CIBC Caribbean Applauds Queen’s College First Formers

Touch Lives, Leave a Legacy.” That uplifting theme took centre stage at the Queen’s College (QC) First Form Awards Ceremony, held at the school on July 1, 2026. CIBC Caribbean was honored to join in celebrating the accomplishments of 156 students who completed their first year of secondary school with remarkable dedication and commitment.

In his welcome address, First Form Year Head, Roger Scott, reflected on three terms of hard work, and revealed, to loud cheers from the students, that they had all earned their promotion to 2nd form. He praised not only their academic achievements, but also their successes beyond the classroom. Special congratulations were extended to those who had proudly represented Barbados at the Carifta Games, as well as to the students preparing to go overseas to compete in a Chess Tournament during the summer holidays.

Scott disclosed that the ceremony would also feature the presentation of the inaugural Eucalene McConney Award, established in honour of the former First Form Year Head for her 14 years of service in that position. Having had the privilege of teaching with her, Scott reflected warmly on Mrs. McConney’s legacy as an inspiring teacher who would always be remembered for her unwavering commitment to seeking the very best for her students. 

In her address, Principal of QC, Mrs. Mitchelle Maxwell, admitted that, though she did not know Mrs. McConney personally, she certainly shared the enthusiasm to uphold her legacy. She congratulated the graduating First formers, and challenged them to be intentional and purposeful as they continue to add to their own stories. Maxwell emphasised that the ceremony extended beyond academics, as it highlighted other aspects of students’ lives that would play a vital role in shaping their overall development as they were also awarded for participation and excellence in Dance and Chess Club, along with football, cricket, track team, BSSAC, Netball, Drama Club, cheerleading, basketball, and cross country. 

She applauded Scott and his team for their hard work, and thanked the academic and administrative staff, along with their other partners in education, for their continued support. 

Mrs. McConney’s son, Brian McConney, also attended the ceremony and delivered the feature address. He revealed that the theme of his tribute to his mother had been inspired by the school song, ‘Fiat Lux’ translated ’Carry the Light. ‘Echoing Scott’s complimentary words, Brian added that she had consistently encouraged her students to embrace new experiences, even when they felt uncomfortable at first. He urged the students to support and serve one another, reminding them that putting others first creates a lasting legacy, one by which they, too, would be remembered.

In her address, Mrs. Michelle Whitelaw, Director, Personal and Business Banking, CIBC Caribbean, congratulated the students on their outstanding achievements. Expanding on the overall theme, she urged them to approach each day with purpose, stressing that every choice and effort contributes to the strong legacies they are creating for themselves. She told them that even seemingly small gestures of kindness create a ripple effect that can make a real difference in the way people see and relate to them. 

Whitelaw added, “Success isn’t just about what you accomplish; it’s about sharing what you’ve learnt and helping others along the way.” She concluded by advising the students to, “Touch lives with kindness, act with purpose and speak with integrity.” 

The top male and female students receiving individual awards were William Bagwell of 1 Gamma with an average of 87.8 and Dani Atkinson of 1 Delta with an average of 88.6. Presenting the top 20 academic awards were Mrs. Michelle Whitelaw, and Mrs. Mitchelle Maxwell. (PR)