, education, sport, science, business, and the arts. Figures like Dame Susan Dougan, the Governor General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Dr Patricia Rodney, Guyanese medical and human rights advocate, underscored the region’s rich tapestry of excellence and social impact.

In a celebration that fused tradition with inspiration, The UWI’s honorary degrees served as a beacon— illuminating the Caribbean’s enduring legacy and the promise of its future.

2025 Honorary Graduates

Sir Curtly Elconn Lynwall Ambrose for contributions to Cricket – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

His Excellency Ambassador Dr W. Aubrey Webson for his work in Human Rights Advocacy – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Dame Susan Dilys Dougan for her public service and work in Education – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Sir Trevor Hassell for his contribution to Medicine – Doctor of Science (DSc)

The Most Honourable Elton Deighton Elombe Mottley for his contribution to the development of Culture and the Arts – Doctor of Letters (DLitt)

Mr Ralph Taylor for his work in the Tourism sector – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Dr Maniram Ragbir for his work as a Plastic/ Reconstructive Surgeon –Doctor of Science (DSc)

Dr Patricia Rodney for her work as a Medical Practitioner and Human Rights Defender – Doctor of Science (DSc)

Mr Donald Anderson, CD for his work as an Entrepreneur/Market Researcher/Sport Administrator – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Mr Monte Blake for his pioneering work in music – Doctor of Letters (DLitt)

Mr Courtney Campbell for his work as an Entrepreneur/Philanthropist –Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Dr Conrad Douglas, CD for his contribution to the development of the Bauxite Industry – Doctor of Laws (LLD)

Mr Kirani James of Grenada for excellence in Athletics – Doctor of Laws (LLD)