Simmons & Ming Receive Awarded Emeritus Title Two distinguished former lecturers — Craig Simmons and Frederick E. Ming — have become the first recipients of the Professor Emeritus title at Bermuda College in honour of their exceptional service and dedication to the institution. A spokesperson said, “Craig Simmons and Frederick E. Ming were awarded the title during a special presentation at the College’s 50th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club. “More than 260 guests attended the event, which paid tribute to alumni, employees, and past leaders whose contributions have shaped the College’s legacy.” In a recorded message played at the gala, Mr Simmons said: “For some reason I just found teaching enjoyable and it got more so the more I taught. Dr. David Sam, the Bermuda College President, Shelby Weldon – a member of the Board of Bermuda College, Frederick E. Ming – who received a Professor Emeritus award, and Nasir Wade – the chair of the Board of Bermuda College “What do I enjoy most about it? Meeting young people, being in the presence of people who are generally smarter than yourself. “And so, I would come to class to teach, but also to learn. And I can’t say that I ever left a class without learning something from my students. “Education is really about building up this thing called social capital, which will allow young people and folks from low socioeconomic backgrounds to be better in life.” Mr. Simmons, who retired from the College last year, added: “Bermuda College distinguishes itself as being the premier institution when it comes to building social capital. “There hasn’t been an institution in Bermuda that has moved more people from the position of a low socioeconomic status to a higher socioeconomic status. “Bermuda College has given Bermuda a great gift, and we need to continue to support the institution.” Dr. David Sam, the Bermuda College President, Shelby Weldon – a member of the Board of Bermuda College, Craig Simmons – who received a Professor Emeritus award, and Nasir Wade – the chair of the Board of Bermuda College The spokesperson said, “The award was a surprise for Mr Ming, who taught culinary arts for 29 years and who was honoured for his transformative role in shaping Bermuda’s hospitality education. “He said his son told him to make sure he attended and added that it was great to get recognition of his work.” On when his name was called, Mr Ming said: “I was excited, I was really excited, and it was nice that people approached me afterwards and told me that I deserved it.” In his programme notes, Nasir Wade, the chairman of the board of Bermuda College said the Gala celebration was “testimony to the hard work and dedication of our collective unity towards a common goal, based on the uplifting of people and communities”. He added: “This 50th anniversary celebration provides us with a moment in time to reflect on our past accomplishments, maintain steadfast on our present actions and lay the vision for the next 50 years of success.” In his programme notes, the College President, Dr David Sam added: “The goal is clear: to elevate Bermuda College to the next level of excellence, ensuring it remains the premier institution for learning, a hub for present and future tertiary education, and a driving force behind Bermuda’s socio-economic growth.” Necheeka Trott, the 50th Anniversary Gala Committee Chair, added: “This milestone celebration was a beautiful reflection of the heart and history of Bermuda College. Honouring those who have shaped the institution — and those who continue to carry its mission forward — reminds us of the incredible legacy we are building together. “It was an evening of pride, gratitude, and inspiration.” The spokesperson said, “Those also honoured at the Gala were: Craig Simmons who was also presented with the Bermuda College Distinguished Service Award [Faculty]. Marie Franklin, who was given the Bermuda College Distinguished Service Award [Support Staff]. Alumni Taiyana Allen, a distinguished Bermudian professional currently serving as an actuarial analyst at Wilton Re Bermuda. Alumni Andesha Busby, a Designate Valuer at the Land Valuation Department, in the Bermuda Government. Alumni Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour. Alumni Beza Dagnachew, a dedicated healthcare professional, educator, and infection prevention specialist at Bermuda Hospitals Board. Alumni Gino Z. Smith, a respected leader in the reinsurance industry, known for his expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to developing future talent. Alumni Dr Leslie Steede, the owner and director of research at Global Research. Alumni Dr Malcolm V. Brock, a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon, researcher, and academic, recognised as one of the first Bermudian-born cardiovascular surgeons to achieve US board certification. Alumni Larry Mussenden, the Chief Justice of Bermuda. Alumni Dr Terrylynne Emery, Bermuda’s first Black female practicing obstetrician/gynaecologist. Alumni Rees Fletcher, a distinguished insurance executive whose 33-year career has significantly impacted Bermuda’s international business sector. Past President Dr Duranda Greene a trailblazing leader and Bermuda College’s longest-serving President. Past President Dr George L. Cooke, whose leadership and academic contributions played a pivotal role in shaping Bermuda College’s Faculty of Arts & Science. Past CEO, Mansfield H. Brock, a well-known and distinguished Bermudian educator and administrator whose leadership was instrumental in the establishment and development of Bermuda College.” #AwardWinners #BermudaCollege #Education #GoodNews Category: All, News