UWI Mourns the Loss of Professor Pedro Welch: A Tribute by Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles
February 23, 2025
UWI Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles reflects on the passing of Professor Pedro Welch, highlighting his significant contributions to academia, leadership, and mentorship in Barbados and the region.
UWI Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles has issued the following statement on the passing of Professor Pedro Welch:
The passing of Professor Pedro Welch has left a significant void in the public service culture of Barbados and the region.
The community of The University of the West Indies is particularly saddened by its loss of a fine scholar and senior member of the History family. His contributions have been wide ranging, from Faculty leadership to Deputy Principal of the Cave Hill campus.
Civic society was honoured to have his intervention and the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, especially, will keenly experience his departure. In all his endeavours he was committed to serving with dignity. His approach was always collegial. He embraced junior members in particular and in this fashion mentored many.
I was proud to have been the supervisor of his doctoral studies and closely watched his rising to the rank of professor. We shall always miss his voice and vision. May his soul rest in peace.
