HBCU awards Antigua & Barbuda PM with Black Excellence Leadership Global Award

The government of Antigua & Barbuda announced that Prime Minister Gaston Browne has been recognized by a US-based faith-driven academic institution known for shaping global leaders.

Heart Bible International University (HBIU) and Seminary, a historically Black institution in Hartford, Connecticut, honored Browne with two prestigious distinctions: the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and an Honorary Professorship in Humanitarianism.

In a formal letter notifying Prime Minister Browne, HBIU’s Chancellor, Professor Donnett McIntosh, and Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter Abraham, praised his “dedication to significant causes and his efforts toward the advancement of his people.”

“Your unwavering commitment to excellence and the positive impact you have made distinguish you as a worthy recipient of this esteemed recognition,” the letter stated.

The university highlighted Browne’s contributions to humanitarian causes, his focus on education, and his mission to empower future generations through scholarships as key reasons for honoring him with the awards.

The awards were presented during HBIU’s 2024 Graduation Ceremony, held on August 3 at the university’s Hartford campus. Glentis Thomas, a counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Antigua & Barbuda to the United Nations in New York, accepted the awards on Browne’s behalf.

In his address to the graduates, Thomas expressed pride in Antigua & Barbuda’s accomplishments and urged them to “dream big” while keeping faith at the center of their lives.

“Pursuing higher education is one of the best investments you can make in yourself,” Thomas said. “You have achieved this here at HBIU. The values and moral teachings you’ve gained will provide a strong foundation for your future success.”