The Tribune

FREEPORT – As schools around the country commemorated Patron’s Day to mark the 40th Independence anniversary, faculty and staff of Jack Hayward High School paid homage to their patron, Sir Jack Hayward, honourary chairman of the Grand Bahama Port Authority.

In a morning filled with pomp and pageantry beginning with a flag display and national anthems of both the Bahamas and Great Britain, almost 1,400 students were apprised of the history of their institution and contributions of its benevolent benefactor who will soon celebrate his 90th birthday in June.

Hezekiah Dean, JHHS’s first principal, reminisced about the school’s beginning as an offshoot of Hawksbill High and Sir Jack’s involvement in its dedication and subsequent addition of many amenities including a gymnasium, basketball and tennis courts, and even its own street, aptly named Wild Cat Alley in honour of the school’s mascot.

“As you pass through these halls and doors, after today may you know and always remember why this school has been named after Sir Jack Hayward. And you should be proud that your school is what it is,” Mr Dean said. “But furthermore, it is not the name that I want to leave with you. It is not the name that makes the school, but it is you and what you do while you are here that makes the difference.”

Sir Jack was one of the original pioneers and developers of the city of Freeport, and a major shareholder of the Grand Bahama Port Authority Group of Companies.

He is still very much involved in all phases of Freeport life.

Sir Jack is an honorary member of the Freeport Rotary Club and a life member of both the Bahamas National Trust and Freeport Rugby Football Club.

He started the YMCA in Freeport and is the only founding member of the Freeport Players’ Guild still on the island.

He is also the honorary chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Board and a noted philanthropist.