WESTERN BUREAU:

FOUR OUTSTANDING members of the Montego Bay Community College (MBCC) family, who have kept that institution's engine oiled over the last 34 years, have been recognised for their unwavering commitment.

Wilbert Johnson, the longest-serving member of staff; Barbara Nelson, a woman dedicated to education; Dr Simon Clarke, the school's first board chairman and Giusseppi Maffessanti, whose ideas, expertise and efforts have been the backbone of MBCC, were honoured at an 'appreciation and retirement' function at the 34-year-old college, last week Thursday night in Montego Bay.

The school's principal Dr Angela Samuels-Harris, whose vision, tenacity and solid commitment have prepared the institution to take the country's tertiary-level education to the next level, was also honoured for her role in the paradigm shift.

Unforgettable personality

Johnson, described as a messenger extraordinaire, joined the institution in 1978, after spending three years as a mason on the construction of the facility.

"The thousands of students and the many members of all categories of staff with whom he interacted for these 36 years will always remember him fondly, as he has touched their lives through his generosity of spirit and professional approach to his work. Those who truly know him will recall his great sense of humour and sprightly gait and vigour, which made assigned tasks seem easy," was the glowing citation that the school gave to Johnson.

For Nelson, who was presented with a cosy easy chair as a farewell gift, she will be remembered for her insightfulness and philanthropy, particularly in the development of the hospitality and creative studies programmes, which currently see the institution having the best hospitality laboratories in the island.

"We acknowledge your passion for the performing arts, and will ensure that your vision in this regard is maintained," read the citation.

In the case of Maffessanti, the institution's principal, Dr Samuels-Harris begged him not to retire anytime soon, noting that it was his continuous energy, crea-tivity, insight and willpower that laid the foundation for the expansion that was necessary to accommodate the burgeoning student population at a time when the college was growing exponentially.

The man who has played many parts and whose wealth of experience and general knowledge earned him the position of chairman of the board of management in 1984, Dr Clarke, was sent home with a magnificent sculpture, befitting his sterling contribution to the institution.

Credited with catapulting the school into its enviable position as the place of choice for tertiary education in western Jamaica, Dr Clarke's citation spoke to a man who selflessly gave his all.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com