Jamaican Educator Dr. Darien Green: A Tribute to a Lifelong Educator
Hundreds Honor Entrepreneur Darien Green at Maryland Memorial Service
TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Hundreds of mourners gathered Sunday at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church to celebrate the life and legacy of Jamaican-born educator, entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Darien Antonio Green. His decades-long contributions to higher education, business, music and community development left a lasting impact in the United States and Jamaica.
Paying Tribute to Darien Green
Family members, former students, business leaders, members of the Jamaican diaspora and diplomatic representatives filled the church to pay tribute to Green. He was a longtime professor at the University of the District of Columbia and a respected community leader known for mentoring generations of students and entrepreneurs.
The service included official citations from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. These citations recognized Green’s contributions to education, business and community development.
Born in Leith Hall, St. Thomas, Jamaica, Green earned a scholarship to Howard University after distinguishing himself academically and athletically at Excelsior High School. He later spent more than 30 years teaching accounting and finance at the University of the District of Columbia. At the same time, he built a successful career as an accountant and entrepreneur.
Business and Community Development
Green also played a notable role in Jamaica’s cultural landscape. He helped establish the business foundation of the internationally known reggae group Third World as its first manager. Later, he became a founding investor and first general manager of Zanzibar on the Waterfront, a prominent multicultural entertainment venue in Washington.
His commitment to Jamaica remained constant throughout his life. Speakers noted his support for Excelsior High School. They also mentioned his early recognition of the talent of future West Indies fast-bowling star Courtney Walsh.
Citation of Appreciation
A representative of the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington announced that Green will be posthumously recognized by the Jamaica Independence DMV Diaspora Awards Committee. He will receive a Citation of Appreciation during events marking Jamaica’s 64th anniversary of independence later this month.
