Inaugural Eustace Hill STEM Scholarship Awarded to Lakeea Allen, Honouring a Legacy of Education and Innovation

A new chapter in educational excellence began this morning as the Board of Education officially launched the Eustace Hill STEM Scholarship during a moving ceremony at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa. The initiative, named in honour of the late educator and administrator Mr. Eustace Hill, aims to support Antiguan and Barbudan students pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

The first recipient of the scholarship is Ms. Lakeea Allen, who is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Derby in the United Kingdom. Although unable to attend in person, Ms. Allen expressed her gratitude in a heartfelt pre-recorded message, thanking the Board of Education for its belief in her and its investment in the country’s youth. Her father, Mr. Alfredo Allen, proudly accepted the award on her behalf, receiving warm applause from attendees.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ms. Denise Gardiner, described the scholarship as a tribute not only to Mr. Hill’s legacy but also to the transformative power of education.

“This scholarship represents vision, opportunity, and legacy,” she said. “Through it, we honour Mr. Hill’s lifelong commitment to education by investing in the next generation of innovators who will build Antigua and Barbuda’s future.”

Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, Hon. Daryll Matthew, reflected on Mr. Hill’s enduring impact on the nation’s education landscape. He fondly recalled his own early experiences with Mr. Hill as host of the popular Junior Science Quiz, noting how Hill’s mentorship inspired countless young minds.

“Mr. Hill was a gracious and engaging educator who believed in the potential of every child,” Minister Matthew said. “This scholarship carries forward his passion for learning and ensures that his influence continues to shape our nation’s future through STEM education.”

Ms. Sharon Proctor, Human Resources Manager at the Board of Education, who worked closely with Mr. Hill, remembered him as a pillar of integrity and dedication.

“Mr. Hill’s life was defined by service and purpose. He built a culture of professionalism and stewardship that still guides us at the Board of Education today,” she said.

Members of the Hill family attended the ceremony and were visibly moved by the tributes. Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms. Arica Hill, daughter of the late educator, expressed deep gratitude for the honour bestowed on her father.

“Daddy was more than an educator; he was our compass,” she shared. “He taught us to lead with integrity, to pursue excellence, and to live with humility and heart. Seeing his legacy live on through this scholarship is both touching and inspiring.”

Among those in attendance were Director of Education Mr. Clare Browne, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Ena Dalso-Henry, Executive Secretary Mrs. Carla Farquhar, Mrs. Rosa Greenaway of the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, and members of the Board of Education’s management team, along with representatives from the Hill and Allen families.

The launch of the Eustace Hill STEM Scholarship stands as a milestone in the Board of Education’s ongoing mission to promote access, equity, and excellence in learning. It reaffirms Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to nurturing a generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders poised to drive the nation’s progress in an increasingly technology-driven world.