Bronx, NY – August 22, 2025 — The Sandy Point Benevolent Society (SPBS) proudly announces the five distinguished individuals who will be honored at its 2025 Annual Awards Banquet. These honorees exemplify the Society’s core values of resilience, generosity, innovation, and cultural pride, and their stories inspire a renewed commitment to service and community empowerment.
SPBS President Dr. Stewart Williams remarked: “Each year, we come together not only to celebrate the accomplishments of our honorees but to remind ourselves of the power of giving back. These remarkable individuals show us that when we invest in others, we strengthen our community and create opportunities for generations to come. We invite everyone to join us in honoring their legacies and supporting our mission: Give so that others can move forward.”
2025 Honorees
Dr. Almesha L. Campbell
A native of Newton Ground Village, St. Kitts, Dr. Campbell serves as Associate Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University (JSU), managing a $120M research portfolio. A national leader in innovation and technology transfer, she co-founded JSU’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and the Innovation Fellows Program. She has held prominent leadership positions including Chair of the AUTM Board of Directors (2023–2024) and membership on the ARIS Advisory Board. A proud Sandy Point High School alumna, she continues to support SPBS and delivered the 2022 Awards Banquet keynote address.
Mrs. Gracemae Denise Rosalia Richardson-Carty
Born in Sandy Point, St Kitts and now residing in Anguilla, Mrs. Richardson-Carty is a trailblazer in entrepreneurship and service. A University of the Virgin Islands graduate with highest honors, she co-founded Paramount Pharmacy and later expanded into real estate. Her community leadership has earned her Anguilla’s RISE Award and the Women Who Inspire Award. Deeply committed to philanthropy, she supports SPBS initiatives including the Easter Breakfast and banquet magazine.
Mr. Leroy Powell
A visionary entrepreneur from Newton Ground, Mr. Powell founded Island Purified Water—the Federation’s first bottled water company. From modest beginnings and after serving in the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, he grew his business into a leading enterprise employing nearly 40 people. A committed philanthropist, he supports schools, sports, and youth development across the island.
Ms. Abena Amory
Singer, songwriter, and maternal health advocate, Ms. Amory is the daughter of vocalist Jacqueline Erlene Williams-King and the late Hon. Vance Amory. She has performed across the U.S. and Caribbean with renowned artists such as Jennifer Hudson and Romain Virgo. Beyond music, she is a certified doula, author, and advocate for reproductive justice, generously donating resources to youth and mothers in St. Kitts, Dominica, and New York.
Mr. Troy K. “Bif” Mills
A cultural ambassador and educator, Mr. Mills currently serves as Director of Culture in St. Kitts and Nevis. His leadership includes chairing the CARICOM Regional Cultural Committee, promoting heritage, and enriching national life through music, media, sports, and education. Also an accomplished referee, musician, and community servant, he is guided by his motto: “Always be Positive in your Thoughts, Words & Actions.”
The 2025 SPBS Annual Awards Banquet will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Maestro’s Caterers, 1703 Bronxdale Avenue, Bronx, New York, from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Guests will enjoy an evening of dinner, entertainment, and celebration for a ticket price of $125. For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact Anthony (917-328-6875), Paulette (347-755-2218), or Trevor D. (917-560-1262). Additional details, including ticket purchases and raffle opportunities, are available online at www.spbsinc.org.
The Sandy Point Benevolent Society invites all supporters, alumni, and friends to attend this inspirational evening as we celebrate our honorees’ achievements and recommit to advancing education, opportunity, and community development at home and abroad.