Bahamas News
University of the Bahamas Gala Beats Half Million $ Target for Student Scholarships
#Bahamas, November 21, 2017 – Nassau – In a powerful statement about the community’s belief in the transformational impact of higher education, the University of The Bahamas President’s Gala Soirée has exceeded the anticipated fundraising target.
The inaugural event was the institution’s first major fundraiser since transitioning to University. The Soirée paired excellence with elegance as sponsors and donors joined the UB community at the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre. It was a celebration of student talent and potential. The occasion also commemorated the first anniversary of UB, chartered on 10thNovember 2016.
UB President Dr. Rodney D. Smith, who also observed the first anniversary of his inauguration as UB President, thanked the many corporate sponsors, donors, friends, alumni and UB constituents who helped to make the fundraiser overwhelmingly successful.
“We have exceeded the goal of $500,000 in cash and pledges for the endowed scholarship fund to support first-generation University students. These funds will benefit and change the lives of thousands of students, and by extension, families and entire communities. This is the beginning of the next phase in the growth and development of the Bahamian people, through access to education,” noted Dr. Smith.
Major sponsors for the Gala included Aliv, Sharon Wilson & Co., IL Cares, Doctors Hospital, Ernst & Young, Credit Suisse and New Providence Development Company Ltd.
While celebrating the success of the Soirée, President Smith nonetheless invited private and corporate donors to continue supporting UB.
“The University still needs the generous support of all corporate donors. Our goal is to raise this endowed fund to well over $5M. We cannot do this without the annual contributions of alumni, sponsors, donors and the many friends of the University. Please continue to give to the University and give as generously as you can. One donation will change a life and a community,” Dr. Smith pointed out.
Student Government Association (SGA) President Stuart Hanna was also pleased that corporate and private donors are supporting student scholarships.
“As a result of a successful Soirée, capable young Bahamians will be given an opportunity to obtain tertiary education at University of The Bahamas. These kinds of fundraising events bring immeasurable value to the advancement of the University, its students and the Bahamian society at large and show that the University is moving in the right direction,” said Mr. Hanna.
Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Affairs Ms. Davinia Blair said that the level of partnership and support from corporate Bahamas for the Soirée was encouraging as the institution becomes a stronger University.
PGS-Damian Blackburn Toast
“The overwhelming demonstration of support by faculty, staff, alumni, corporate partners and friends at the Gala truly touched the hearts of many, in particular our students, who will benefit from the endowment. I am grateful for the stellar partnership with Fusion IMC and Events by Alexandra to accomplish this feat. Also, I am thankful to all of our donors and am confident of a promising path ahead for our nation,” Ms. Blair asserted.
Release: BIS
Photo captions
Header & 3rd insert: PGS-Harry C. Moore Library – The Harry C. Moore Library & Information Centre at UB’s Oakes Field Campus was transformed into an elegant enclave. 1st insert: PGS-President’s comments – UB President Dr. Rodney D. Smith addresses the guests.
PGS-Cake Cutting – Sir Franklyn Wilson and Sharon Lady Wilson joined Dr. Christina Ramirez Smith and Dr. Rodney D. Smith to commemorate the first anniversary of the charter of UB at the President’s Gala Soiree held on 11th November 2017.
3rd insert: PGS-Damian Blackburn Toast – Mr. Damian BlackBurn of Aliv, one of the main sponsors of the soirée, offered a toast at the event.
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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