Liberty alumnus leads security efforts in fight against drugs, illegal weapons, and trafficking in Caribbean nation

Dr. Edwin Powell (’09), who earned a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling through Liberty University Online Programs, is no stranger to the cruelty of human nature.

Serving as Special Advisor to the Ministry of National Security in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, Powell plays an important role in supporting efforts to combat the trafficking of illegal drugs, weapons, and human beings throughout the Caribbean. His work focuses on strengthening regional security and helping to prevent illicit activities that may use the region as a transit point for entry into the United States through its southern border. He also collaborates closely with the government on initiatives that address violent crime through a public health approach, emphasizing prevention, intervention, and community well-being.

Powell serves as an advisor to the Honorable Dr. Terrance M. Drew, Prime Minister and Minister of National Security of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, providing guidance on matters related to national security. As a member of the National Security Council, he regularly engages with leaders from the police service, defense forces, customs, immigration, corrections, social services, education, and other key agencies to discuss best practices, coordinate strategic initiatives, and strengthen efforts aimed at protecting the security of the nation and the wider region.

“We face significant challenges related to the trafficking of illegal drugs, weapons, and people throughout the region,” Powell said. “Addressing violence, drug transshipment, and human trafficking in the Caribbean is essential to regional and international security. If these issues are not effectively addressed, criminal activity will continue to exploit established transit routes, creating consequences that extend well beyond our borders. Strengthening cooperation and enforcement efforts across the region is critical to protecting our communities and maintaining security throughout the hemisphere.”

Powell begins his day at 3:30 a.m., heading to a local golf course for an 8-mile run. By 6:30 a.m., he is focused on reviewing national security priorities and collaborating with the Joint Security Operations Tactical Team (JSOTT) and the Intelligence Fusion Center — two initiatives he helped develop to enhance interagency coordination and public safety. Through these partnerships, he works closely with key stakeholders to support coordinated strategies, information sharing, and proactive initiatives aimed at strengthening national security and improving the well-being of communities throughout the Federation.

A native of Southside Virginia, Powell is a father of four and grandfather of four. He has been married for 35 years to Dr. Elizabeth Hobson-Powell, who recently retired from the United States Public Health Service after 20 years of service safeguarding the health of the nation. He was awarded the St. Lucia Medal of Honor (Gold), one of the nation’s highest distinctions, in recognition of his contributions to national security. Beyond his public service, he is actively engaged in pro bono counseling and mentoring, a ministry that he regards as an extension of his faith and a way to support and encourage others through a values-based approach.

Reflecting on his journey, Powell emphasized the importance of faith, perseverance, and purpose. He said remaining steadfast in one’s convictions and attentive to life’s opportunities can provide direction and clarity. Throughout his life and career, he said he credits his faith as the foundation that has guided his decisions and shaped his path.

In his early career, Powell worked as a special education teacher and school principal within the DC Public Schools system. He also taught at George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College, and at Howard University College of Medicine, where he served in the Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, as well as Community and Family Medicine and Internal Medicine.

Powell earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University, followed by four master’s degrees from four separate universities (including Liberty) as well as a doctorate from George Mason. In 2016, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Essex College following his commencement keynote address, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to human rights and education.

When Powell desired to pursue a pastoral counseling degree to help him lead his ministry, he looked for a school that aligned with his Christian, conservative values and integrated the Bible in every aspect of the curriculum. He first visited campus in 2007 and said he felt a special presence and knew Liberty was the place to be.

“Every day I wake up, I am influenced by my experience at Liberty,” he said. “It has shaped my course, my outlook, and it has navigated me through some austere times. The program itself instilled values of faith and freedom that has guided my careers, both domestic and while I’ve been abroad. It has really shaped me.”

St. Kitts and Nevis is a predominantly Christian nation, with a diverse religious landscape that includes a range of denominations such as Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal, and Roman Catholic traditions, alongside smaller faith communities and historical religious influences on the islands. Powell said he often places a strong emphasis on faith in his public and personal life and regularly engages with Christian congregations across different denominations.

“I’m going to continue to allow God to use me as a vessel. … I will continue to give Him all the praise and hide myself behind the cross so that His works will be glorified,” he added.

Powell said he always makes a concerted effort to thank the people and institutions that influenced his life, a value instilled by his mother.

“Liberty University played a critical role in molding my approach to leadership by reinforcing a strong sense of duty to the common good,” he said. “The lessons I learned in Pastoral Counseling have proven invaluable in my work, particularly in understanding the human elements of policy and decision making and supporting the leadership of those in positions of power. … I am deeply grateful for the education and experiences that helped shape my career and for the lasting influence Liberty University continues to have on my life.”