BAMSI Graduates 71
```html
BAMSI Graduates 71 During 2026 Commencement Exercise
The Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) celebrated the graduation of 71 students during its 2026 commencement exercise held on May 8 at the institution’s North Andros campus.
Graduates were recognized across associate degree, national certification and professional training programs connected to agriculture, marine science, environmental management, tourism and emerging industries.
Jaron Sawyer and Breann McIntosh were named BAMSI’s 2026 co-valedictorians after achieving the highest grade-point averages in their respective majors.
Sawyer earned an Associate of Science Degree in Animal Science and also received the Best Student Project Award. McIntosh earned an Associate of Science Degree in Marine Science and was additionally awarded the Excellence in Marine Science Award and the Spirit of BAMSI Award.
Addressing fellow graduates during the ceremony, Sawyer encouraged his peers to become leaders who create opportunities and transform setbacks into strength.
“As we move forward, upward, onward, together, let us remember: purpose is not something we simply speak about, purpose is something we live.”
McIntosh also inspired graduates to pursue their dreams confidently and continue leading with purpose.
“After we leave here today, I ask you all to do this: take the unrealistic dream you’re scared to even say out loud and work like it is a reality.”
BAMSI’s 2026 graduation theme was “Purpose in Action; Empowered to Lead.”
During the exercise, Jeremiah Young received the BTC Special Award.
- 18 students completed the National Flats Fishing Certification Program
- 12 graduated from the Nature Tour Guide Certification Program
- 41 participants completed certification training in Sustainable Land Management and Climate-Smart Agriculture
During the ceremony, BAMSI President Dr. Raveenia Roberts-Hanna highlighted the institution’s continued commitment to national development, environmental sustainability and workforce training throughout The Bahamas.
BAMSI Chairman Cerone Dean also emphasized the importance of equipping graduates with practical skills, technical competence and leadership qualities needed to contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.
The commencement exercise reflected BAMSI’s ongoing growth as a multidisciplinary institution focused on education, innovation, sustainability and national capacity building.
