Apr.20,1940

Sociologist who worked to collect the oral histories and the stories of elders in rural communities of Jamaica. Through this project she provided access to, and preserved for future generations the previously undocumented experiences of the ordinary West Indian in his or her own words. Brodber pioneered the academic acceptance of oral tradition as a source of information for the Caribbean researcher. She has also authored important studies, notably "Rural-Urban Migration and the Jamaican Child" (1986).

Feb. 24, 1947

A political scientist who has published extensively on Marcus Garvey’s activities in Jamaica and the Caribbean region. He has also authored research about the Caribbean activist-intellectual, Walter Rodney. Professor Lewis has served as member of the Council of the Institute of Jamaica and as Chairman of the African-Caribbean Institute of Jamaica and Jamaica Memory Bank.

Nov. 12, 1918

Demographer who is recognized for his contribution to the development of censuses in the West Indies.The 1970 census which was conducted in 15 Caribbean countries was co-ordinated by Professor Roberts. He also supervised the processing of census data for all of the countries and planned and directed the publication of the census volumes. His students went on to staff the statistical offices across the region and to establish a culture of population study.

Feb. 4, 1933-

Political Scientist who was the first alumnus of the UWI to become vice chancellor. Professor Nettleford was the epitome of a true statesman and has shaped the cultural and intellectual landscape of Jamaica as well as the wider Caribbean as a writer, dancer and trade unionist.In his work, he has sought to emphasize the importance of cultural identity and has done much to persuade Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean of the central place that culture ought to take.

Dec 10,1944

Political scientist and a consultant to the Centre for Leadership and Governance at the University of the West Indies. He is noted for a landmark study of the process of decolonization in Jamaica between the 1930s and 1960s, published as The Politics of Constitutional Decolonization (1972). Professor Munroe was instrumental in the founding of the University and Allied Workers' Union in 1971. This trade union initially represented janitorial and service staff at the UWI, and has expanded its representation to workers from various sectors.

 Jan. 7, 1940-

Sociologist and authority on Rastafari whose work has impacted the lives of persons outside the confines of the University. Professor Chevannes served organisations such as Fathers' Incorporated, Partners for Peace, Peace Management Initiative, the National Commission on Ganja, the Justice System Reform Task Force, and the Caribbean Community Commission on Youth Development. Professor Chevannes was also a leading activist for peace in Jamaica as he headed the Violence Prevention Alliance which launched a safe community campaign in 2006.

Jun. 3, 1940-

Political sociologist who pioneered the systematic study of voting behaviour in Jamaica. Professor Carl Stone brought public opinion polling to the Jamaican political process and using empirical evidence developed a body of ideas about the Jamaican electorate. He was famous for his election predictions, predicting in terms of the victorious party the outcomes of all national elections held in Jamaica between 1976 and 1990.

May 1, 1961-

Medical Researcher who has done pioneering work in the early childhood development field. While her earlier research was primarily in children’s nutrition, development and behaviour in developing countries, she has spent over 15 years focusing on the development of aggression and violence in children and the effects of violence on children.

Oct. 16, 1956-

Engineer who has established himself as a distinguished educator, diplomat and able administrator. Professor Shirley was responsible for the implementation of the UWI’s 2007-2012 Strategic Plan. This included developments such as a Western Jamaica Campus; expansion in the Medical and Law faculties; and other initiatives which have repositioned the university. Professor Shirley also served as a Professor of Operations Management and Executive Director of the Mona School of Business prior to becoming principal for the Mona Campus.

Apr. 12, 1953-

Political scientist whose work is centered on the theory of revolution, comparative Central American and Caribbean politics; Caribbean thinkers and political thought as well as hegemony, democracy and the state in theory and practice. The impact of Professor Meek’s work extends through several disciplines – political science, history, political economy, sociology, Africana studies, Caribbean studies and Latin American studies. Over the years, he has developed an international reputation in these fields, evidenced by the numerous invitations that he receives to present his work at institutions in North America and the United Kingdom.