Ghanaian Reuben Cudjoe Hadzide earns CICA Honorary Doctorate
Ghanaian media personality, philanthropist, and community leader Reuben Cudjoe Hadzide has been awarded an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Human Letters-Honoris Causa by CICA-International University & Seminary during a ceremony at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, Florida on May 26, 2025, celebrating his significant contributions to the Ghanaian diaspora.
His efforts include funding scholarships for underprivileged students, supporting healthcare initiatives, and promoting youth empowerment. He joins previous Ghanaian CICA honourees like Naa Asie Ocansey (2014) and Sonnie Badu (2017) that were recognised for their extensive humanitarian work.
The university’s Governing Council and Graduation Committee commended Hadzide’s role in driving positive change. The U.S.-based institution incorporated in 2012, awards honorary degrees to individuals demonstrating exceptional community impact. Unlike traditional academic degrees, these honours focus on practical contributions rather than coursework.
Hadzide leverages his media platform to address social issues and amplify marginalized voices. His philanthropy cuts across education and healthcare, with initiatives that have uplifted communities in the Ghanaian diaspora. Beyond the media, he is also actively involved in mentoring young adults and spearheading initiatives that promote unity and civic responsibility.
Based in Chicago, he has been a key figure in the city’s Ghanaian community, serving as President of the Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago from 2005 to 2007. During his tenure, he engaged with city officials, the Ghana Embassy in Washington, and visiting Ghanaian dignitaries, strengthening ties between Ghana and its diaspora.
He played a pivotal role in transforming Ghanafest, a local neighbourhood festival in Chicago, into an internationally renowned event. Hadzide is also a seasoned administrative officer, leading a home care business in Illinois. His entrepreneurial experience has been instrumental in assisting others in the healthcare industry.
In October 2024, Hadzide received the U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from former President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., in an acknowledgement of his extensive volunteer service and commitment to community building.
Written by Abeeb Lekan Sodiq.
Abeeb Lekan Sodiq is a Managing Editor & Writer at theafricandream.net. He’s as well a Graphics Designer and also known as Arakunrin Lekan.
