Institute of Jamaica Musgrave Medals Award ceremony March 27

The Institute of Jamaica’s annual Musgrave Medals Award Ceremony takes place on March 27 at the Philip Sherlock Centre for the Creative Arts at The University of the West Indies, Mona. Now in its 126th year, the awards continues to recognise and honour outstanding contributions to literature, science, and art in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region.

There are three categories of awards – gold, silver and bronze.

This year’s Gold Medal awardees are Vivian Crawford – Leadership (Cultural Management); Professor Marcia Roye – Science; and Professor Carolyn Cooper – Literature.

Noted for dedicated and distinguished service in the field of arts and culture, Vivian Crawford, a Maroon born and bred in the hills of eastern Portland, has dedicated himself to the preservation of Maroon culture and environment. His voluntary service spans various areas, including supporting UNESCO’s efforts for Jamaica’s contribution to the intangible cultural heritage.

An outstanding scientist, mentor, and educator, Marcia Roye’s primary research focuses on molecular virology, specifically the genetic diversity of geminiviruses and antiretroviral drug resistance of HIV in Jamaican children and adults.

An international expert and pioneer on Jamaican popular culture, Carolyn Cooper is the author of two critically acclaimed books, including the field-defining Noises in the Blood: Orality, Gender. Her contributions have had a significant scholarly circulation and academic influence.

Silver Medal awardees are director, choreographer, author, actor, and dancer, Dr. Lenora Antoinette Stines – Arts (Dance); applied scientist and outstanding leader in the field of science, technology, and innovation in industry and the environment. Dr. Conrad Douglas, CD – Science; and Jamaican journalist, author, filmmaker, and cultural consultant, Barbara Blake-Hannah - Literature. She is the author of several books, including Rastafari – The New Creation.

Bronze Medal awardees are George ‘Fully’ Fullwood – Arts (Music); Carlton ‘Santa’ Davis – Arts (Music); Merline Bardowell – Science; Dr. Sharma Taylor - Literature.

Fullwood is recognised for his singular style among premier Jamaican studio and show performers worldwide. His innovative bass lines have profoundly permeated the global music scene, shaping the sounds of Jamaican music.

Davis’ drumming artistry is regarded as a level symbolising peculiarities that define reggae music’s uniqueness. He joined his friend Fullwood in the Rhythm Raiders in 1969, which later became Soul Syndicate.

Merline Bardowell, a former executive director of the National Commission on Science and Technology, has been contributing significantly to science and technology in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean for over 37 years.

Sharma Taylor is an award-winning and critically acclaimed Jamaican writer and lawyer. Her short stories appear in various anthologies, showcasing her literary talent and cultural insights.

Executive Director at the Institute of Jamaica, Leslie Harrow stated that, “This year’s Musgrave Medals Award Ceremony continues our tradition of honouring excellence and innovation in Jamaica. We are thrilled to recognise the remarkable achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to literature, science, and art, enriching our cultural landscape and inspiring future generations.”

Named after Sir Anthony Musgrave, the Musgrave Medals have been a hallmark of excellence since their inception in 1889. Each year, the Institute of Jamaica bestows these medals upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields.

The ceremony will feature presentations of the medals to the recipients, as well as performances and displays highlighting the diversity and creativity of Jamaica’s cultural heritage.