Chris Fernandes honoured for long service to St Stanislaus College
Christopher Fernandes, who has been the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the St Stanislaus College for the past 15 years, was on Tuesday evening honoured by members of the school’s Canadian alumni association for his long-standing service to the school.
The 76-year-old, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of John Fernandes Ltd., was presented with a piece of artwork done by distinguished Guyanese artist, Stanley Greaves. The piece, called ‘El Dorado’s Mirror’, is part of a series of exhibition that was on show at the OAS Gallery in Washington DC as part of Guyana’s Republic anniversary celebration.
The simple, yet significant event which was held at the company’s Water Street Office in Georgetown, was also attended by President of Guyana, Dr Irfaan Ali, who is also a former student of the college. In his acceptance speech, Fernandes said the event came as a surprise.
“I am happy to receive something of Stanley’s work, but to have the President here is the icing on the cake and I like icing. I really appreciate the President taking the time to be here,” Fernandes said.
As a former student of the school, Fernandes has been serving and giving back to ensure the school uphold its distinguished standard of excellence. But this did not just start with Fernandes as his father, John Fernandes, actually organised the Old Boys Association to raise funds for the school.
Fernandes was also appointed a member of the school’s Farm Committee and later the chairman of the committee some 42 years ago; he continues to hold this post today. According to Fernandes, the school’s farm is capable of generating some $5 million per year and this is used to assist in the school’s development.
Fernandes also introduced hockey at the school in the 1970s and moulded a successful team which won all competitions locally. In 2005, he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Governors.
Meanwhile, President Ali assured the school of his support and stated that the Fernandes family has made tremendous contributions to Guyana’s development. The President said that the recognition on Tuesday was well deserved.
“The difference between Saints and many other schools is that when you exit Saints, you exit as a well-rounded individual. It tells a story of an institution that was supported, a pillar of that support is Chris Fernandes,” the President noted.
Christopher Fernandes is the recipient of the Golden Arrow of Achievement (A.A.) and the Cacique Crown of Honour.
The Head of State and several other former members of the school, including Fernandes’s son David, were joined via Zoom by members of the Toronto Association for the presentation.