NEW YORK, United States (CMC)–Prime Minister Andrew Holness was honoured with the Legacy Award by the New York-based American Foundation for the University of the West Indies (AFUWI) during its 29th Annual “The Legacy Continues” Black-Tie Awards Gala in Manhattan on Friday.

Holness received one of the organisation’s highest honours at the event held at 538 Park Avenue, where he was among several distinguished recipients recognised for contributions to regional development, education, and leadership.

The award was presented by AFUWI Chairman Dr Cyrus McCalla, alongside University of the West Indies (UWI) Chancellor Dr Dodridge D. Miller and Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles.

Introducing the Jamaican leader, Sir Hilary highlighted Holness’ electoral success and sustained public support, noting that he has secured the mandate of the Jamaican people three times.

In accepting the award, Holness dismissed suggestions that such recognition signals the end of a political career, describing it instead as an acknowledgement of “hard work in progress.”

“Legacy is not what you receive but what you build,” he said, adding that Jamaica’s journey is one of untapped potential and continued development.

He also underscored the importance of UWI in adapting to a changing global environment, calling for a renewed focus on growth, efficiency, and innovation within the institution.

AFUWI Executive Director Ann-Marie Grant said Holness was recognised for his leadership and commitment to education, economic resilience, and regional collaboration, which she described as key pillars of Jamaica’s development.

She noted that the annual gala brings together leaders from business, academia, public service, and philanthropy to support scholarships for Caribbean students attending UWI.

Proceeds from the event fund scholarships aimed at expanding access to higher education across the region.

McCalla said the gala celebrates leaders whose vision and service help shape the Caribbean’s future, while also creating opportunities for students with limited financial resources.

Other honorees included Anthony and Gregory Belinfanti, who received the Pathfinder Award for Generational Impact in Education, and Dr Kevon Rhiney, who was presented with the Pelican Award.

Trinidadian-born Dr Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University, received the Caribbean Luminary Award, while Dr Wayne J. Riley, president of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, was honoured with the UWI Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Institutional Impact.

Camille Joseph-Goldman of Charter Communications received the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service and Community Impact, and global technology leader Jacky Wright was presented with the Phoenix Award for Global Digital Leadership.

Dr A. Norman Sabga, executive chairman of the ANSA McAL Group, received the Chancellor’s and Corporate Awards for Excellence in Global Business Leadership.

AFUWI said the awards recognise individuals whose achievements demonstrate the transformative impact of education and leadership across the Caribbean and its diaspora.