The president of the College of Insurance in New York on Friday commended Bermudian students for their "leadership and academic performance''.

The praise of college president Dr. Ellen Thrower followed a ceremony which saw the first graduates of the College's Bermuda MBA programme, which was established in 1995, recognised for completing their studies.

ACE Bermuda vice president Mark Lima was awarded a medal for achieving the highest academic standing in the course's commencement exercises.

He joined 18 other Bermuda-based professionals in graduating from the college at the ceremony last week where the Island's contingent took many of the major awards.

Dr. Thrower said both the leadership and academic performance of Bermudians at the College had been outstanding this year.

"At both the undergraduate and graduate levels, their degree of dedication and achievement has been impressive. And we look forward to having many more Bermuda students study at the college,'' she said.

Undergraduate valedictorian was Shanna Tyrell and recipient of the Eugene A.

Toale Outstanding Senior Award was Leah Richardson.

ACE employees Edmina Bradshaw, Judy Gonsalves and Sarah Young also made the grade at the ceremony in New York in Friday.

ACE chairman, president and CEO Brian Duperreault -- who serves as a board member of the College of Insurance -- attended the ceremony and complimented the graduates on their hard work.

"Congratulations to the ACE staff who completed the MBA programme at the college this year,'' he said yesterday.

"They are each valued members of our company who contribute greatly to the development of our business around the world.

"Congratulations also to the large number of Bermudians who completed courses. The highest levels of education are vital if the insurance industry in Bermuda is to build on its reputation for both innovation and integrity.

"The effort these students have put into increasing their knowledge and skills in our industry is very much appreciated.'' The College of Insurance will begin accepting applications in July for the next Bermuda MBA class which should begin in spring next year.

AWARD AWD