Reggae royalty is set to take center stage at the University of the West Indies (UWI) this graduation season, as the institution prepares to honour the legendary Marcia Griffiths with an honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt). Widely celebrated as the “Queen of Reggae,” Griffiths will receive the accolade at the Mona Campus between October 30 and November 1, marking yet another milestone in a career that has spanned six decades.
Griffiths’ impact on Jamaican culture and global music is nothing short of extraordinary. With nineteen solo albums, five duet projects alongside Bob Andy, and countless collaborations—including timeless hits like I Shall Sing and Fire Burning—she has demonstrated remarkable versatility. According to UWI, “Her ability to adapt to changing times has secured her longevity in a competitive industry.” Beyond her artistry, Griffiths’ recognition as a pioneering woman in reggae has helped shape the narrative of female empowerment in a space once dominated by men.
Her national honours speak volumes about her contribution: the Order of Distinction (OD) in 1994, promotion to Commander Class in 2014, and most recently, the Order of Jamaica (OJ) in 2023. Now, UWI’s DLitt cements her legacy not only as a performer but also as a cultural ambassador whose influence extends well beyond the stage.
The university will also posthumously confer the Doctor of Laws (LLD) on Don Wehby, the late business executive and former Group CEO of GraceKennedy Limited, who passed away in July 2025. Wehby is remembered as a transformational leader who championed corporate social responsibility, youth development through sports, and Jamaica’s global economic footprint. His career was decorated with numerous accolades, including the International Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2015 and the Order of Jamaica in 2024.
In announcing the honorary graduands, UWI emphasised the breadth of contributions being celebrated this year, spanning “Music, Agriculture, Religion, Science and Research, and Aviation.” But for many, the moment will belong to Marcia Griffiths—the indomitable Queen of Reggae, whose life’s work continues to inspire generations and solidify Jamaica’s cultural influence on the world stage.
