Dr Peter Phillips, Dr Nigel Clarke, Audrey Stewart-Hinchcliffe being recognised for national development contributions

Durrant Pate/Contributor

The University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), Jamaica’s fast-growing private university, will confer honorary doctorates on three distinguished Jamaicans at its 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, July 20, at the National Arena.

Dr Phillips, a former Minister of Finance and Planning and Opposition Leader, will receive the Honorary Doctor of Economics (D.Econ) for his central role in Jamaica’s fiscal transformation. As Finance Minister (2012-2016), he led a landmark International Monetary Fund (IMF) agreement that restored global confidence and helped stabilise the economy. 

His legacy includes debt reduction, inclusive policy-making, and over three decades of public service. A respected lecturer and author, Dr Phillips has shaped national dialogue on governance and development.

“He is a visionary and a respected voice in Caribbean public policy,” declared UCC President Professor Colin Gyles, who added, “his leadership and commitment to equity reflect the core values of UCC and the lasting impact of nation-building.”

Nigel Clarke Audrey Stewart-Hinchcliffe

For his part, Dr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director at the IMF and former Minister of Finance and the Public Service, will receive the Honorary Doctor of Finance (DFin) for his leadership in transforming Jamaica’s economy. A Rhodes Scholar and Oxford-trained economist, Dr. Clarke spearheaded key reforms such as central bank independence, creation of an independent fiscal commission, tax policy overhaul, and strengthened public sector governance. 

According to the UCC President, “Dr. Clarke’s impressive track record at both national and international levels exemplifies the transformative power of purpose-driven public service. We are proud to honour him for shaping a resilient economic framework that continues to inspire the region and the world.”

Stewart-Hinchcliffe, Founder and Chairman of Caribbean Health Management Consultants and Manpower & Maintenance Services Group, will receive the Honorary Doctorate in Business and Entrepreneurship (D.B.E. Hon).  A pioneer in healthcare and business, she served as CARICOM’s first Health Development Officer, shaping policy across 17 member states and advancing regional health development. 

An accomplished author and passionate advocate for job creation and skills training, her work has helped build stronger communities and contributed significantly to nation-building in Jamaica. Her lasting impact spans the health, education, and business sectors.

 “We are honoured to recognise Mrs Stewart-Hinchcliffe, a trailblazer whose leadership and innovation exemplify the values UCC stands for,” explained Professor Gyles. 

Past UCC honourees include Professor Errol Morrison, Bruce Bowen, Dr. Henry Lowe, Richard Byles, Gary Hendrickson; US Congresswoman, Yvette D. Clarke, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest, Dorothy Pine-McLarty, Leighton McKnight, Godfrey Dyer, Professor Sandra Reid, Governor Wes Moore, Dr. Tricia Bailey, Sir Richard Branson, Minister Edmund Bartlett, Adam Stewart, and Dr. Patricia V. Smith. 

Their distinguished achievements reflect UCC’s commitment to recognising excellence and leadership across diverse fields, inspiring future generations.