Legacy in Motion: Honoring Dr. Joseph Lloyd Tait (Class of ’53) at Jamaica College
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Legacy in Motion: Honoring Dr. Joseph Lloyd Tait (Class of ’53) at Jamaica College
The evening unfolded with precision and purpose, on time and on point, setting the tone for an event that would blend reverence, reflection, and celebration.
Opening & Invocation
Principal Wayne Robinson opened the proceedings with measured authority, grounding the audience in the significance of the moment. A solemn and centering invocation followed, delivered by Rev. Canon Michael Allen, whose words reminded all present of the deeper purpose behind service and giving.
National Anthem
Mr. Ian Andrews led a stirring rendition of the National Anthem, steady, proud, and unifying, bringing the room to a collective pause of national pride.
Welcome & Context
Board Chairman Lance Hylton delivered an effusive welcome to Dr. Tait, framing his contribution not just as generous, but as visionary. He underscored a critical distinction: Dr. Tait did not simply give. He engineered sustainability, ensuring that impact would endure well beyond the moment.
STEAM Impact Presentation
Mrs. Shanille Bennett-Edwards, Dean of Studies, brought the receipts. With clarity and conviction, she demonstrated how Dr. Tait's investment has tangibly shifted the student-teacher engagement dynamic. STEAM is no longer aspirational at JC. It is embedded, operational, and transformative.
Tribute: Student Perspective
School Captain Lejoux Choung offered a thoughtful overview of Dr. Tait's journey and accomplishments, presenting him not just as a benefactor, but as a blueprint of excellence for current and future JC men.
Tribute: Institutional Perspective
Mr. Lowell Campbell, Trustee and Board Director and JCOBA-NY Advisory Board Chairman, delivered a deeply personal reflection. He distilled Dr. Tait into three simple truths: "he says what he means, means what he says, and does what he says."
Importantly, Mr. Campbell also announced a forward-looking commitment: the JCOBA New York Chapter will make an annual contribution from its signature fundraising event (The Griffin Awards) toward sustaining Dr. Tait's STEAM Infusion investment, ensuring that the vision remains alive, funded, and future-proofed.
Video Tribute
A video tribute by Mr. Jacob Khotoveli, CEO of JBL Asset Management, LLC, added another dimension, personal, heartfelt, and deeply respectful. His words spoke to Dr. Tait's roles as friend, mentor, and philanthropist, layering public impact with private character.
Reflections: Dr. Joseph Lloyd Tait
In his reflections, Dr. Tait brought the room full circle. Drawing from humble beginnings, he traced a life journey that has now returned to its source: his alma mater.
With characteristic humility and wit, he redirected praise away from himself and toward the mission. He expressed sincere gratitude to Jacob Khotoveli for ideating the event, sponsoring the commemorative plaque, and previously contributing $30,000 during the COVID-19 period, a gesture that spoke volumes in a time of uncertainty.
More profoundly, he challenged the audience to look beyond the ceremony. Recognition fades. Impact endures when it is carried forward collectively.
His call was clear: this is not about celebrating a man. It is about continuing a movement.
Unveiling of the Plaque
The unveiling was executed with crisp military precision by the Jamaica College Cadet Unit. In a disciplined sequence of commands and coordinated movement, the drape was removed with ceremonial exactness, drawing visible admiration from Dr. Tait and the audience alike. It was a moment of pomp, pride, and permanence.
Vote of Thanks
Mr. Carl Bennett, Immediate Past President and current Treasurer of JCOBA-NY, delivered a rousing and well-balanced vote of thanks, gracious, energetic, and fittingly reflective of the occasion.
Distinguished Attendees
The event was further elevated by the presence of:
Custos Ian Forbes – JC Trustee, Board Director, and JCOBA Jamaica Vice President
Dr. Dwight Williams – Past President, JCOBA-NY
Teachers, staff, and senior students, including the most recent Tait Scholar Justin Phinn
Old Boys including Dr. Audley Harris, Lawrence Madden, and Barrington Minott
Acknowledgements
Special recognition goes to Mrs. Erica Barrett-Smith, whose behind-the-scenes leadership ensured flawless execution. From logistics to experience design, and culminating in sumptuous post-event refreshments, her touch was evident throughout.
Closing Reflection
This was more than an event. It was a signal moment. A convergence of vision, execution, and legacy. A reminder that true philanthropy is not measured by the size of the gift, but by the longevity of its impact.
Legacy in motion. Fervet Opus in Campis.
To learn more about the Tait STEAM Infusion Project and how you can be part of this legacy, please scan the QR code.
About JCOBA-NY:
Founded 36 years ago, the Jamaica College Old Boys Association of New York fosters a strong network of Old Boys dedicated to supporting each other and giving back to Jamaica and Jamaica College. Through events, mentorship, and various initiatives, JCOBA-NY continues to strengthen bonds and uphold the legacy of excellence.
Comments