On Friday, September 29, a commemorative volume celebrating the life and work of the late Emeritus Professor Selwyn Ryan was unveiled at The Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES) at UWI St Augustine.
Over 40 colleagues, friends, and mentees whose lives were touched by Professor Ryan's wisdom, shared their reflections. The narratives were curated by Dr Godfrey St Bernard, the former Acting Director of SALISES at St Augustine.
Entitled Remembering Selwyn Ryan – Tributes from Colleagues and Friends, the tributes coalesced into a story offering a deeply personal glimpse into Professor Ryan's life and character. The book aims to immortalise Professor Ryan and his ideas, providing insights into his life, work, and legacy. It is intended for readers of all age groups.
Professor Ryan had a remarkable career spanning several decades, both within the university and in various public roles. During the 1960s and 1970s, he served as a lecturer and Head of the Department of Government at The UWI. In the early 1980s, he took on national roles, including Chairman of the Regulated Industries Commission. However, he returned to The UWI in 1986, where he was appointed as the Director of the Institute of Social and Economic Research (ISER) on the St Augustine campus.
A significant milestone in his career was the merger of ISER and the Consortium School of Graduate Studies and Research in 1999, leading to the establishment of SALISES. Professor Ryan became the first Director of SALISES and also served as the University Director of SALISES Regional, overseeing branches at the Mona, Cave Hill, and St Augustine campuses.
Remembering Selwyn Ryan – Tributes from Colleagues and Friends is available for purchase at leading bookstores.