Four Haitians Recognized for Their Contributions in Italy
On October 24, 2026, four prominent Haitian figures were honored at the Norman-Swabian Castle of Sannicandro di Bari, Italy, during the closing ceremony of the tenth edition of the Lucius Annaeus Seneca International Academic Prize for Contemporary Literature. The event celebrated the scientific, academic, and civic achievements of Haitians on an international stage.
The Senate of the Academy of Philosophical Arts and Sciences of Bari recognized these individuals for their outstanding research, leadership, and humanitarian efforts:
Professor Evens Emmanuel received the title of Scientiae et Civilitatis Magister and the Cross of Academic Merit for his significant contributions to environmental sciences, focusing on water, public health, and sustainability. Emmanuel is a member of the National Agency for Higher Education and Scientific Research (ANESRS) and teaches at Quisqueya University, where he also holds a UNESCO Chair dedicated to water, hygiene, and sanitation in educational facilities.
Ms. Vanessa Clergé was named Ambasciatrice della Pace (Ambassador of Peace). A final-year student at Quisqueya University’s Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Clergé is an emerging leader committed to promoting peace, youth leadership, and international cooperation.
Dre. Marie Guerda Nicolas received the Laudis Charta Ob Obfirmata Opera e Studio distinction. A Haitian-American psychologist and professor at the University of Miami, Nicolas holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from Boston University and is a co-founder of Ayiti Community Trust.
Me Jean Baptiste Brown was honored with the title Humanitatis e Iustitiae Magister. With over 46 years of experience as a lawyer and a former Minister of Justice and Public Security in Haiti, Brown’s award recognizes his lifelong dedication to law, justice, and humanism.
In his acceptance speech, Professor Evens Emmanuel dedicated his award to the Haitian University community and emphasized the importance of knowledge and research as tools for emancipation and equity in serving populations.
The Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP) congratulated the honorees, highlighting their contributions to advancing Haitian knowledge, culture, and values globally. Their achievements are a source of national pride.
