Profiles: Heroes, Role Models and Pioneers of Trinidad and Tobago - by Nasser Khan

109 MICHAEL BEAUBRUN (1924-2002) P rofessor Michael Beaubrun was held many titles including Doctor, Professor and Senator. A psychiatrist by profession, Professor Beaubrun made important contributions to the fields of alcoholism and mental health. In 1956, his efforts led to the introduction of Alcoholics Anonymous in the West Indies. In1976 he was awarded the Chaconia Medal Gold and in 1998 an honourary Doctor of Science from the UWI. ANDRE CIPRIANI (1908-1956) D r André Joseph Cipriani, Trinidad and Tobago’s first major biophysicist, was best known for his expertise on radiation and pioneering work in cancer treatment.  He was one of the first scientists in the world with practical expertise in the medical applications of radiation and was described as the most knowledgeable expert on radiation hazards in the world. LOUIS A. A. DE VERTEUIL (1807-1900) A rima-born, he attended medical school in Paris and was a doctor in T&T for over 50 years. As a Roman Catholic, he fought for benefits for the sector and was responsible for the founding of St. Mary’s College after visiting Rome to get help from the Holy Ghost Fathers. He was elected the first Mayor of Port of Spain when it became a borough in 1853 and again from 1859 to 1864 and was a long standing Member of the Legislative Council from 1864 to 1895. He was the owner of both sugar and cocoa estates and the author of the book Trinidad; Its Geography, Natural Resources, Administration, Present Condition and