Bermuda College honours retired faculty with Professor Emeritus awards

Bermuda College has honoured retired faculty members during its annual Retirees’ Luncheon, recognising their outstanding service and lasting impact on the College and the wider Bermuda community.
Held recently at Coco Reef Hotel, the luncheon brought together approximately 40 retirees for an afternoon of connection, reflection, and celebration.
The event, during which ten people were bestowed with Professor Emeritus or Emerita titles, highlighted the vital role retired faculty have played in shaping the institution’s academic foundation.
Bermuda College President Dr. David Sam congratulated the honourees and acknowledged their enduring legacy.
“The Professor Emeritus, or Emerita, designation is one of the highest honours the College can bestow,” said Dr. Sam.
“It recognises not only years of dedicated service, but the lasting influence these individuals have had on our students, our institution, and Bermuda as a whole.”
The following retirees were awarded the title of Professor Emeritus/Emerita for their exceptional contributions:
- Dr. Gloria Frederick – Chemistry
- Dr. Paul L. Shepherd – Psychology
- Dr. Charles Zuill – Art
- Dr. Jeremiah Faries – Psychology
- Dr. Sharon Virgil – English
- Dr. Edwin M. E. Smith – Art
- Dr. Jolene Bean – History
- Mr. Leo Betschart – Hospitality
- Dr. Barbara O’Shaughnessy – Hospitality & Business
- Dr. Angela Barry – English

Last year, Craig Simmons and Frederick Ming were bestowed with Professor Emeritus titles, the first to receive the honour from the College, on April 5, 2025, at the 50th Anniversary Gala.
Patricia Robinson was bestowed with the Professor Emerita title at the College’s Built to Last ceremony last October, which honoured alumni who had been successful in the trades.
“These honourees helped shape generations of students and set standards of excellence that continue to guide the College today,” Dr. Sam added. “Their influence will be felt for years to come.”
The Retirees’ Luncheon reflected Bermuda College’s ongoing commitment to honouring the contributions of its former employees and celebrating the legacy they continue to leave behind.
