MICO University College student Petagaye Ferguson could not contain her excitement at the recent St Ann Justices of the Peace (JP) Awards Luncheon when she was presented with a scholarship valued at $100,000 by the association of JPs.

Ferguson described the scholarship as an answer to an earnest prayer.

“It is with great pleasure that I accept this award. It is an answer to an earnest prayer,” Ferguson told persons attending the luncheon aboard the Carnival Breeze cruise ship.

Ferguson was chosen for the award from a group of five college students majoring in Mathematics and or science.

She assured members of the St Ann Justices of the Peace Association that they will be hearing more about her as she intends to do well.

“It is greatly appreciated,” she reiterated.

A bursary of $25,000 was also awarded to Yonique Mendez of Moneague College, and past student of Ferncourt High School.

Mendez, who is confined to a wheelchair following an accident during her early years of high school, was not present to collect the award.

Four justices of the peace from each constituency of the parish were also recognised at the function for their sterling contribution to the parish.

The four were Rev Winston Allen, Norma Brown, Rev Noel Hall and James Nunez.

Nunez, a JP in North-east St Ann was lauded for his unwavering support for community. Nunez has been sponsoring the Moneague Police Youth Club for some 15 years. His efforts to get a house built for an elderly woman in the area was also highlighted at the awards function.

Norma Brown was also not only recognised for her work as a JP, but was lauded for her contribution to education. Brown, who worked at the Edgehill School of Special Education, was known to be very involved in the school and lives of the children.

Brown, who served as a lay magistrate in the Children’s Court and in petty sessions, was said to have never missed a session while on duty.

Rev Hall was recognised as an exemplary pastor and community leader whose dedication to service is unquestionable. Rev Hall has served in the Brown’s Town Court in his capacity as JP. However, the minister of religion has also served as a community judge, quelling community disputes in south-west St Ann through restorative justice. Hall was also said to be instrumental in starting an early childhood institution.

Rev Allen was also praised for his contribution to education. The former principal of the St Ann’s Bay Secondary (now Marcus Garvey Technical High School) has been a JP since 1996. Rev Allen was highlighted as great servant of the community and one who has been very involved in his church.

In giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the awardees, Nunez said they will continue to offer themselves to the service of the people in their communities.