THE GraceKennedy Foundation (GKF) recently celebrated the ongoing work and achievements of the two GKF-funded University of the West Indies Professorial Chairs in Environment and Management. Held on October 29 at the UWI Regional Headquarters, the event, titled, ESG in Action, brought together academics, corporate leaders, and community members to showcase how the work of the two chairs is aligned with GraceKennedy’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles for sustainable development in Jamaica.

During her presentation, Professor Lila Rao Graham, the S Carlton Alexander chair in management, discussed her work in data-driven innovation and its role in sustainable development. She emphasised the importance of data ecosystems in addressing sustainable development goals (SDG)-related challenges, advocating for a Caribbean-focused data revolution that can aid in more effective resource management and development policy. Rao Graham has also worked closely with both public and private sectors to promote data-sharing practices, enhancing collaboration across sectors for improved governance and innovation.

Professor Mona Webber, the James S Moss-Solomon Sr chair in environmental management, presented on her extensive research in coastal and marine preservation, which includes the conservation of Jamaica’s seagrasses, mangroves, and queen conch populations. Her projects include in-water sampling of mangrove biomass to assess carbon storage and restoration potential. This research is essential for understanding how to counteract regional greenhouse gas emissions.

Speaking at the event, Gail Moss-Solomon, general counsel and chief corporate secretary of GraceKennedy Ltd and chair of GraceKennedy’s ESG Committee, commended both chairs on their contributions to research and innovation that benefit the region. “We are proud to support the work of Professors Webber and Rao Graham, whose research exemplifies our dedication to creating lasting, positive impacts through responsible business practices,” said Moss-Solomon. “The contributions of these professorial chairs underscore the potential for collaborative efforts to advance critical issues like environmental stewardship and data-driven decision-making, which are core to GraceKennedy’s ESG mission.”

“The work of the chairs complements GraceKennedy’s broader ESG priorities, especially in the areas of environmental stewardship, responsible governance, and social impact. These principles are at the core of the foundation’s mission, guiding our efforts to foster positive, sustainable change,” said Julie Meeks-Gardner, director of the GraceKennedy Foundation.

The James S Moss-Solomon Sr chair in environment, established in 1992, and the S Carlton Alexander chair in management, established in 1990, receive a combined annual investment of $11 million from the GraceKennedy Foundation to support research that drives sustainable and responsible development.

Prof Lila Rao Graham, holder of the S Carlton Alexander chair in management, delivers her research findings