Two retired educators with a combined 54 years of service to Cedric Titus High School were honoured by the Cedric Titus Past Students Association during its recent 12th annual gala at The Pines Manor, New Jersey, USA.

Recognised at the event were retired Grace Brown, celebrated for 40 years of dedicated service, and Kenneth Thompson, honoured for his 14 years of contribution to the Clarks Town-based institution.

According to a release, the gala, which attracted alumni and supporters from across the diaspora, highlighted the association’s continued commitment to supporting educational development at the school through scholarships, infrastructure upgrades and student-focused programmes.

Delivering the keynote address, Garcia McClean, a member of the Class of 2000 and student representative on the school board, encouraged past students to remain actively engaged in the institution’s advancement.

McClean stressed that alumni support should extend beyond financial contributions to include mentorship opportunities and deeper community involvement, noting that the school’s future success depends significantly on the strength of its alumni network.

Andrew Titus, grandson of the institution’s namesake Cedric Titus, also addressed attendees, reflecting on his grandfather’s life, vision and enduring legacy.

His presentation offered a personal perspective on the values of leadership, service and community that helped shape the institution over the years.

The evening also featured cultural performances, musical entertainment and networking opportunities for former students and supporters to reconnect and share memories.

Former association president Dr Avril Keldo, a member of the Class of 1979, said the fundraiser once again received strong backing from patrons and sponsors, underscoring the community’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence.

Keldo added that the association remains focused on preserving the school’s legacy while investing in the future success of its students.

The annual gala continues to serve as one of the association’s flagship fundraising events, generating critical support for the school’s academic and extracurricular initiatives.