WASHINGTON DC – Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson, has hailed the enduring contribution of The Mico University College and its alumni. He described the institution as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s educational development and national character.
Mico Alumni Association New York Chapter Gala
Delivering the keynote address at the Mico Old Students’ Association New York Chapter gala at the Glen Terrace in Brooklyn, New York, Ambassador Anderson praised the association. The event celebrated the organization’s 51st anniversary on Sunday, May 17. He praised the association for decades of service to Jamaica through scholarships, mentorship, and support for students.
Addressing an audience of alumni and supporters, Ambassador Anderson commended the association’s commitment to nation-building. In addition, he noted that generations of Mico graduates have made significant contributions not only in education, but across many professional fields worldwide.
“For 51 years, you have been supporting many young people who have gone on to do great things,” Anderson said. “Wherever Jamaicans go, communities benefit significantly from having us there, because we build and strengthen the communities in which we live.”
The Ambassador spoke passionately about the strong sense of pride and identity shared among “Miconians,” noting that alumni continue to carry the values and traditions of the institution throughout their lives and careers.
He encouraged the organization to continue involving younger graduates. This ensures that the institution’s legacy and traditions are passed on to future generations.
“There is a need to strengthen the connection between younger Jamaicans overseas and Jamaica,” he said. He pointed to a growing interest among members of the diaspora in reclaiming Jamaican citizenship and reconnecting with their roots.
Changing Landscape of Education
Ambassador Anderson also reflected on the changing landscape of education, driven by advances in technology, artificial intelligence, and global connectivity. He said institutions such as Mico must continue adapting in order to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world.
“Education is changing. Schools are becoming places not mainly for the transfer of knowledge, but for social development and critical thinking,” he stated. “The challenge is to ensure our young people are prepared to leverage the opportunities that new technologies present.”
Upcoming Technology Summit
He pointed to an upcoming technology summit with Mico and major global tech firms. It includes Microsoft and Google. He said this shows the institution is preparing to meet future education needs.
Ambassador Anderson emphasized the importance of discipline, standards and character formation in education, qualities he said have long defined Mico-trained teachers.
He recalled influential teachers from his own childhood. Especially those who helped shape not only his academic development but also his character and worldview.
“The teachers we remember most are not only the ones who transferred knowledge, but those who impacted our character and exposed us to things beyond the classroom,” he said.
The Ambassador also paid tribute to legendary educators associated with Mico, including former principal Renford Shirley. He described Shirley as a guardian of education standards. He said only committed and capable people should become teachers.
Continued Service and Philanthropy
Ambassador Anderson congratulated the association for its continued service and philanthropy, including assistance provided to Jamaica following the passage of Hurricane Melissa last year. “You are writing the story for future generations,” he told the gathering. “The work you continue to do in giving back to Jamaica is invaluable.”
The Mico University College Alumni Association – New York Chapter (MOSA-NY) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It is dedicated to bringing together past students of The Mico in the US, supporting their alma mater in Jamaica, and funding community scholarships.
