The 2026 KCOBA USA, Inc. May Gala marked a refreshing shift from previous years. After years of a 9:00 p.m. start, we listened to attendees’ feedback and moved the start time to 7:00 p.m., and it worked. The evening flowed smoothly, the energy stayed high, and guests enjoyed what they wanted most: more time on the dance floor.

The Annual Gala Dinner of the KCOBA USA, Inc. is more than an event; it is a celebration of brotherhood, legacy, and mission. This year held special significance as we commemorated 44 years of mission impact, embraced the theme Ignite, Elevate, Inspire, and joined the global Fortis family in celebrating Kingston College's 101st Anniversary.

A Warm Welcome

Guests were warmly received by board members who managed an impressive turnout. The welcome experience set the tone for the evening:

Fortis merchandise: A popular table offering memorabilia both onsite and online.
Cocktail-hour ambiance: Live music from the David Lee Jones Band, enhanced by a featured vocalist, paired perfectly with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as final preparations unfolded behind the scenes.
Formal program opening: Mistress of Ceremonies Ms. Ingrid Dixon opened with poise and energy; Ms. Nicole Young of the Morant Bay High School Alumni Association delivered stirring renditions of the U.S. and Jamaican national anthems; and Mr. James Haynes delivered the invocation, taking up the baton after years of this role being filled by stalwart board member the late Mr. Norman Scott.

Welcome and Greetings

President Dwayne Montaque welcomed attendees and thanked members and guests for their continued support. Greetings followed from Mrs. Ariel Bowen, Officer-in-Charge at the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, and Mr. Donovan Wilson, President of the Union of Jamaican Alumni Associations (USA), Inc. both reaffirming Kingston College's enduring legacy of excellence.

Message from the Principal and Year-in-Review

Although unable to attend in person, Principal Dave Myrie shared a video message highlighting the vital role of alumni support, especially KCOBA NY, as a major supporter and strategic partner in the continued growth of Kingston College. He expressed sincere gratitude to donors for their consistent generosity and commitment.

Mr. Myrie then provided an update on Kingston College’s recent academic progress, strong examination results and key initiatives by the school’s leadership to continue improving student outcomes, including expanded curriculum offerings in Law, Robotics, and Animation, early City & Guilds examination opportunities, and continued investment in modern learning spaces and technology.

He also credited these achievements to the unity of the KC fraternity, especially KCOBA NY, and closed with heartfelt thanks and encouragement, reminding all to never grow weary, as their support continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of young Fortis men.

Honoring Excellence

Dinner was served ahead of the presentations, setting the stage for DJ Prentice of Soul Tone Disco to bring the evening to an energetic close.

Presentations to Honorees:

Community Service Award: Karren Dunkley, OD, for outstanding leadership in public service and philanthropy.
Presented by Mr. Dwayne Montaque, President, KCOBA USA, Inc.
Distinguished Alumnus Award: Paul Hunt, MD, for contributions to Kingston College and the medical profession.
Presented by Dr. Ivor Nugent, MD (Friend and Classmate)
Distinguished Alumnus Award: Christopher Hunt, for contributions to Kingston College and philanthropy.
Presented by Mr. Devon Hussett (Friend and Schoolmate)
Distinguished Alumnus Award: Urvin “Derrick” Banks for contributions and service to Kingston College.
Presented by Mr. Courtney Richardson, 1st Vice President, KCOBA USA, Inc. (Friend and Schoolmate)
President’s Award of Excellence: Rose Green: In recognition of exemplary dedication and outstanding service to the Kingston College Old Boys Association USA, Inc. Presented by President Dwayne Montaque.
President’s Award of Excellence: Paula Morris: In recognition of outstanding leadership and service to the Kingston College Old Boys Association USA, Inc. Presented by President Dwayne Montaque.

State Proclamations: Presented on behalf of New York State Senator Leroy Comrie’s Office.

A Joyful Close

Second Vice President Winston Henry delivered the vote of thanks, recognizing everyone who helped make the evening a success. DJ Prentice kept the celebration going for two and a half hours, sustaining a full dance floor and high energy through the final song.

Gratitude

To the elegant women who lit up the room, we saw you. And to the gentlemen who proudly wore purple and white, Fortis Forever.

KCOBA USA Inc. extends sincere thanks to our sponsors, journal supporters, and attendees for making this gala a memorable success.

The souvenir journal may be viewed at:

https://issuu.com/docs/fb15f3bcb19f0191c600e17b9db1f815?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ

A picture gallery of the gala may be viewed at:

https://kcobausa.org/reunion-awards-gala-2026/

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