Members of the Senate paid tribute to the late Consul-General of Jamaica to New York, Alsion Roach Wilson, during the sitting of the Upper House on Friday (December 5).

Roach Wilson, who died on November 8, was laid to rest on December 5 at the Community Baptist Church in Englewood, New Jersey.

Leading the tributes, Senate president Tom Tavares-Finson, said the late consul-general did a remarkable job in representing the country and the Jamaican community in New York.

“A cursory glance at her achievements suggests that she was somebody who was closely engaged with the Jamaican community and was able to direct resources from New York into Jamaica,” he said.

“During COVID, for example, she managed to raise [over US$150,000] for tablets and laptops for the kids and recently after [Hurricane] Beryl, I think she was in a position to raise over $600,000,” he said.

For his part, Senator Aubyn Hill said Wilson redefined the scope and impact of Jamaica’s diplomatic presence in New York and across the 33 US states under her jurisdiction.

He said her tenure was marked by visionary leadership, dynamic partnership, and an unwavering commitment to nation-building and diaspora empowerment.

A consummate connector, the minister said Consul-General Wilson forged powerful institutional partnerships with leading entities such as Hartford HealthCare, University of the West Indies, Borough of Manhattan Community College, Monroe University, Alpha School of Music, and others.

Consul General Wilson’s relaunch of the Jamaica Independence Gala stands as a hallmark of her tenure, transforming it into a premier New York celebration of national pride and philanthropy.

Through her foresight, warmth, and relentless dedication, Consul General Wilson has elevated the image of Jamaica abroad, bridging hearts, building partnerships, and transforming goodwill into tangible national impact.

Opposition Senator Maziki Thame recognised Wilson for her service in advancing the lives of Jamaicans.

Consul-General Wilson was recently conferred with the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander by the Government of Jamaica.