A philanthropic organisation has praised the “extraordinary dedication and significant contributions“ of a board member who has retired.

The Centennial Bermuda Foundation said that Dennis Tucker had been a part of it since its creation more than two decades ago.

Centennial is a private and independent organisation that funds non-profit projects, initiatives and postsecondary scholarships.

Mr Tucker has worn many hats while at Centennial, including chair of the Investment Committee and chair of the Scholarship Committee.

He has also taken on responsibilities on the Nominations and Governance Committee, and played a role on the Healthy Families Grants Review Committee.

In 2004, Mr Tucker assisted the foundation in its transition to independence from the Bank for Bermuda, and he remained a steadfast presence at various stages of Centennial’s transformation.

The foundation said that Mr Tucker was considered to be an integral member and will be greatly missed.

Tom Conyers, the chair of Centennial, said: “Centennial Bermuda Foundation and I personally have heartfelt gratitude for Dennis’s unwavering commitment to the foundation and I thank Dennis for his extraordinary dedication and significant contributions.

”I have relied on Dennis as many have before me. Not only was he there throughout the years, but he was also a leader for the organisation. He has provided us with important historical content and a very balanced view of the changes we’ve implemented.

“Dennis’s appreciation of the past and its complexities, and his focus on what we can do now and in the future, is so important in the work we do. His legacy will continue to inspire philanthropy in Bermuda.”

From 2008 to 2012, Mr Tucker served as a common councillor and alderman of the City of Hamilton. He was also in the Senate during the mid-1980s.

Regarded as a pivotal force in the tourism and hospitality sector, Mr Tucker was the first Black Bermudian to be appointed general manager of a hotel.

He also served on the Bermuda Employers Council, the Bermuda Hotel Association and as a Bank of Bermuda director.

After stepping out of hospitality, Mr Tucker served as chief executive of the Bermuda Hotel Employees Pension Plan.

In 2019, Mr Tucker was appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for services to the community.

In November, a retirement reception was hosted at the Bermuda National Gallery honouring his work.