The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) at The University of the West Indies (The UWI) Mona has long been defined by the calibre and impact of its alumni, whose contributions continue to shape scholarship, policy, and development across the Caribbean and beyond. This tradition of excellence is exemplified in the achievements of Dr. Kevon Rhiney, an alumnus of The UWI, Mona, who has been recognised with the prestigious Pelican Award by the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI).

Dr. Rhiney received the award at the 29th Annual “The Legacy Continues” Awards Gala, held in New York City on April 17, 2026. The Pelican Award is one of the highest honours conferred by the AFUWI, recognising exceptional alumni whose scholarship, leadership, and service reflect the enduring mission and global impact of The UWI.

An exemplary graduate of The UWI, Mona, Dr. Rhiney completed both his Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in the Department of Geography and Geology in the FST. His doctoral research, titled “Tourism-agriculture linkages in Jamaica: Prospects and challenges,” was supervised by the late Professor David Barker and contributed valuable insights into sustainable development pathways within the Caribbean.

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Rhiney joined The UWI as a Lecturer, serving from 2010 to 2016. During his tenure, he made significant contributions to teaching and research, particularly in the areas of climate change, livelihoods, and sustainable development in the Caribbean. He also demonstrated strong professional leadership, serving as both Council Member and President of the Jamaican Geographical Society.

In 2016, Dr. Rhiney joined Rutgers University–New Brunswick as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography. His academic career has continued to flourish internationally, culminating in his promotion to Associate Professor in 2022. His research focuses on global environmental change, political ecology, and climate justice, with a strong emphasis on issues affecting small island developing states.

Dr. Rhiney’s work has earned wide recognition, including the Principal’s Research Day Award and the Prime Minister’s National Youth Award for Excellence. Further underscoring his global influence, he was selected by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) as a Lead Author for its Seventh Assessment Report (AR7).

The Pelican Award places Dr. Rhiney among an esteemed group of UWI alumni whose contributions continue to shape communities and advance knowledge worldwide. His achievements highlights not only personal excellence but also the transformative power of a UWI education.

The Faculty of Science and Technology and the Department of Geography and Geology extend their congratulations to Dr. Rhiney on this well-deserved honour and celebrate his continued impact on academia and society at large.

Photo caption: The Most Honourable Andrew Holness (L) and Dr Kevon Rhiney (R).