Trinidadian calypsonian Dr. Hollis “Chalkdust” Liverpool, a co-founder of the Sunshine Awards Hall of Fame, was recognized on January 29, 2025, by the Board of Governors of the University of Trinidad and Tobago with the esteemed title of Prof. Emeritus for his “lifelong contribution to education, research, and the performing arts,” according to the Sunshine Awards Organization, based in New Jersey, US.
Gal Figaro, Sr., the Sunshine Awards’ founder and chairman, who was born in Trinidad, remarked, “The Sunshine Awards Organization wishes to congratulate Dr. Liverpool on this well-deserved honor.” While further mentioning, “Dr. Liverpool has made remarkable contributions to the academic community, not only as a professor but also through his extensive work as a mentor and coach.”
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“His influence has spanned across numerous industries, guiding and inspiring countless students and professionals to achieve their highest potential.” In addition, he claimed, “His teachings, now immortalized in many published books, have become vital resources, and can be found in many libraries around the world.”
Dr. Liverpool presently serves as the director of the National University of Trinidad and Tobago’s Academy for Arts, Letters, Culture, and Public Affairs.
Dr. Liverpool, a distinguished calypsonian, historian, and scholar, has been a pioneer in the performing arts in addition to academia, Figaro added. He stated, “His research, compositions, and performances in this domain have enriched the cultural landscape, and have left a legacy for Trinidad and Tobago and, by extension, the world.” Many people from many generations are still inspired and moved by his work.
Figaro noted, “I am very proud of Dr. Liverpool.” He explains, “His life’s mission has been to leave the world better than he met it. His drive to improve the lives of others, coupled with his passion for lifelong learning, have positioned him as a leader and role model across many disciplines. We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible recognition. Dr. Liverpool’s profound impact on education and the arts will continue to inspire for generations to come.”
The professor of calypso arts (UTT), Hollis Urban Lester Liverpool, ORTT, spent 35 years as a primary and secondary school teacher in Trinidad and Tobago before working as a cultural officer and director of culture at the Ministry of Culture from 1993 to 1999.
In addition to founding and serving as the first head of the Carnival Institute, Dr. Liverpool has conducted a great deal of study on various aspects of Caribbean and Trinidad and Tobago culture. He has a Ph.D. in history and ethnomusicology, an M.A. in African history, a diploma in philosophy, and a B.A. in history and sociology from the University of the West Indies. He also has an M.A. in World History.
In addition to addressing several international conferences on carnival and culture, Dr. Liverpool has authored numerous articles and books throughout the years, including his magnum opus, Rituals of Power and Rebellion (Chicago: Frontline, 2001). He has recorded more than 300 calypsos as Calypsonian Chalkdust and has won many contests, including the Calypso Monarch of Trinidad and Tobago nine times and the King of the World Calypso Contest.
He has won several accolades, including the renowned Prince Claus Award from the Dutch government, as well as citations, diplomas, trophies, medals, and honors for his services to calypso and the arts. According to the Trinidad and Tobago government, Dr. Liverpool is among the top 50 instructors in the country and one of the greatest calypsonians of all time. The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT), the country’s highest honor, was given to him in September 2019.
