The Bishops High School

Executive Committee

President
Terry Stuart
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 222-3006 (H)
621-8018, 629-0373 (C)

Vice President
Hazel Friday-Burrowes
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 627-6562 (C)

Immediate Past President
Andrea Owen
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 623-7600 (C)

Secretary
Andrea Bryan
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 614-1414 (C)

Treasurer
Dorett Leander
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 642-1428 (C)

Asstistant Secretary/Treasurer
Alethea Puranram
Email:
[email protected]
Tel: 642-1130 (C)

Committee Members
Gillian Butts-Garnett
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 646-1907 (C)

Donna Morrison
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 623-6254 (C)

Doreen Nelson
Email: [email protected]
Tel. 225-1735 (H)

Nkasi Nedd
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 667-2656 (C)

Staff Representative
Malkia Payne
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 646-2963 (C)

Woodside Representative
Jannice Simmons
Tel: 226-6236 (H)
Presidents Message
WHATSOEVER THY HAND FINDETH TO DO, DO IT WITH
THY MIGHT Ecclesiastes 9:10

Fellow alumni,

I am sure that at this time, our thoughts naturally turn to
Reunion 2008 and the fond memories we have of it. Our
sisters and brothers in Toronto had been working overtime
since August 2005 to host a spectacular Reunion linked to the
vibrant Caribbean Carnival Caribana.

At this end, we too had worked feverishly at our steel pans,
dance steps, debating skills and vocals. Our numbers from
Guyana exceeded 60. Once again, we were to be the largest
group there.

On a somber note, we were to bid farewell to Mrs. Isaacs-
Walcott, who retired as Headmistress at the end of July.
BHSOSA has enjoyed an excellent relationship with the
Headmistress during her tenure. We all wish her the very
best as she moves into a new sphere of life (which we hope
will include some kind of continued association with the
school).

I very reluctantly had to accept the resignation of our
treasurer Dorett Leander who is pursuing new avenues from
the end of July 2008. Dorett has been a meticulous and
efficient treasurer and member of the committee. We trust
that she will find the time once again to serve on the BHSOSA
executive.






TERRY STUART
President
BHSOSA (2007-2008)
I NSI DE
THI S I SSUE
Presidents
Message
1
Science Labs
Refurbished
2
Bishops Girl
Takes Student
Designer Crown
3
Reflections on
Reunion 2008:
Building on the
Legacy
4
Celebrate 2008:
The Reunion
Theme Song
7
Basking in the
Memories
8
BHS Student
for Leadership
Training
9
The Honour of
One
10
The Meaning of
BHS
10
Alumni among
2008 Guyana
Cultural
Association
Awardees
11
Condolences 11
bientt 12
BHSOSA
Chapters
12

J U N E , S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 8 V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
Science Labs Refurbished
The overseas chapters have done their part, well done...
Now its the locals turn to have the right people (teachers
& students alike) in place to value this gift and to maxi-
mize its use, they certainly did help me. Plus the memo-
ries in those labs were great and now its time for the cur-
rent and future students to make their own memories.
Well done all.

John M. Ramsingh B.Sc. (BIO)
Class of '98
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
Several years ago, many alumni were aghast on learning
that the science labs were in disrepair. Discussions began
on how these vaunted facilities could be restored to the
standards to which alumni were accustomed. Many could
not imagine a BHS education without science experiments
conducted in first-rate facilities and decided to roll up their
sleeves to raise the funds necessary to restore the labs.
The New York Tri-state Chapter undertook to refur-
bish the Biology Lab. They have enabled current students
to have the opportunity to dissect amphibians, rodents and
insects in style. Hopefully, there are still those students
who enjoy activities such as these and are willing to carry
out experiments for their friends who would rather drop
dead than touch any creepy crawlies.

Biology Lab































The Toronto, California, Washington, Barbados and
UK/Europe Chapters contributed to the refurbishment of
the Chemistry Lab. It is hoped that the budding scientists
will use the equipment, chemicals and other material as
intended and not create explosions as they try to make
discoveries at a tender age.

Chemistry Lab















The time has come for BHS to retain its young scien-
tists. It is expected that these new facilities (coupled with
the requisite teaching staff) will enable students to enter
the sixth form of the school to continue their studies in
science rather than finding it necessary to enroll in that
other school near the seawall.









Wendel Roberts remembers that one Friday afternoon
when the school had a half day, the 6
th
Form Zoology class
had to stay in to dissect a rat. They were quite happy to
deal with the rat, even on a half day. However, in the at-
tempt to tranfer the rat to the death chamber, the rodent
escaped and people like Judith Coggins were on the table
screaming while others like Wendel scampered out of the
lab!! That was the end of the dissection but not the end of
the class. Ms O'Jon found other work for them to do
discussing their marked assignments!
P A G E 2
Did You Know?
In 1960s, BHS hired three Sixth Form students
as Lab Assistants, one for each lab, rather than hiring
a full-time person. Among the Lab Assistants were
Elsie Grant (Croal) for Biology and Terry Cooper
(Stuart) for Physics.
They earned the grand sum of $48.00 per month!
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
Bishops Girl Takes Student Designer Crown Bishops Girl Takes Student Designer Crown Bishops Girl Takes Student Designer Crown Bishops Girl Takes Student Designer Crown
On her way to the top of the fashion world is 14-year-old Bishops High School student, Sharda Eligon,
who emerged the winner of the award, Cole Facts 2 Student Designer 2008. Sharda used this competition,
held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in July 2008, to display her skills and competencies as a young
designer.
In its second year, the competition was promoted by designer Michelle Cole-Rose and entrepreneur Nata-
sha Martindale and received support from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and
Sports. Students from 20 schools were invited to participate in the competition.
The first round of the competition involved 12 participants who created five pieces which were showcased
at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on May 9. After weeks of competition which required the participants to dis-
play their knowledge and skills before a panel of judges, the finalists were chosen. As a finalist, Sharda was
one of the crowd favourites.
Sharda described the opportunity to interact with other young designers as a learning experience. She
noted that she acquired sewing as well as social skills during the process. She also mentioned that when it
came to the competition, however, everybody was on edge.
Shardas designs reflected excellent choices of cut and colour. Sharda received monetary and design-
related prizes, including a one-year apprenticeship with designers, Michelle Cole and Trevor Rose, the couple
behind the label Facts and Roses. This will allow Sharda to hone her designing skills.
As a result of her involvement in the competition, Sharda was invited to participate in Carifesta X. In
preparation for this event, Sharda designed a costume to be featured at the apex on a pyramid during the
opening ceremony. She incorporated various aspects of Caribbean culture and life such as cricket, music,
the steel pan, flags, literature, Carifesta logos and palm trees.
Speaking about her inspiration, Sharda stated that this came from the environment around her. She said
that her ideas emerged from observing natural things such as shapes in the sky.
Shardas first experience of this kind came from participation in the Facts 1 Student Designer Competition
held some years ago.
In addition to her talents in the world of design, Sharda has demonstrated academic prowess and recogni-
tion of the value of education. She has maintained a 70% average during the school year. She would like to
be an astro-geologist and has found it easy to balance design and study since she likes them both.



Sharda One of Shardas designs Facts 2 Model showcasing a
redesigned Bishops High Male
Uniform: Shown during prelimi-
nary round in May 2008
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
P A G E 3
Reflections on Reunion 2008: Building on the Legacy
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
Getting Ready
The anticipation was great. Plan-
ning began in 2006. Yes, Id like to be
there. Then join the Box Hand.
Thats one sure way that youd be
ready financially to jump up and wave
when the time comes.
The Guyana Contingent took
preparation for participation in Reun-
ion 2008 quite seriously. Its members
encouraged others to come along,
wanting this to be the biggest and the
most representative of the spectrum
of BHS alumni descending on the host
chapter. After all, Toronto was offer-
ing more than the reunion. There was
Caribana and, of course, Last Lap Lime
to enjoy.
One of the big questions facing
potential participants was that of get-
ting a Canadian visa. While a number
of persons were already armed with a
visa, the majority had to cross that
hurdle. Most were happy to get the
green light and, thus, lower their level
of anxiety. A few, however, were dis-
appointed at being refused a visa.
There ended their dream of being a
part of the revelry.
As the time drew near, Reunion
Coordinator, Pat Gordon, had her
hands full keeping track of the reunio-
nites. We were leaving at different
times, using different routes. Some of
us were so excited that we hived off
without ensuring that Pat could track
us down if need be. But, as the saying
goes, alls well that ends well.
All but one who left home headed
for the reunion made it to Toronto.

Last Lap Lime
The first sightings took place at
Last Lap Lime. The BHS Alumni table
near the entrance to the Woodbridge
Fairgrounds was attended by smiling,
welcoming faces, plying BHSOSA and
Toronto Chapter wares. The first
shrieks were heard as people greeted
friends from near and far, ready to
make the big connect that foretold of
things to come the next day. Wan-
dering around the grounds were those
who chose to be in the mix as well as
those who had come reluctantly.
There were even a few alumni who
would skirt the reunion activities.
What is sure is that Last Lap Lime got
many in the mood for the celebrations
which began on Tuesday, August 5.

The Count Down
BHS Alumni and their guests took
the Fairmont Royal York Hotel by
storm. The hotel staff and their guests
could not believe their eyes and ears.
So many women and men flitting
around with their various accents, few
of which sounded as if they belonged
in Toronto, much less in this majestic
hotel in such numbers.
Questions such as Did you see so
and so? Have you seen so and so?
Whats your room number? When
and where should we meet? floated
around the lobby. Hugs and kisses,
mouths dropping open and the occa-
sional disconcerted alumni whose
plans for linking werent as firm as
theyd thought were evident in the
lobby, the elevators and the registra-
tion area.
Curious hotel guests decided to
seek answers. One couple could not
believe that this was a reunion of per-
sons who had attended high school in
the far off land of Guyana. The hus-
band remarked that he knew very few
people at his college reunion which, of
course, was nothing like this! The
poor guy and his wife stood in amaze-
ment observing these positive, pur-
poseful folks, seemingly always on the
move or huddled together.


The Welcome Reception
Despite the grumbles and mum-
bles, the Welcome Reception afforded
interaction within year groups as well
as across the ages and provided some
surprises. It was a pleasure to see
Mrs. Abdool far away from the room
above the staff annex where she man-
aged the second-hand book collection.
During the ceremony when presenta-
tions were made to teachers, Esther
Burrowes glided across the floor
beaming, despite the whispers that ill-
health had prevented her from attend-
ing the reunion. The Toronto Chap-
ter displayed one of the results of
their efforts to play hosts by launching
their composition, Celebrate 2008.

The Business Meeting
The Business meeting was one
with a difference. Since BHSOSA and
the Chapters had submitted their
reports for inclusion in the Reunion
Magazine, the meeting enabled presen-
tations on several topics, such as The
HUB, a website designed to foster
interaction among alumni, chapters
and the association; the proposal for
Guyanas involvement in a youth lead-
ership programme run by York Uni-
versity; and the presentation by Guy-
anas Honorary Consul, Danny Doo-
bay, who shared his vision of schools
in Guyana preparing students for the
technological age.
The School Hymn ends: May each
to each prove ever, True Comrade
and True Friend. The potency of this
sentiment was evident as an appeal for
support to Company 5 resulted in a
spontaneous donation of approxi-
mately US$1,600.00.
Negotiation, upstaging, contention,
concession and reconciliation were all
evident as the site of the next reunion
was discussed. The best laid plans can
come to nought when alliances are
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T P A G E 4
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
forged, loud voices are sounded, sev-
eral angles of a situation are consid-
ered and determination is evident.
The final decision? Reunion 2008 is
set for Jamaica, the new kid on the
block. The Jamaica Chapter can rest
assured that assistance will be available
from near and far. We are, after all,
one big family!

The Cruise
The Wear Something White
Luncheon Cruise was much antici-
pated. Under threatening skies,
groups headed to the port by taxi or
on foot, some anticipating a great dis-
tance to travel and others venturing
out in footwear which presented a
challenge on the sidewalk and then on
the gravel near the tracks which was
unwelcoming of pedestrians. In time,
alumni and guests boarded the
Empress of Canada for a sail on Lake
Ontario.
Tables were rapidly secured by
groups, leaving some souls no option
but to head for the top deck. This
spot turned out to be a popular place
as it was the site of the bar, closest to
the music and the venue for gyrating,
jumping and jollification.
As we sailed along the water,
there was a shout, Look so-and-so
over there! Believe it or not, a poor
soul had boarded the wrong vessel
and could only look across at the hip-
swaying comrades across the way.
Reminiscent of Guyana in days of
yore, lines were ever present. Lines
to board the vessel, lines for food ser-
vice, lines to disembark.
The camaraderie continued.
The Great Debate
For those who experienced a day
on the water, followed by shopping/
liming and dinner or seized the time
for another rehearsal, the Great De-
bate was a hard choice. It was antici-
pated by many and proved to be a
source of unexpected (and unin-
tended?) entertainment.
The Great Debate faced chal-
lenges from the outset. Fielding teams
was anything but straightforward. In
the end, on team comprised chapter
members and an associate member
from as far away as Australia.
Another team, called Guyana, com-
prised two personsone from Guy-
ana, one from Barbados, with one per-
son playing the role of two. Guess
what? The Guyana team uplifted the
Trophy after a valiant effort at pre-
senting the moot: Resolved that a
BHS education effectively prepares
students for both nationhood and
world citizenship.
Congratulations Team Guyana!

Executive Meeting
The Executive Meeting decided
that the venue for the international
reunions will be by the Executive at
reunions, the International Committee
will be activated and the Chapters will
provide financial support for the
engagement of a counsellor for BHS.

The Cultural Evening
The many hours spent conceptual-
izing the presentation for the Cultural
Evening, rehearsing the performance
often without the full complement of
artistes, discussion of the costumes,
expression of disdain at the cost of
the outfits, fine tuning the voices, ad-
justing the stage presence, Oh, where
is the banner? were worth the effort
for the Guyana contingent. The pres-
entation of pan, dance, song and
poetry was well received.

The Chapters pulled out all the
stops to provide a showcase of talent.
Floridas depiction of a Chapter meet-
ing showed the importance of food to
the proceedings. Torontos street
scene, with the refrain, Ya tink ah
mad! had us in stitches. Jamaicas
Jean Small in her school uniform,
knees exposed, recalled the experi-
ence of a childs concerns. Barbados
executives took to the stages with
their flavour of scenes from BIM.
New York displayed some of the
many things the city had to offer. The
statuesque Lady Liberty resplendent
in her garb with torch held aloft com-
plemented the leg-lifting dancers.
Guest artistes included Aunty
Comesee and Monty Hamer. The
programme was chaired by MC The
Crooner Bill Newman who kept the
audience in an uproar with his stories.
Remember The Purse?
The cultural extravaganza was a
fitting way to continue the euphoria
which was in the air. For some per-
sons, this was the first/only event in
which they participated, allowing the
reconnections to continue.

Its Dinner Time
The evening was one of gowns,
glitches and glee. The good intentions
of the hosts to manage the seating
arrangements proved a major chal-
lenge. Once the decision was made to
allow open seating, the mood changed
for the better.
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
Reflections on Reunion 2008 (Contd)
P A G E 5
P A G E 6 L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
Reflections on Reunion 2008 (Contd)
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
The School Tie Gala, attended by
over 800 persons, was less about the
meal which was superb and more about
the fun of togetherness and frolic on
the dance floor. It afforded class/year
groups and Chapters a chance to
record their presence in official photo-
graphs.
The dance floor was rocking from
the word, Go! This continued up to
the last strains of And ah nah going
home til de morning come. And ah nah
going home til ah see de sun!

The Commemoration Service
This was a time for
reflection on the
weeks activities and on
school days long gone.
To witness the talents
of our own alumni as
they played active roles
in the service was hum-
bling but also a proud moment.
As with other Commemoration
Services, tears flowed as emotions
welled in many bosoms. That bond
forged among BHS alumni was
strengthened as together we lifted our
voices to sing the words of our school
hymn which are ingrained our cellular
memory.

Farewell Reception
The mood was a bit sombre after
the Commemoration Service. Several
persons opted to return to the hotel
while many others stepped across the
road to the venue of the final event.
Some aching knees trudged up two
flights of stairs while others said, Ill
wait for the elevator. Their owners
were greeted with a lovely sight - an ice
sculpture celebrating Reunion 2008.
We continued to recognize more
faces which we had missed earlier and
pledged to stay in touch with class-
mates, relatives and friends.

Souvenirs and Things
The Registration Package contained
material which will certainly stimulate
memories of Reunion 2008. Couched
in an attractive red and black bag, the
Reunion Magazine, pen, personalized
note pads, post-it notes and essential
bits and pieces indicated how much
thought and effort had been invested in
working to ensure that participants
were well equipped for the days ahead.
Tucked in the East Wing of the
hotel was the Shoppe which allowed
groups and individuals to ply their
wares. The ever-present polo shirts
and T-shirts attracted much attention.
Authors found this a cosy place to
tempt others with their literary pro-
ductions.
On and Off the Bus
(by Penny Franklin)
A highlight during the reunion was
certainly my trip to Niagara Falls! Get-
ting on the right bus required a lot of
persistence and ingenuity and that early
in the morning! But I succeeded and
was in the bus which was making the
scenic tour. It was lovely weather and
the ride to the falls went by quickly as
it was spent chatting with my fellow
passengers.
The view of the falls was terrific,
especially after getting out of the bus
and seeing the falls from close by. But
not only the natural elements of the
scenery were overwhelming, the build-
ings and landscaping really impressed
me. After some hours spent admiring
the falls, doing some shopping and hav-
ing a look at the enormous casino, I got
back on the bus and then we were
driven around the area to see the falls
from different places. It was a wonder-
ful trip which I fully enjoyed.












Penny Franklin with
Jennifer Jackson & a Mountie
P A G E 7
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
CHORUS

Celebrate two thousand and eight!
Toronto, here we come!
B.H.S. days cant done!
R-0-8, its gonna be great!
We welcome evryone -
Business and plenty fun!

Out of our history, we have a legacy
Of working with diligence
And playing with excellence.
It was there we learned how to live,
And its here we come back to give.
Bishops Highthe pride of her land -
Join with us to lend her a hand.

Repeat CHORUS

Those who were there before,
They opened up the door:
They taught us what we should know
And showed us the way to grow.
Let us praise the work of their hands.
Let us take this time to say, Thanks!
Hail to you and all who are gone.
Through our lives you are shining on!

Repeat CHORUS

Now, as we celebrate,
Lets all co-operate,
Planting the fruitful seeds
That our Alma Mater needs.
We must strive, with all of our might,
To ensure our school is all right.
Bishops High, in all that we do,
We must say, All kudos to you!

Repeat CHORUS

Six lovely days have flown.
We must be heading home.
But, though we go away,
The memorys here to stay!
From this day, our mandate will be,
Go and build on your legacy.
Bishops High will never depart
From her place in evryones heart!

CHORUS 2

Celebrate two thousand and eight!
We have to shout it lour:
Toronto made us proud!
R-0-8 was certainly great.
(Toronto sings)
We thank you, evryone,
We hope you had some fun.
(Everyone else sings)
We thank you, evryone,
Yes, we had lots of fun!
(ALL)
Farewell to evryone,
Now de Reunion done!
Celebrate 2008: The Reunion Theme Song
Guyana Groove!
As is now customary, the Guyana contingent to
Reunion 2008 met at the home of Donna Ram-
sammy-James to continue the reunion high. The
reunionites shared photographs and memories amid
the ever-present waist-bites and brews. After
improvisation with the screen (a sheet), adjustment
of the projector (the one Im accustomed to isnt
like this) and manipulation with the cord (theres
a point over here), Terry showed the photographs
sent by Beverly Barker. That allowed some persons
to realize that particular persons were at the reun-
ion. It was with regularity that someone said, I
didnt know that so-and-so was there. This led to
comments such as: Yes, she was sitting at the
table with Mavis at the Business Meeting, We
spent a lot of time together, and I saw her at the
Commemoration Service for the first time.
The reunionites learnt about some of the activi-
ties of the class/year gatherings and the excitement
these generated. They also reflected on the experi-
ence and identified areas where different
approaches could have led to greater efficiency and
satisfaction, indicating that these ideas could be of
benefit to the hosts of future reunions. These
included:
Access to a listing of participants and their loca-
tion to facilitate contact;
Wider publicity of the location of the shoppe
and the opening hours;
More opportunity for discussion of school-
related issues during the business meeting;
Reunion of shorter duration.
The gathering learnt that concern was
expressed about the welfare of the students. As a
result, Chapters have agreed to contribute to the
engagement of counselor. This will be discussed
with the school administration and the Ministry of
Education.
The pan players have decided to continue devel-
oping their skills and to offer the opportunity to
others to join the steelband. The steelband is now
a permanent feature of BHSOSA, one which allows
alumni to benefit directly. Rest assured that in
addition to increased adeptness in beating pan,
benefits include camaraderie, commitment and
mental exercise!
2011 is just around the corner. Reunionites
were reminded of the chance to prepare for Jamaica
by throwing box hand. This has worked well in
the past for many.


V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
Basking in the Memories
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T P A G E 8
About the Programme
In 1999, the York University Emerging Global Lead-
ers Programme (EGLP) was first offered to full-time
students of the university. It has been expanded to
include a version for high-school students from Ontario
and an international version. That international version
was inaugurated in 2004 as the Scotiabank - York Uni-
versity Emerging Global Leaders Programme and of-
fered the opportunity for local high school students in
Barbados to acquire leadership skills. The international
programme has now been extended to include high
school students from other Caribbean countries.
The international programme takes the form of a 2-
day retreat during which several workshops are held,
with attention being paid to cross-cultural communica-
tion and team building. It addresses concepts such as
goal setting and success and enables students to reflect
on their strengths and areas for growth. It exposes
the students to the knowledge and skills of profession-
als and experts from business, academia, government
and the private sector.
The EGLP is designed as a co-curricular activity to
outline the benefits and challenges of leadership in a
global context and provides an opportunity for partici-
pants to integrate their academic study with their
knowledge, skills and attitudes whilst putting this into
practice among their peers and within their communi-
ties.
The EGLP also prepares participants to think about
leadership critically by exposing the participants to a
variety of perspectives, theories and leadership-related
activities. This programme is neither the beginning nor
the end of the participants development, but is seen as
one step in the lifelong learning process, providing value
to both the participant and society as a whole.

Guyanas First
Prudence Julien, Form 4 Arts student of the Bish-
ops High School, has been selected by senior staff
members of the school to attend the EGLP in St. Kitts
from October 17 to 20. Members of the Bishops High
School Old Students Association (BHSOSA) in collabo-
ration with its California, New York Tri-State, South
Florida, Toronto, UK/Europe and Washington Chapters
have covered the cost for the airline tickets and addi-
tional accommodation needed due to travel constraints
out of Guyana. Prudence will be chaperoned by former
Headmistress, Elizabeth Isaacs-Walcott.
Initially Guyana was not included in the list of par-
ticipating countries. However, at the intervention of
Tamaisha Eytle, daughter of President of the Jamaica
Chapter, Sarah Eytle, and after correspondence with
the Coordinator, Craig Wright, Guyana (through the
Bishops High School) was added.
In 2010, there will be a follow-up programme to as-
sess the progress of these participants.

Andrea Bryan
V O L U M E 2 , N U M B E R S 1 & 2
BHS Student for Leadership Training
L A B O R O M N I A V I N C I T
P A G E 9
Scenes from
Fun Day 2008



Young ones queue for entry
On the catwalkbottles?
A guestall smiles
Han Granger-Gaskin (1st
Form 1981), Athina Gaskin
(1st Form 2007),
Vidyaratha Kissoon (1st
Form 1981)
Gem Scott-Fletcher,
Iris Chang-Yen
Beharry, Janice
Jackson (1st Form
1960)
Dorett
Leander
The Chit
Lady!
The Honour of One
Desiree Patricia Bernard (1950-57; Mary House)
The announcement of the conferment of the status of Honorary
Doctor of Laws on Justice Desiree Patricia Bernard was unexpected
but certainly welcome to many who are associated with her. Members
of BHSOSA were pleased and certainly deem it to be well-deserved.
The Alumni have noted the many successes of her career as she had
moved from solicitor to magistrate to judge to Chief Justice to Chan-
cellor of the Judiciary and recently to Judge on the Caribbean Court
of Justice.
The Award was conferred on Justice Bernard on November 3 at
the 2007 Convocation of the University of the West Indies, St
Augustine by the officiating Chancellor, Professor the Hon. Sir
George Alleyne. Professor Barbara Lalla, the Public Orator of the
University, read the citation detailing her career and her man contri-
butions to the NGO community and professional organizations in
Guyana, in the Caribbean community and at the international level.
I was very pleased to be specially invited to attend the ceremony
and to experience the special atmosphere of dignity and scholarship still very evident in our Region.
Desiree has always been a functioning member of BHSOSA across the decades. We continue to enjoy her
companionship and benefit from her support when needed. We value the ties that bind an dare proud of her
achievements. We congratulate her and sincerely wish her continued successes in the future.

Angela-Eunice (Marshall) Rickford (1960-67; Mary House)
Angela-Eunice (Marshall) Rickford joined the faculty of San Jose State Univer-
sity in 1996 as an Assistant Professor. She rose to the level of Associate Professor
in 2002. As a result of her tenacity, commitment and talents, Angela received pro-
motion to the rank of Professor in 2008, this being achieved in the short period of
12 years.
Writing on behalf of the university administration, Carmen Sigler, Provost and
Vice President for Academic Affairs stated:
Congratulations! Your excellent performance, as demonstrated in your record
of achievement and as indicated in the reviewers' evaluations, has earned you pro-
motion to the rank of Professor. Your promotion reflects the confidence that
your colleagues, President Kassing and I have in your continuing contributions to San
Jose State University.
BHSOSA adds its congratulations to Angela on her latest academic achievement.

The Meaning of BHS
BHS facilitates development mentally, socially and physically through a variety of experiences, both in the class-
room and through co-/extra-curricular activities. It enables students to develop many skills and talents, some of
which would remain hidden otherwise. It is a place where people are given an opportunity to make a valuable con-
tribution, develop a sense of dedication, self-esteem and self-control. For some, school is like a home, a place
where they can grow. The experiences gained in school are also considered challenging. One student saw school
thus: like a flower, it is the root from which I will bloom.
Perspectives of Lower 6 Students 1996-97
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Alumni among 2008 Guyana Cultural Association Awardees
The Guyana Cultural Association of New York recognizes the achievements of individuals and contributions by
social and business entities in cultural development through its annual award scheme. It has included two alumni
among the awardees for 2008. They are Avis Joseph, musicologist and Cicely Rodway, poet and educator.

AVIS JOSEPH (1964-71; Mary House)
Educated at the Bishops High School, Georgetown, the Royal School of Music, London and
the University of the West Indies, Avis Joseph is an associate of the Royal School of Music and
music teacher and choir director of many Churches in the New York area. Her subject areas are:
music education, violin, piano, clarinet, steel pan, saxophone, guitar, vocal music, rudiments and
theory of music .
From Guyana to the Bahamas, Bulgaria to Pyongyang, Havana to London to the United States,
Avis has adjudicated at Calypso, Steel band, Music Festivals and other music competitions and
was host of Mid Morning Classics on the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation. She has per-
formed in the Sound of Music in Georgetown, My Fair Lady and Boys from Syracuse in Nassau,
Bahamas, at CARIFESTA and at the World Festival of Youths and Students in Havana, Cuba and is currently the
organist at Grace Episcopal Church in Carona.
CICELY RODWAY (1954-62; Victoria House)
To her students, Cicely A. Rodway, Ed.D. is teacher: dignified, accomplished, wise, a
bearer of knowledge. But in the very soul of this quiet woman lies a soul that has been marked
by the stripes of experience. The very essence of this triumphant spirit takes form in the poetry
for which she is honored today.
Cicely Rodway, mother, grandmother, academic, champion of the workforce, social
worker, therapist, uses her poetry as a surgeon uses a knife. She slices away old scars of past
experiences and, like new skin, the insights revealed find their meaning in the common threads of
life lived in a society marked by silences.
Her focus on rasion detre has permitted a voice that calls old times to order, examining
as she does the several layers of that which may be called truth. The community that she so closely interrogates in her
verse is the subject of her collection of poetry, Sunstreams and Shadows, Africa World Press, 2002, which is also found
in an audio recording. Her second collection is Women Who Laugh at the Wind, 2007. She is currently composing a
series on the experiences of men.
This scholar reads her acclaimed poetry at colleges, universities, libraries, academic conferences and other institu-
tions.
Cicely A. Rodway, Ed.D. exemplifies the spirit that dares to be brave.

Taken from: http://www.guyfolkfest.org/bios2008.htm
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Condolences

BHSOSA expresses condolences to the families and friends of the following alumni who have passed or have had
family members pass between April and September 2008:

- Eugenie Harris (Death of husband) - Family of Grace Reid
- Thelma Joseph & Damian Joseph (Death of mother & grandmother) - Zephine Payne-Wailoo & Dorothy Payne (Death of
- Beverly Ann Roberts & Gillian Sue (Death of mother) father & brother)
- Bibi Shadick (Death of brother-in-law) - Elfrieda Bissember (Death of father)
- Erwin Roberts (Death of father) - The Robertson family (Death of mother)
- Lee-Ann & Lindani Abraham (Death of grandfather) - Gillian & Margaret Austin (Death of father)
- Shanell Joseph (Death of uncle)
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P A G E 1 1
If you have any comments or suggestions about the newsletter or
would like to submit an article or reflections, please write to us at
BHSOSA, P.O. Box 101796, Georgetown, Guyana
or email us at [email protected] or [email protected].
Newsletter Team:

Layout/Design:
Andrea Bryan
Janice Jackson

Content:
Andrea Bryan
Penny Franklin
Shelly Harris
Janice Jackson
Magda Pollard
Terry Stuart

bientt
Ms. Elizabeth Isaacs-Walcott joined the staff of the Bishops High School in 1990 as Graduate Senior Mistress,
teaching English Language and English Literature. She rose to the position of Deputy Headteacher in 2000 and
assumed the post of Headteacher in 2004, upon the retirement of Ms. Maureen Massiah.
BHSOSA expresses its sincere thanks to Ms. Isaacs-Walcott for contribution to the school and, more particularly,
to the students who will undoubtedly make their mark in Guyana and further afield.

Shelly Harris, alumna and Graduate Mistress/Head of Science at the Bishops High School, shared her perspective on
the importance of Ms. Isaacs-Walcott in her life and to the BHS family.

Not very many persons knew that Ms. Elizabeth Isaacs-Walcott and I, did not become
acquainted for the first time at The Bishops High School, but in fact share our ancestry, with our
parents, grandparents and numerous uncles and aunts, all coming out of the renowned village of
Hopetown. In fact Liz was always Aunty Liz to me during my formative years.
From my first day at work as a Science teacher at Bishops and my subsequent time there, I
have always been comfortable. My work was never stressful, as my big cousin was also there with
me. At the time when I joined the BHS staff, Ms. Walcott was a Senior Mistress. I was immedi-
ately struck by her enthusiasm and eagerness to perform her tasks. Her energy supply seemed
limitless, and she was always engaged in some activity or the other, forever on her feet.
Elizabeth was eventually promoted to Deputy Headmistress and then finally to Headmistress. She never once
acted like or intimated to anyone that her promotions were her due. Instead, she worked diligently at whatever post
she held, and she did so without fear or favour and with commitment.
When it was time for Ms. Massiah to retire, those of us who knew Liz and trusted the judgment of Ms. Massiah
were confident that Bishops was in good hands. Elizabeth assumed her role as the new Head of Bishops with her
usual forthright candor, unshakeable integrity and the conviction of her own values, which so mirrored those of our
beloved school.
Her few detractors soon abandoned their doubts as to her suitability for the post, as in her first year as Head,
Bishops recorded its best ever CSEC passes, a tribute to the efforts of her predecessor, which assisted her
immensely. And thus it continued the tradition of excellence to which we had all become accustomed.
At the helm, she faced many challenges, but she kept our school on an even keel. Our school remained top
notch and a force to be reckoned with in every competition we entered.
Too soon, it seemed came Lizs time to retire. Although we knew it was approaching, many people mourned her
retirement. She, with her typical foresight, tried to prepare her staff for the parting of our ways, by constantly telling
us about the inevitability of change.
I miss her! Elizabeths devotion to all things Bishops won her praise and commendation from students, both past
and present, but most of all, she won a permanent place in our hearts.
Congratulations! Head Teacher!! Thank You, my friend!

BHSOSA Chapter Presidents

Barbados Yvonne Moses-Grant
California Margaret Estwick
Florida Gina Trotz
Jamaica Sarah (Sally) Eytle
NY Tri-State Denise Roman
Toronto Denise (Susie) Archer
Trinidad & Tobago Marguerite Buckmire
UK/Europe Alison Tyndall
Washington Desiree Chapman
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