By Orville Clarke, Freelance WriterTEN WOMEN were honoured by Courts Jamaica Limited and Caymanas Track Limited (CTL) for their contribution to tourism and the hospitality industry in a presentation ceremony under the infield tent at Caymanas Park on Saturday.
Among them were Fay Pickersgill and Carrole Guntley, two former directors of tourism.
Others recognised were Diana McIntyre-Pike, Camille Needham, Gloria Moodie, Iva Walters-Baker, Sybil Hughes, Nancy McLean, Mary Helen Reece and Lucille Lue.
The citation for each recipient was read by RJR radio personality, Don Topping.
Also on hand to accept a special award was Tourism Minister Aloun Assamba.
The citation to Carrole Guntley read in part: "She has established an international reputation for innovation and leadership. In an illustrious career that spans almost three decades, she has brought unparalleled growth to the sector.
"She has brought a wide range of professional acumen to the field and has enjoyed the confidence of the industry. During her tenure as director of tourism, Jamaica recorded phenomenal growth in this area for which Ms. Guntley has received several citations, awards and National Honours including the Order of Distinction, Commander Class.
"She currently holds the position of director general in the Ministry of Industry and Tourism and is a major player in Jamaica's Master Plan for sustainable tourism development".
Fay Pickersgill has been named as one of the 100 most powerful women in the travel business. Fay served Jamaica's tourism with distinction for more than 30 years.
"As a director of the JTB, she made an indelible impression on the historic landmark of the Board's achievements. Her creative energies were unleashed in the formation of the Tourism Action Plan Limited, a forerunner to TPDCO.
"It was under her leadership at the Tourist Board that Jamaica was credited as being 'the most complete and diverse warm weather destination'.
"Perhaps one of Fay's crowning achievement is her pivotal role played in transforming the attitude of young Jamaicans towards tourism. She successfully brought tourism to the classroom, when she collaborated with the Ministry of Education to introduce the subject in the school's curriculum".
NATIONAL HONOUR
Pickersgill holds the National Honour, Commander of Distinction.
Nancy McLean has had a long and distinguished career in the hospitality industry and is currently the food and beverage manager and resident manager for one of Kingston's most prestigious hotels, the Jamaica Pegasus.
Iva Walters-Baker was recognised for enhancing the tourism product in the parish of St. Ann especially during her tenure with the Jamaica Tourist Board, Mary Helen Reece for the development of many areas including ground transportation system for cruise shipping and heritage tourism.
Sybil Hughes (O.D.) was honoured for close to 40 years service to the hospitality industry as proprietor of the Mayfair Hotel, Lucille Lue who served with distinction in the office of president of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and as general manager for one of the island's largest hotels.
Camille Needham has worked in the Caribbean travel and tour sub-sector for many years. She is also a former president of the JHTA and has served in senior administrative positions in the public sector as well.
Gloria Moodie has served the hospitality industry with distinction for a quarter of a century. As general manager of the Jamaica Conference Centre, Gloria has hosted numerous international meetings and conventions. She has proudly maintained the Centre to exacting international standards for which she has received numerous accolades and commendation. She has served on the Kingston Resort Board and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce.
Diana McIntyre-Pike has received training in the Caribbean, Europe and the United States of America and is currently pursuing a Masters degree in hospitality and tourism. For over 30 years she has served on numerous boards, agencies and institutions and has graciously dedicated her time, talent and expertise to the growth of the industry. She is committed to the development of community tourism in Jamaica and throughout the region.
This marks the fifth consecutive year that Courts was recognising outstanding professional women in specific fields. It began in 2000 with women in the media. And last year select women in the nursing profession were publicly recognised.
Oaks Day, featuring the annual running of the Courts Jamaica Limited-sponsored mile and quarter fillies classic, is dubbed 'Ladies Day' at Caymanas Park.
