The University of the West Indies has established the Rex Nettleford Foundation in memory of this outstanding Caribbean icon who passed away in early February. The Foundation will support scholars and programmes that promote the strengthening of West Indian society in the areas of social and cultural development through research, community services and intellectual excellence, to produce young leaders who grasp the importance of public service based on integrity, protection for the weak, and the energy to use their talents for the betterment of humankind.

Sir Shridath Ramphal, Chancellor Emeritus of the University of the West Indies, has been named Chairman of the Foundation. Sir Shridath, who was Chancellor during Professor Nettleford’s term of office as Vice Chancellor, is an outstanding Caribbean citizen who served as Commonwealth Secretary General from 1975 to 1990, and his global efforts to end apartheid are well known.  He has also made a significant contribution to Caribbean educational progress.  In his tribute on the passing of Professor Nettleford, he described him as “an incandescent eagle because of the power and flight of his vision.  We shall not see his like again.  The best way he can be memorialized is by Caribbean people living the values in the public domain for which he stood”.

An official launch of the Foundation is being planned for a date to be announced shortly.