Two former professors have been commended by the Bermuda College for their “exceptional service and dedication”.

Craig Simmons and Frederick Ming were bestowed with professor emeritus titles — the first to receive the honour from the college.

The recommendation came during the institution’s 50th anniversary gala last Saturday at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

The event, attended by 260 guests, paid tribute to alumni, employees and past leaders who shaped the college’s legacy.

Mr Simmons said: “For some reason, I just found teaching enjoyable and it got more so the more I taught.

“What do I enjoy most about it? Meeting young people, being in the presence of people who are generally smarter than yourself.

“And so, I would come to class to teach, but also to learn. And I can't say that I ever left a class without learning something from my students.

“Education is really about building up this thing called social capital, which will allow young people and folks from low socio-economic backgrounds to be better in life.”

Mr Simmons, who retired from the college last year, said the college distinguished itself as a game-changer when it came to building social capital.

He said: “There hasn't been an institution in Bermuda that has moved more people from the position of a low socio-economic status to a higher socio-economic status.

“Bermuda College has given Bermuda a great gift, and we need to continue to support the institution.”

Mr Ming, who taught culinary arts for 29 years at the college, was honoured for his transformative role in shaping hospitality education on the island.

He admitted that the award caught him by surprise.

He added: “I was excited, I was really excited, and it was nice that people approached me afterwards and told me that I deserved it.”

Nasir Wade, chairman of the board of Bermuda College, said the event was “testimony to the hard work and dedication of our collective unity towards a common goal, based on the uplifting of people and communities”.

He added: “This 50th anniversary celebration provides us with a moment in time to reflect on our past accomplishments, maintain steadfast on our present actions and lay the vision for the next 50 years of success.”

David Sam, the college president, said: “The goal is clear: to elevate Bermuda College to the next level of excellence, ensuring it remains the premier institution for learning, a hub for present and future tertiary education and a driving force behind Bermuda’s socio-economic growth.”

Necheeka Trott, the anniversary committee chairwoman, said: “This milestone celebration was a beautiful reflection of the heart and history of Bermuda College.

“Honouring those who have shaped the institution — and those who continue to carry its mission forward — reminds us of the incredible legacy we are building together.

“It was an evening of pride, gratitude and inspiration.”