Carlene Henry-Morton Receives Inaugural LLL Distinguished Alumni Award

Carlene Henry-Morton’s distinguished career in education and public service culminated in a momentous occasion on February 21, 2025, when she received the inaugural LLL Distinguished Alumni Award. This prestigious accolade, bestowed by the Department of Language, Linguistics, and Literature (LLL) at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, recognizes outstanding alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to service. The timing of the award, coinciding with International Mother Language Day, added further significance to the event, highlighting the importance of language and its role in shaping individuals and societies. Mrs. Henry-Morton’s recognition for her contributions to Literature in English solidified her place as a true luminary in her field.

The LLL Legacies and Luminaries Careers Day and Awards Ceremony provided a fitting backdrop for celebrating Mrs. Henry-Morton’s remarkable achievements. Her journey began at UWI, followed by further studies at the University of Leeds in England. Armed with a robust educational foundation, she embarked on a career spanning over three decades, dedicated to transforming lives through the power of education. As Principal of the Basseterre High School in St. Kitts, she became a driving force for academic excellence and student empowerment. Her unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning left an enduring impact on generations of students, shaping their futures and contributing to the intellectual growth of the nation.

Beyond her contributions to education, Mrs. Henry-Morton’s dedication to public service extended to the realm of tourism. During her seven-year tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, she spearheaded innovative initiatives that propelled St. Kitts onto the global stage. Her visionary leadership focused on sustainable tourism development, ensuring the preservation of the island’s rich cultural heritage while promoting its natural beauty and unique attractions. Through her strategic efforts, St. Kitts gained international recognition as a premier travel destination, attracting visitors from around the world and boosting the island’s economy.

The inaugural LLL Distinguished Alumni Award acknowledged not only Mrs. Henry-Morton but also two other esteemed figures: Ms. Donna Forde, recognized for her contributions to Modern Languages, and Mr. Kerry Belgrave, honored for his work in Linguistics. This diverse cohort of awardees reflects the breadth and depth of the LLL department’s impact and the multifaceted nature of language studies. The selection of these three individuals underscores the importance of recognizing excellence across different linguistic disciplines and celebrating the diverse ways in which language shapes our world.

Mrs. Henry-Morton’s story is one of unwavering dedication, passion, and a deep commitment to serving her community and nation. Her relentless pursuit of excellence in both education and public service has earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues, students, and the wider community. The LLL Distinguished Alumni Award serves as a testament to her enduring legacy and the transformative impact she has had on countless lives. Her achievements stand as an inspiration to aspiring educators, public servants, and anyone striving to make a positive difference in the world.

This award is not merely a retrospective acknowledgment of past accomplishments; it is a recognition of Mrs. Henry-Morton’s continuing influence and her ongoing contributions to national development. Her remarkable journey, marked by dedication, vision, and a commitment to excellence, serves as a shining example of the power of education and public service to shape a brighter future. The LLL Distinguished Alumni Award is a fitting tribute to a true national treasure, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.