Antigua and Barbuda is marking another moment of national pride following the academic achievement of Dr. Jewel B. Thomas, who has earned her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health from East Tennessee State University in the United States.

Dr. Thomas officially graduated on Saturday, December 13, 2025, completing years of rigorous study and research in a field critical to global and regional development. Her accomplishment places her among a small and distinguished group of Antiguans to have attained a doctoral degree in public health from the state of Tennessee.

The achievement has been widely praised as a testament to perseverance, discipline, and academic excellence, bringing honour not only to Dr. Thomas and her family, but also to her community and the wider nation.

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Thomas expressed gratitude to those who supported her along the way. She credits her success to the unwavering encouragement of her family, as well as the guidance of her tutors and the consistent support of friends and well-wishers throughout her academic pursuit.

Dr. Thomas is being saluted for flying the national flag high and for serving as a powerful example to young people across Antigua and Barbuda, demonstrating that with determination and support, academic excellence at the highest level is attainable.

Her success adds to the growing list of Antiguans making significant contributions in academia and public health on the international stage.