Governor General Sir Rodney Williams has announced that three Antiguans have been named in King Charles III’s New Year Honours for exceptional service to Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Commonwealth.
Buckingham Palace confirmed the awards, which will be presented at upcoming investiture ceremonies.
Honoured are Janey Howell, appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for philanthropic service; Dr. Gabriella Poppy Valentine Howell, appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for philanthropic service; and Assistant Commissioner of Police Desmond Dinard, who received the King’s Police Medal (KPM) for service to the Royal Police Force.
Sir Rodney said the recipients reflect the nation’s “dedication to duty, generosity of spirit, and commitment to the welfare of others,” adding that their achievements bring pride to the country and inspire future generations.
Janey Howell was recognised for decades of voluntary work in heritage preservation and philanthropy, including contributions to the Heritage Trust of Antigua and Barbuda, support for the Government House museum project, and humanitarian assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
ACP Dinard was honoured for more than four decades in policing, including frontline and leadership roles since joining the force in 1982, with contributions to crime prevention, professional training and public safety.
Dr. Howell was recognised for leadership in cultural heritage and education, including restoring The Great House Antigua as a heritage tourism site and her work on the Government House Museum redevelopment, alongside charitable efforts in healthcare, education and environmental causes.
Sir Rodney said the honours underscore the international respect earned by Antiguans and Barbudans. Details of the investiture ceremonies will be announced.
