Governor Honours Julie Cooper With Bem
Governor Daniel Pruce presented Julie Cooper with the British Empire Medal at an investiture ceremony on November 13, recognising her contributions to the Virgin Islands community. Government House encouraged residents to nominate other outstanding local contributors for UK honours, noting nominations are accepted year-round and the deadline for the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours is approaching.
Governor Daniel Pruce hosted an investiture ceremony on Thursday, November 13, formally presenting Julie Cooper with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of her contributions to the Virgin Islands community. The presentation is part of the United Kingdom’s honours system, which acknowledges individuals for exceptional community service, public work or national contribution.
Government House released a statement announcing the investiture and used the occasion to encourage residents to think about people in the Territory who have gone above and beyond. “Do you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the community?” the Governor’s Office asked, urging nominations from the public.
The British Empire Medal is awarded for meritorious civil or military service and sits within the wider UK honours framework that also includes the MBE, OBE and CBE. As a British Overseas Territory, the Virgin Islands participates in this system and local residents who demonstrate exemplary service are eligible for consideration.
Officials reminded the public that nominations for UK honours can be submitted year-round through the official government website at gov.uk/honours/types-of-honours-and-awards. They also noted that the deadline for the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours list is approaching, and encouraged community groups, employers and individuals to prepare nominations for people whose contributions have made a measurable difference across the Territory.
Nominations typically require details of the nominee’s achievements, the impact of their work on the community, and supporting information or references. Government House said the honours are an important way to recognise volunteers, public servants, community organisers and others whose efforts strengthen everyday life in the BVI.
For many residents, such awards highlight the often-unseen work of volunteers and local leaders — from grassroots projects to long-term public service. The Governor’s Office framed the investiture as both a celebration of Cooper’s service and an invitation for the community to identify and nominate other deserving individuals.
More information and guidance on how to submit a nomination can be found on the UK government’s honours webpages. Residents who are unsure about the process are encouraged to contact Government House for further advice on preparing nominations for the upcoming honours rounds.
Primary source: JTV