His Excellency Sir Rodney Errey Lawrence Williams, GCMG, KGN, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, was on Thursday, May 22, 2025, conferred with yet another Honourary Doctor of Medical Science degree by the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine during its 2025 Commencement Ceremony held in Newark, New Jersey.
In addition to receiving the distinguished honorary degree, His Excellency served as the Keynote Speaker for the commencement, addressing the graduating class of medical professionals and emphasizing the importance of ethical practice, lifelong learning, compassion in patient care, and service to humanity.
Sir Rodney’s recognition was in tribute to his outstanding service as a physician and national leader. His career in medicine has spanned over four decades, including work as an emergency medical physician, district medical officer, and advocate for community-based healthcare. Notably, he provided free medical clinics, led training of nurse practitioners, lectured pro bono to student nurses in piediatrics at the Holberton Hospital and offered regular medical care — gratis —to residents of Barbuda before assuming national leadership roles.
In politics, Sir Rodney served as a Member of Parliament for two decades and held multiple ministerial portfolios, including Education, Tourism, and Culture. Since his appointment as Governor-General in 2014, he has championed heritage preservation, social development, and education through partnerships and patronage of over forty organizations.
The honourary doctorate celebrates his dual legacy of healing and leadership, reflecting AUA’s mission to inspire excellence in global medical education and service.
His Excellency was accompanied by his wife, Her Excellency Lady Williams, who joined him in extending warm congratulations to the graduates and their families.
The Office of The Governor General – Antigua and Barbuda