Quinn-Williams: “I don’t need an academic degree to serve effectively”

Senator Challenges Focus on Academic Qualifications in Budget Debate

Senator Pearl Quinn-Williams took to the Senate floor during the 2025 Budget debate to argue that academic degrees should not be the ultimate measure of competence in public service.

She passionately defended her own lack of a university degree, highlighting the importance of integrity and practical knowledge over formal qualifications.

“I don’t need an academic degree to serve effectively,” Quinn-Williams said. “The Lord has granted me wisdom, and I seek knowledge daily. I value a degree of integrity far more than an academic one.”

The senator’s remarks came as she applauded government efforts to expand educational access but warned that degrees alone do not guarantee societal equity or efficient governance.

“If having degrees equated to good governance, this country wouldn’t be facing so many challenges despite the numerous degree holders,” she contended.

Quinn-Williams also pushed back against what she described as excessive emphasis on academic credentials, citing examples of influential leaders who succeeded without university qualifications.

“Some of the most transformational leaders this country has known had no degrees, but they possessed love for the people and unimpeachable integrity,” she added.

Her statements sparked responses from other senators, with some expressing concern about her suggestion that certain degrees may have been obtained dishonestly.

Senate President intervened, cautioning Quinn-Williams against making unsubstantiated claims and urging her to focus on evidence-based arguments.

“Implying improper practices without facts undermines the integrity of this honorable house,” the President stated.

Quinn-Williams later withdrew the contentious remarks but maintained her position on the value of ethical leadership.

“Until we prioritize the highest degree of integrity as the most important qualification, we will continue to face issues of cacistocracy and kleptocracy,” she said.

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