Guyanese businessman Maurice Gajadhar will receive an Honorary Ambassador Award from Irvine University on September 26, capping decades of service to Guyana in business, public service and philanthropy.

The recognition will be celebrated at a ceremony organised by Aimlay at the Crowne Plaza San Francisco, where family, friends and distinguished guests are expected to gather.

United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot described Gajadhar as one of Guyana's respected and accomplished business leaders, saying she got to know him during her three years in the country.

"He is a visionary who models integrity and strong business ethics," Theriot said, praising his dedication to both the public and private sectors.
Theriot also highlighted Gajadhar's commitment to national development and mentorship, saying his work could leave a legacy that benefits Guyana for decades. She pointed to Guyana's rapid transformation as an oil-producing nation and said leaders such as Gajadhar have an important role in ensuring the country continues to develop in the right direction.

Gajadhar's public service record includes stints on the Public Service Commission and the Police Service Commission, along with his role as Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Board Chairman, a post he has held since 2020, overseeing the state-owned utility amid major investments in energy infrastructure.

He was also among the recipients of the Golden Arrow of Achievement in 2018, recognising his contribution to national development.
Gajadhar also received an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from Dunster Business School, Switzerland, in July 2026, and an Honorary Doctorate in Public-Private Partnership Leadership and National Development from the University of California in the same month.

First Lady Arya Ali has extended congratulations to Gajadhar, recognising his leadership, entrepreneurship and contribution to national development. "Dr. Maurice Gajadhar, I extend my warmest congratulations to you on your recent appointment as Honorary Ambassador and the conferment of two honorary doctorates," she said, highlighting his decades of service across the gas, aviation, business and public sectors, together with his philanthropy. She also acknowledged his support for the Office of the First Lady and its initiatives.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips also congratulated Gajadhar, recalling their relationship dating back to the 1980s, when Gajadhar served as an officer in charge of customs at the then Timehri International Airport. Phillips said that even at 21, Gajadhar was disciplined, focused and committed to his responsibilities.
"I could see that there was something special about him. I knew he had the potential to make a difference, to become a leader, and to make a meaningful contribution to this country," Phillips said.

Phillips, who has responsibility for Guyana's energy sector, praised Gajadhar's leadership of GPL, saying he had brought focus, discipline and a strong sense of purpose to one of the country's most important state entities. "Guyana is better because of Maurice's service," he added.