VP Engineering & Development
“The mind is everything. What you think is what you become.” Buddha. This was the theme of the Samuel Jackman Prescod Polytechnic’s graduation ceremony recently held in Barbados. The theme is an accurate description of Jason Ruan, Shift Engineer at Viceroy Anguilla who was the school’s 2014 valedictorian.
In 2011 Jason was awarded a C.H.T.A. Academic Scholarship to pursue studies at the Polytechnic. Last November, Jason delivered his valedictory address at the graduation. He received the following certificates and awards:
• Diploma in Electrical Installation
• Diploma in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration
• Most Outstanding full-time electrical installation
• Most Outstanding part-time air-conditioning and refrigeration
• 2014 Valedictorian for the Year
In acknowledging his successes, Jason said “I would firstly like to say thanks to God Almighty for granting me the strength and wisdom to be successful in my endeavors because without Him, none of this would be possible.”
While delivering the valedictory address, Jason quoted Mary Kay Ash “Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you! Remember what you believe, you can achieve.” He thanked his parents – David and Esther Ruan, the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, the Anguilla Development Board and Viceroy Anguilla Resort & Residences.
Jason spoke about his journey to date. He expressed his appreciation to his employer Viceroy Anguilla, where he started his career as a Landscaper. Jason indicated that when he presented his CXC results to Human Resources, he was invited for an interview during which he expressed his interest in Engineering. Upon transferring to Engineering, Jason demonstrated tremendous potential and a commitment to excellence.
Jason expressed an interest in furthering his studies in Engineering, and with the support of the Engineering management team and his family, he applied to the Polytechnic. Jason was supported by Viceroy Anguilla throughout his studies. With the support of Carolyn Yard, Training Director, he applied for and won the C.H.T.A academic scholarship in 2011. In addition to working at the resort during his vacations, he also completed the six week internship course requirement there. On attainment of his certification, he was promoted to the role of Maintenance 
Engineer.
Richard Alexander, General Manager states “Jason has a bright future ahead. He is focused and displays a level of maturity which sets the stage for a very successful career. We at the resort are very proud of him and will continue to support his development.”
– Contributed
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
