–Former Vice President Praises Charles Ghankay Taylor IV for Earning Honor Roll Distinction While Overcoming the Loss of His Father Earlier This Year
MONROVIA – Former Vice President Chief Dr. Jewel Howard-Taylor has publicly congratulated her grandson, Charles Ghankay Taylor IV, for earning Honor Roll status and successfully completing the 11th Grade at the HILA School of Excellence, describing the achievement as a powerful demonstration of resilience, determination, and perseverance in the face of personal tragedy.
In a heartfelt message shared on Monday, Howard-Taylor said the accomplishment carries special significance because it comes just months after the death of Charles’ father, Neilson Philip Charles Taylor, whose passing in January 2026 deeply affected the entire family.
The former Vice President noted that despite the emotional pain and challenges associated with the loss of his father, the young student remained committed to his academic pursuits and continued striving for excellence.
“Today, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to my beloved grandson, Charles Ghankay Taylor IV, on the successful completion of the 11th Grade and his well-deserved placement on the Honor Roll of HILA School of Excellence,” Howard-Taylor wrote.
She described the achievement as a testament to her grandson’s character and resolve during one of the most difficult periods of his life.
“In January 2026, Charles suffered the profound loss of his father, Neilson Philip Charles Taylor, a loss that brought great pain and sorrow to our entire family,” she said. “Yet, despite the grief and challenges, he remained focused on his studies, demonstrated strength of character, and continued to pursue excellence as his father had advised him constantly.”
Howard-Taylor said her grandson’s accomplishment serves as a reminder that adversity does not determine a person’s future, but rather how individuals respond to life’s challenges.
“Your accomplishment reminds us that adversity does not define us—our response to adversity does,” she stated. “Your determination, discipline, and perseverance have made your father proud and have inspired all of us who love you.”
Message to Liberia’s Youth
Beyond celebrating her grandson’s success, the former Vice President used the occasion to encourage young Liberians to pursue academic excellence and embrace the values of responsible citizenship.
Quoting the late South African anti-apartheid leader and former President Nelson Mandela, Howard-Taylor reminded students that education remains one of the most powerful tools for personal and national transformation.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” she said, citing Mandela’s famous words.
She urged students not to view academic achievement solely as a means of earning honors, but as preparation for service to society and positive contributions to national development.
According to her, young people must combine intellectual growth with strong moral values, including honesty, integrity, compassion, and respect for others.
“Our world needs young men and women who are not only intelligent, but also responsible, ethical, and caring,” she emphasized. “Let your education shape both your minds and your character.”
Overcoming Setbacks
Howard-Taylor also encouraged young people facing personal difficulties not to allow setbacks to derail their ambitions.
She said life’s challenges can become opportunities for growth when confronted with courage, faith, and determination.
“To every student, remember: setbacks are not the end of the journey,” she wrote. “Challenges can become stepping stones to greatness when met with courage, faith, and determination.”
Addressing her grandson directly, she urged him to continue striving for success while remaining humble.
“Charles, please continue to dream big, work hard, and walk with humility. Your future is bright, and this honor is only one milestone on a path of even greater accomplishments ahead.”
The former Vice President concluded her message by offering congratulations to the young scholar and giving thanks to God for his achievement.
“Congratulations. To God be the glory and may God continue to guide and bless you,” she said.
The message has since attracted attention on social media, with many Liberians joining Howard-Taylor in congratulating Charles Ghankay Taylor IV on his academic accomplishment and commending him for maintaining focus on his education despite the loss of his father.
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