Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith: Academic leader and author with deep Freeport ties

Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, a respected academic and valued resident of Freeport, NY, has made significant contributions both locally and globally.

One of his notable works, “The Quest for Security in the Caribbean: Problems and Promises in Subordinate States,” is a key reference for scholars and policymakers, exploring security challenges in the Caribbean.

At 69, Griffith is an active member of the Freeport Rotary Club, where he uses his leadership skills and experience to support community service projects.

Reflecting on his 17 years in Freeport, Griffith expressed, “I hope that they will appreciate that one of the longstanding residents of our village Freeport… would venture into a field to write a novel that will be exciting and interesting by people in the village, in Nassau or around the country but also in other parts of the world.”

Griffith has had a distinguished career in higher education, serving as President of Fort Valley State University and Vice Chancellor of The University of Guyana. His dedication to education and community service is evident through his active participation in Rotary Club initiatives aimed at improving residents’ lives and fostering community spirit.

Born in Guyana, South America, Griffith pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Guyana, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

He then completed a Master’s degree in Political Science at Long Island University in New York and earned a Ph.D. in Political Science from the City University of New York Graduate School.

Griffith began his career St. John's University, and later spent 12 years at Florida International University where he served as a faculty member and later as Dean of the Honors College. He made significant contributions to the academic community, promoting research excellence and academic integrity.

“I did work both in Guyana and in the US…. the area of specialization, as a political scientist is on national security issues, drug trafficking, organized crime issues in the United States and the Caribbean particularly have researched, written, and certainly consulted. Long career I served as a professor as a dean at the University of Florida, Florida International University,” Griffith explained.

As President of Fort Valley State University, Griffith led the university through significant growth and development, enhancing academic programs and strengthening community ties.

As Vice Chancellor and Principal of The University of Guyana, he focused on advancing higher education and research in the Caribbean.

Griffith is a prolific scholar, publishing extensively on Caribbean security issues, drug trafficking, and geopolitical dynamics. His works are known for their in-depth analysis and insights into complex issues.

Griffith’s community service is highlighted by his active role in the Freeport Rotary Club.

His leadership in numerous projects addresses local needs, supports educational programs, and promotes international understanding. His involvement highlights his commitment to making a positive impact both locally and globally.

On March 12, 2024, Griffith released his book, “Challenged Sovereignty: The Impact of Drugs, Crime, Terrorism, and Cyber Threats in the Caribbean.” This comprehensive 320-page work explores various security threats facing the Caribbean region. Griffith delves into how drugs, crime, terrorism, and cyber threats undermine the sovereignty and stability of Caribbean nations.

The book provides valuable insights into the geopolitical dynamics and policy implications for the region. A subsequent launch event was held in Trinidad on April 27, 2024. “Challenged Sovereignty” is essential for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the complex security landscape of the Caribbean.

Griffith has also authored a novel, “Sylvie’s Love and Loss,” set to be released on September 4, 2024. “The idea for the fiction novel came out of a project I was doing for almost 30 years ago. I wrote a very successful book in 1997… while researching for that book, I had an experience which I never believed I would have in the Caribbean island of Grenada.”

Since Griffith had this experience many years ago, that is when he knew he wanted to turn his experience into a fiction novel, but the work just happened to start to materialize after he retired in 2019.

A work of fiction had been on Griffith’s bucket-list, he explained to the Herald.

The novel takes readers on an emotional journey through the Caribbean, exploring love and resilience in Grenada’s vibrant social climate. The story follows Sylvie, a strong woman navigating love, heartbreak, and healing.

Griffith’s vivid storytelling captures the depth of human emotions and the impact of loss on self-discovery and resilience.

“The primary character Sylvie. I used Sylvie to represent (a) woman (from my past) with whom I had (an) experience,” Griffith stated.

To celebrate the release of “Sylvie’s Love and Loss,” join Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith for a book signing on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at the Grand Central Cafe, 1166 Avenue of the Americas in Manhattan, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to meet Griffith, learn about the inspiration behind the story, and discuss themes of love, loss, and human connection.

Griffith’s journey from an enthusiastic learner in Guyana to a respected academic and community leader in Freeport is inspiring.

His contributions to education, scholarship, and community service highlight his dedication to making a positive impact on the world around him.

Though the novel’s publication date is set for September 4, Grifffith shared with the Herald that the book will be available pre-release later this month.

The novel will be available on Audible, and where books are sold online.