Undisputedly, 75 years by any measure is a long time to survive. Institutions like schools don't just die with time. They continue to extend longevity with posterity providing invaluable knowledge to those placed in their guardianship.
Undisputedly, 75 years by any measure is a long time to survive. Institutions like schools don't just die with time. They continue to extend longevity with posterity providing invaluable knowledge to those placed in their guardianship.
This year my Alma Mater celebrates its Diamond Jubilee - another milestone in its existence. We are proud of all its accomplishments. From its humble beginnings at the top floor of St. Gerard's Hall with only a baker's dozen in attendance, its roll has increased significantly to the current 430. Thus, the physical structure itself had to expand to accommodate its increasing numbers.
Over these years many prominent men from Government ministers to famous musicians, businessmen, priests, Christian Brothers and Pastors, to name a generous few, have walked down the corridors of this illustrious educational institute.
Dr. D.O.N. McIntyre, a distinguished alumnus and the school's first Island Scholar of 1942, wrote in his 50th Anniversary message, "This is a great time for all of us but particularly for those who conceived the idea of starting the school. Everyone who has had anything to do with bringing it to life and rearing it thus far must be proud. The SMA now holds a place of respect in our community. It is my expectation that the celebrations will do much to stimulate an awareness of the contributions to the development of Dominica by SMA graduates - a source of justifiable pride for the school, for a short but distinguished history has made it one of the most illustrious educational institutions of Dominica."
Twenty-five later, on S.M.A's 75th Anniversary, those accolades from the medical Doctor can still be utilized to describe SMA. The school continues to make gigantic strides in the education process of young men. Its curriculum has improved a hundredfold to match the metamorphosis of time.
On behalf of the Catholic Schools Board, Administration, staff and students, I wish the school all the success possible for its future development.
Mr. Cuthbert Elwin
Principal, Saint Marys Academy.