This March, Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University, was the sole recipient of the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago at a ceremony in Port of Spain, the highest honor the country bestows to nationals or non-nationals. He received the medal during the National Awards 2020 ceremony that had been postponed for two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The award is given to individuals who display “distinguished and outstanding service to Trinidad and Tobago,” according to the National Awards website. Dr. Frederick was recognized for his contributions to medicine and education. The awards ceremony took place at the President’s House, the official residence of the country’s president, Paula-Mae Weekes, who attended the awards gala, along with Prime Minister Keith Christopher Rowley.
Since moving to the United States at the age of 16 to attend Howard University, Dr. Frederick has maintained a strong connection with Trinidad and Tobago. Among other endeavors, he has led recruiting trips to encourage students to attend Howard University. He also funded the renovation of the newly renovated Wayne II & Kirie Frederick physics labs at St. Mary’s College in Trinidad, named in honor of his children in support of the high school he attended that helped prepare him for a future in medicine and academics.
“To receive this honor, and for my name to be included among so many of my home country’s most esteemed citizens, is truly humbling,” Dr. Frederick said. “I am forever grateful for all that Trinidad and Tobago has done for me and my family, and it will continue to be my life’s mission to serve this nation and prove myself worthy of so great an honor.”
Article ID: 821