Hilary Beckles, vice chancellor at the University of the West Indies, has been named a 2026–2027 Distinguished Scholar by New York University’s Center for the Study of Africa and the African Diaspora. As part of this honor, Dr. Beckles recently traveled to NYU to deliver a public lecture centered on the economics of enslaved Black women.
“This is a valued expression of fellowship, especially as the Centre is renowned for its outstanding scholarship and research,” said Dr. Beckles. “In 1994, I was a visiting scholar at NYU’s Centre for Latin American and Caribbean Studies and was succeeded by Professor Kamau Brathwaite. Being back at NYU after 32 years, now among leading scholars of African history, will be special.”
Dr. Beckles, a professor of economic history and economic development, has been affiliated with the University of the West Indies since 1979 and has served in several key leadership roles throughout his tenure. He was first appointed vice chancellor of the university in 2015. As a scholar and historian, Dr. Beckles is known for his research on transatlantic slavery, popular culture, and sport. He has authored numerous publications, including Britain’s Black Debt: Reparations for Caribbean Slavery and Native Genocide (University Press of the West Indies, 2013). In addition to his university service, Dr. Beckles is director of SAGICOR Financial Corporation, the largest financial company in the Caribbean region. He has also been involved with numerous United Nations committees and projects throughout his lifetime.
Dr. Beckles earned his bachelor’s degree and his Ph.D. from the University of Hull in England.
