VICE-CHANCELLOR’S REPORT TO COUNCIL 2022—2023
HONOURS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
SIR SAMUEL WEYMOUTH TAPLEY SEATON
SIR LLOYD ERSKINE SANDIFORD
The UWI extended sympathy to the nation of St. Kitts and Nevis on the passing of its distinguished statesman, former Governor General, Sir Samuel Weymouth Tapley Seaton. An alumnus and friend of the University, Sir Tapley was among the most vibrant and visible patrons of The UWI’s annual Global Giving programme. In 2019, the University conferred upon him an Honorary LLD in tribute of his excellent record of public and private sector service. In expressing condolences on behalf of his beloved alma mater, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles said, “A true Caribbean pioneer in the legal fraternity, Sir Tapley started early, adding value with relentless determination. He stayed the course with unquestionable excellence; and finished with finesse. Indeed, he was the kind of Caribbean man on whose efforts nations are built. Thank you, Sir Tapley.”
Upon the passing of Caribbean political stalwart Sir Lloyd Erskine Sandiford in July 2023, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles reflected on the unhurried and often unshakable nature of Sir Lloyd’s approach to divisiveness. The core of his politics was grounded in ‘love of country’ and he insisted upon the imperative of publicly funded education for the masses. This was a principle of his social democracy and the vehicle on which his believed the nation would travel to economic prosperity and social stability. Sir Lloyd was an intellectual product of the ideological vision of The UWI, committed to national independence and dignified nation building. Among other senior positions, he served as Prime Minister of Barbados and later as ambassador to China. The UWI community celebrated him for living a life selflessly in the service of his people.
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