The Faculty of Social Sciences proudly congratulates Jevon Henry on being awarded the prestigious 2024 UWI/Guardian Life Award! This remarkable achievement highlights Jevon's unwavering dedication to innovative educational methods and socio-economic development in Jamaica. We celebrate his commitment to empowering others through education, and we are excited to see how he will continue to inspire future economists. We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Nekeisha Spencer, who has been recognized as a runner-up for this esteemed award. Her contributions to the field of economics, particularly in environmental and climate economics, are commendable, and we are proud to have such a distinguished scholar within our faculty.

Henry is a prominent economist and academic known for his impactful research on socio-economic development in Jamaica, culminating in his receipt of this year’s UWI/Guardian Life Award. Currently an PhD candidate at the University of the West Indies (UWI) and a lecturer, he focuses on financial literacy and access to finance as essential tools for community empowerment. His thesis, supervised by Dr. Jonathan Lashley and Dr Kevin Williams, explores the relationship between finance and socio-economic growth. Through his contributions to education and community initiatives, Henry aims to inspire future economists and enhance economic conditions in Jamaica.

Henry's teaching philosophy centres on creating an inclusive classroom where all students feel valued and empowered. He believes in a student-centred approach that promotes engagement and critical thinking, utilizing diverse teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles. By fostering strong relationships and open communication, he encourages collaboration and mutual respect among his students. Committed to continuous growth, Henry actively seeks feedback and professional development to enhance his practices, inspiring a love for lifelong learning. Through his dedication to inclusive education, he demonstrates the profound impact a passionate educator can have in shaping young minds.

Dr. Nekeisha Spencer is a Senior Lecturer in Economics at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, where she excels in both teaching and research. Her innovative approach to teaching and dedication to student success have earned her multiple teaching awards, including a runner-up position for the Beryl Allen Teaching Award for Innovative Strategies and, more recently, a runner-up for the UWI Guardian Life Premium Teaching Award. Beyond the classroom, she is an accomplished researcher in environmental and climate economics. Her work on the impacts of weather and climate in the Caribbean has earned her the prestigious UWI Principal’s Research Award for Most Outstanding Researcher for two academic years.

Together, Jevon Henry and Dr. Nekeisha Spencer exemplify excellence within the Faculty of Social Sciences, inspiring both their students and colleagues through their unwavering commitment to education and research. The Faculty of Social Sciences takes great pride in honouring the outstanding achievements of Jevon Henry and Dr. Nekeisha Spencer. Jevon's recognition as the 2024 UWI/Guardian Life Award winner highlights his commitment to enhancing financial literacy and promoting socio-economic development in Jamaica. In parallel, Dr. Spencer's impressive work as a runner-up showcases her innovative teaching methods and influential research in environmental economics. Their accomplishments not only elevate the Faculty's reputation but also serve as an inspiration for current and future students to strive for excellence in their academic and professional journeys. As they continue to make meaningful contributions to their fields, we eagerly anticipate the positive impact they will have on society and the next generation of economists.