Antigua PM honored with Black Excellence Leadership Global Award, Honorary Professor in Humanitarianism

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda said on Wednesday that a faith-based academic institution in the United States, which prides itself in producing leaders who will make a global impact, has honored Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne with two of its most prestigious awards.

The government said Heart Bible International University (HBIU) and Seminary, a historically Black institution based in Hartford, Connecticut, has honored Browne with its Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and as an Honorary Professor in Humanitarianism. 

In a letter advising Prime Minister Browne about the award, Chancellor Professor Dr. Donnett Mcintosh and Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Abraham credited him for his “longstanding dedication to important causes and the advancement of his people.” 

“Your commitment to excellence and the positive impact you have made have set you apart, making you a deserving candidate for this prestigious nomination,” the letter says. 

“Considering all your contributions and humanitarian services to the community and Africa at large, your belief in the transformative power of education and your mission in empowering the next generation with your numerous scholarships, the university would be pleased to honor you with [these] awards,” it adds. 

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda said that presentation of the awards took place during the 2024 Graduation Ceremony at Heart Bible International University campus in Hartford on August 3. 

Glentis Thomas, a counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations in New York, received the award on behalf of Browne, the government said. 

In addressing the graduates at the ceremony, Thomas reflected with pride the achievements his small nation has achieved and encouraged them to “think big”, while keeping God at their side.

“Acquiring tertiary education is undoubtedly the best investment one can make in oneself,” he said. “You have done exactly that, here at HBIU. The high values and moral teachings learned here, provided a sensible framework in which you can deem yourself worthy of success.”