It was a morning of celebration, reflection, and no small measure of gratitude on Friday, 5th September 2025 , as the Anguilla Social Security Board (ASSB), in collaboration with the Department of Education, officially relaunched its long-standing scholarship programme—now proudly bearing the name of one of Anguilla’s educational trailblazers, Mrs. Anne J. Edwards-Gumbs.
The ceremony marked more than the return of a financial lifeline for students. It was a homecoming for an initiative born out of compassion over two decades ago, and a fitting tribute to the woman whose vision first gave it life.
Chairperson Molentiya Samuel, in her welcome, placed the morning’s proceedings within a wider story: “This morning we gather to celebrate the revival of an important scholarship initiative, but also to honour a pioneering spirit—Ms. Anne J. Edwards-Gumbs—whose foresight led to its creation.”
For many, the day was as much about the woman as it was about the scholarship. Minister of Education, Hon. Shellya Rogers-Webster, spoke movingly of her personal connection to Mrs. Edwards-Gumbs, who was the deputy principal at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School (ALHCS) when she attended it.
“My memory of Mrs. Edwards is filled with discipline, love, and laughter,” she recalled. “Later, through the Rotary Club, she even facilitated opportunities for me abroad—she negotiated for me to get a partial scholarship for university. I want to put on record my sincerest gratitude.”
Her voice lifted as she remarked: “This programme is more than just a financial investment. It is an investment in the future of teachers, doctors, entrepreneurs, and leaders. To our students who may benefit from this scholarship, remember that with opportunity comes responsibility. You are the torch bearers of tomorrow.”
The reinstated programme — formally renamed the ASSB Anne J. Edwards-Gumbs ALHCS Scholarship Fund — was explained in detail by Chairwoman of the Anguilla Social Security Board Navine Fleming, and Chief Education Officer Bren Romney.
Ms. Fleming reminded the audience that until its pause in 2023, the initiative had supported about 400 students. “It was the Board’s view that Anne Edwards-Gumbs was most fitting to have this honour due to her contribution to education here in Anguilla, and more so as the scholarship programme was her baby, having brought the idea to the Board.”
Romney added his own tribute, highlighting the simplicity of Edwards’ original proposal — that support should be based not just on grades but also on financial need. “From that seed of wisdom grew a scholarship programme that, for more than a decade, eased burdens, opened doors, and gave opportunities to students who may otherwise have struggled to continue their education.”
The new cycle of scholarships will benefit twelve deserving students – one boy and girl from each government-owned primary school – with funding of EC$1,000 each for uniforms and textbooks, and the Department of Education and Social Development working together to ensure the right children are selected.
The Acting Director of the ASSB, Dr. Maglan Lewis-Webster, brought a touch of humour and personal memory to her tribute. Describing Ms. Edwards-Gumbs as her “very fashionable, high-heeled Valley Secondary School English teacher,” she painted a picture of a teacher who was both stylish and deeply committed. “She was known as a teacher who cared for underprivileged children, not only in her community of North Hill and Sandy Ground, but also in the school community,” Dr. Lewis-Webster said.
When her turn came to speak, Mrs. Edwards-Gumbs took the microphone with humility and honesty. “I always wanted to teach. Didn’t know a single thing about teaching, but I did know that I love kids,” she said, drawing smiles and applause. She recalled the early days of pushing for the scholarship, and pressed today’s leaders to continue looking at the bigger picture: the high cost of textbooks, the potential of vocational education, and even opportunities in Cuba.
Her remarks were met with warmth, and when a plaque bearing her name was presented, it sealed her role not just as a pioneer but as a living part of Anguilla’s educational fabric.
Former scholarship recipients also took the stage. Thrishina Hodge-Johnson, part of the very first cohort in 2002, credited the award with helping her complete five years of secondary school. “Do your best, be your best, keep striving, keep focused,” she urged today’s students.
For Germain Hughes, the support in 2008 laid the foundation for his career. “Your attitude determines your altitude,” he reminded the audience.
Finally, 2013 recipient Kamoy Garvey explained how the scholarship once provided him with his first laptop—sparking a love of IT that eventually brought him back to the Social Security Board, this time as an ICT Technician.
The morning wasn’t without its flourishes. Junior calypsonian Island Skippa delivered a spirited performance about faith and perseverance. And the symbolism continued with the presentation of a cheque — EC$12,000 in total — by ASSB representatives Dr. Maglan Lewis-Webster and Rosanna Browne.
Browne, in her closing remarks, tied the event neatly to the upcoming Social Security 45th anniversary celebrations to be held from November 2nd – 8th 2025. “As we count down to Social Security Week 2025, we are delighted to begin with education, because it is through education that we secure the promise of tomorrow.”
Between heartfelt testimonies, musical performances, and the tangible gratitude in the air, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just the revival of a scholarship, it was the continuation of a legacy.
As Mrs. Edwards-Gumbs herself best summed it up: opportunity is only as powerful as what you do with it.
By Janissa Fleming
