The Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (USA) Inc. (UJAA) hosted its 34th annual High School Graduate Awards (HSGA) Ceremony on Monday, June 24, 2024.

The event was held virtually (via Zoom), and it recognized high school seniors of Jamaican heritage as they graduate high school and matriculate to colleges and universities in the United States. Another aspect of the event was an essay competition through which students were encouraged to write an essay on a topical subject selected by UJAA.

The winner of the essay competition was announced during the Awards Ceremony. A special prize of an all-expense paid trip to Jamaica was presented to the essay competition winner and his chaperone. Each awardee was presented with a certificate of recognition from UJAA, and depending on accomplishments, may also receive recognition from businesses or individuals.

As is customary, KCOBA USA Inc. honored the top male student.

This year’s affair was especially significant for KCOBA USA Inc. The top male student, Mr. Jaison H. McIntosh, who was honored by the association, was also the grand prize winner of the Essay Competition. Jaison attended Westlake High School in Thornwood, NY, where he took AP classes in Statistics, Pre-Calculus, Biology, US History, Government and Macro Economics. He was a member of the Spanish Club, Stage Crew, Jazz Band, Math Club and on the Lacrosse and Football Teams. He is a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. Jaison will attend SUNY University at Albany where he will major in Accounting and Business Administration.

In total, nineteen (19) graduates from Florida, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina were celebrated. In addition to the aforementioned certificate of recognition, each graduate received book(s) written by prominent Jamaican authors and a financial award.

The event was attended by dignitaries from the diaspora, UJAA board & member organizations, teachers, families & friends of the graduates, and other members of the community. There were greetings from the Consulate General of Jamaica, NY, delivered by the Immediate Past President of UJAA, Ms. Lesleyann Samuel. The Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, NE representative, Ms. Barbara Wilson, brought greetings. Other notable greetings came from Mr. Donovan Wilson, President of UJAA; Ms. Kyle Golding, UJAA HSGA Alumna 2020 & Harvard graduate; Ms. Xaria Rockhead, HSGA Class 2024; and Ms. Carleigh Franklin, 2023 Essay winner.

The occasion was expertly managed by mistress of ceremonies, Ms. Sharon Gordon. Vote of thanks was done by UJAA’s director, Mr. Milton Baker. It was a great event. Events like these allow KCOBA USA Inc. to fulfill its 501(c)(3) obligation of supporting the local community. Thanks to the chairpersons of UJAA’s HSGA, Ms. Natasha Davids & Ms. Karlene Largie and the HSGA Committee. GREAT JOB!