Dr. Simon Clarke Celebrated By Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College

Late well-known educator and visionary, Dr. Simon Clarke, was honored with an ‘Evening of Tributes’ hosted by the Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College (SSTC) in St. James, where he served as founding principal.

The event, held last Friday (June 23), brought together various stakeholders, who paid homage to Dr. Clarke’s remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the 48-year-old institution and the wider education sector.

Principal of SSTC, Ricardo Bennett, opened the ceremony with a powerful tribute, affirming Dr. Clarke’s transformative and progressive impact.

He acknowledged the late educator’s leadership during his tenure, which saw the institution grow and excel in academics, infrastructure development, while increasing collaborations with the wider community.

Mr. Bennett praised Dr. Clarke as a visionary, mentor, motivator, scholar, and educator extraordinaire, stating that his legacy would forever be ingrained in the Jamaican education system.

Immediate past Principal of the college, Dr. Lorna Gow Morrison, described Dr. Clarke as an inspiration, possessing a sharp wit that transcended time and boundaries. She highlighted his various roles and contributions, noting that his relevance will continue for years to come.

The Ministry of Education and Youth’s Director for Region 4, Dr. Michelle Pinnock, hailed Dr. Clarke as an educator “par excellence”.

She said the pioneering principal of both Green Island High School and SSTC, had an unwavering commitment to education, displayed exceptional leadership, and was an active advocate for the advancement of learning.

Dr. Pinnock noted that personally, he was a consistent motivator and family friend to both herself and her mother, past principal of SSTC, Dr. Cecile Walden.

“Acting as his second in command, Mommy speaks of their many excursions, initiatives, challenges and success stories. This man was so proud of me that I could always hear his voice calling out for me, affirming me and of course, motivating me to hurdle each obstacle one at a time as I maintain work/life balance,” she noted.

Community activist, O. Dave Allen, who spoke on behalf of the Granville community where SSTC is situated, noted the profound impact that Dr. Clarke had on the students, faculty, and residents.

He highlighted Dr. Clarke’s integrity, lifelong dedication to learning, and his ability to foster community partnerships that extended beyond the classroom.

Mr. Allen said that Dr. Clarke was not only an intellectual but also an innovative problem-solver, applying his knowledge in practical and meaningful ways.

Chairman of the St. James Parish Library Committee, Claudette Bryan, lauded Dr. Clarke’s exemplary leadership at both the local and national levels of the Jamaica Library Service. She expressed gratitude for his visionary guidance, influential presence, and countless contributions to libraries.

The evening was attended by members of Dr. Clarke’s family, including his three children, sister, and niece, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming accolades and recognition conferred upon their beloved one.

Included were musical tributes from lecturer Donovan Doyleyand The Young Jamaica Ensemble of SSTC, as well as personal testimonies from past students and representatives from various organisations.