Lyford Cay Foundations Celebrates 2024 Successes at Holiday Reception

Nassau, The Bahamas – Nearly 200 guests gathered at Lyford Cay Foundations’ annual holiday reception at Lyford Cay Club on Friday, December 27, 2024. Current Scholars, alumni, grantees, FOCUS students, board members, government officials and donors convened for the much-anticipated celebration.

Fred Perpall, a two-time Lyford Cay Foundations Alumni Scholar (1995 and 1997), gave the keynote speech. Perpall is the CEO of The Beck Group, an architectural firm based in Dallas, Texas, and is the first Bahamian to be elected President of the United States Golf Association Executive Committee.

Perpall, who grew up in New Providence and received his associate degree from the University of The Bahamas, encouraged Scholars to persevere to achieve their goals. During his speech he shared the profound impact that both his family and Lyford Cay Foundations mentors had on his education. Perpall also encouraged younger Scholars to focus on self-development and to contribute to the advancement of The Bahamas.

” Lyford Cay Foundations changed the trajectory of my life. Receiving the scholarships allowed me to prioritize school instead of sports. It gave me the space to commit to my education and career fully, setting the foundation for my future. Words cannot express my gratitude to the Foundations,” said Perpall.

Basil P. Goulandris, Chairman of Lyford Cay Foundation, Inc., gave remarks expressing appreciation for the hard work of the many beneficiaries who have been transformed by the Foundations’ programmes and the generous donors who make it possible.

“We are so proud of our legacy of philanthropy. Lyford Cay Foundations has grown to become the largest private benefactor of education initiatives in the country having disbursed more than $50 million in the community,” noted Goulandris. “To date, the Foundations have helped more than 3,000 students earn university degrees in The Bahamas and abroad through our Scholarship programme. Through our FOCUS and Cutillas programmes, and our newest initiative, LEAP, Lyford Cay Foundations has served more than 500 primary and high school students. Additionally, we continue our strong support for the University of The Bahamas.”

Mary Filippelli Hall, Chairman of The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation, Inc., led a special presentation to Patricia Thomson Leonard, a long-standing member of the board and champion of the Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship in the Arts, which has served students in the arts for 20 years.

“I have the pleasure of recognizing the Moore Family, represented this evening by our Board Member Patricia Thomson Leonard, for their steadfast support of the Foundations,” said Filippelli Hall.  “This award has supported so many outstanding Bahamian artists who have gone on to become amazing ambassadors for the country.”

Additionally, Gabrielle Oliver, a Grade 6 student from T. G. Glover Professional Development and Research School, briefly shared her reflections on the FOCUS programme. “The impact FOCUS has had on my life is truly invaluable,” shared Oliver. “I’m determined to continue striving for excellence in reaching my educational goals.”

A diverse group of leaders from the Lyford Cay community, the business sector and government leadership were in attendance to celebrate the Foundations’ beneficiaries.

Our annual Holiday Reception demonstrates how Lyford Cay Foundations continues to partner harmoniously with Bahamians, government, corporate entities and the Lyford Cay community to provide learning opportunities for those who need and deserve them most,” summed up Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, Executive Director of Lyford Cay Foundations.

About The Lyford Cay Foundations

Lyford Cay Foundations are comprised of Lyford Cay Foundation, Inc. and The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation, registered charities established in 1969 and 1977, respectively. Lyford Cay Foundations believe that increasing educational attainment across the country is key to the development of a prosperous, healthy and peaceful Bahamas.

Lyford Cay Foundations have a mission to invest in learning opportunities for children, young adults, families and communities, all made possible by the generosity of donors. Through a variety of programmes, Lyford Cay Foundations assists children in school as they prepare for college, students leaving school with scholarships to attend college in The Bahamas and abroad, and non-profits providing learning opportunities. To date, more than $50 million has been invested in the lives of Bahamians.