A faith-based academic institution in the United States, which prides itself on producing leaders who will make a global impact, has bestowed Prime Minister Gaston Browne with two prestigious awards.
Heart Bible University and Seminary, a historically Black institution based in Connecticut, honoured Prime Minister Browne with its Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and as an Honorary Professor in Humanitarianism, the government’s Director of Communications Maurice Merchant said in a release.
In a communique advising Prime Minister Browne about the award, Chancellor Prof Dr Donnett Mcintosh and Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Abraham credited PM Browne for what they described as 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 cited.
“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 honour you with [these] awards,” it further continued.
Presentation of the awards took place during the 2024 Graduation Ceremony at Heart Bible University campus in Connecticut on August 3. Receiving the award on behalf of Prime Minister Browne was Counsellor Glentis Thomas, Permanent Mission of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations in New York.
In addressing the graduates at the ceremony, Thomas reflected with pride the achievements the 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. 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,” Thomas told the graduates on behalf of Prime Minister Browne.
