When the Bermuda College opened in 1974, it became more than an institution — it became a promise of affordable, high-quality education and career development opportunities for all Bermudians. That promise has shaped thousands of lives, strengthened our workforce, developed leaders in every industry, and fuelled Bermuda’s progress. Today, that mission is more critical than ever.

Education is the cornerstone of economic growth, innovation and social mobility. It equips individuals with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world and empowers communities to adapt and prosper.

While government funding remains vital, modern education demands — advanced technology, upgraded facilities, and innovative programmes — require additional resources. Without supplemental support and sustainable funding, the Bermuda College risks falling behind global standards and failing to meet the evolving needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s workforce.

We are proud of our impact to date. Established in 2019, the foundation exists to secure successful philanthropic partnerships that strengthen the Bermuda College and ensure its long-term success. Our mission is simple but powerful: to mobilise community investment so that Bermuda’s only postsecondary institution can thrive — not just today, but for generations to come.

Since inception, the foundation has raised more than $11 million, funding critical initiatives that have transformed the Bermuda College’s campus and enhanced student experiences, including:

Student financial assistance: as many as 750+ awards provided, valued at nearly $1 million, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to education.

Campus modernisation: the Athene Career Development Centre (including new classroom, computer lab, and Aspen Innovation Centre and Lecture Theatre), campuswide IT infrastructure upgrades, fully renovated classrooms and computer labs, and new learning and meeting spaces such as the Butterfield & Vallis Conference Centre.

Programme enhancements: investments in all areas of technical education, nursing simulators and innovative programmes such as aquaponics.

Sustainability projects: solar energy systems and campuswide LED retrofits that reduce costs and environmental impact.

In 2024-25, 90 students graduated with associate degrees and 296 professionals advanced careers through specialised training. Autumn 2025 saw enrolment increase 5 per cent, reflecting lives changed and futures built.

Student government representative Callahj Simons recently shared the difference of learning in the updated classrooms: “In the older classroom, I experience a traditional lecture style relying on the lecturer's elaboration and presentation slides that are available subsequent to the close of a chapter. In the other room, the lecturer has the resources to elaborate and present slides simultaneously.

“What is illustrated here is the significance of the advancements that have been made with the help of every donor present this afternoon as your continued assistance ensures that every learner can be accommodated here at the Bermuda College.”

Consider the young Bermudian, supported by student financial assistance, completing her nursing certification and going on to work in Bermuda’s healthcare sector. Or the Bermudian student who earned an associate degree in information technology and secured a job in cybersecurity — a field critical to Bermuda’s digital future. These success stories are the heartbeat of the Bermuda College Foundation’s work.

Our vision is in action! We are committed to ensuring Bermuda has a fully funded, state-of-the-art Bermuda College that prepares students for global opportunities while driving Bermuda’s economic and social progress. Imagine a Bermuda where every student has the tools to succeed, where innovation thrives, and where education fuels a vibrant economy. That is the future we are building.

The success of the Bermuda College — and by extension, Bermuda’s future — depends on the entire community. Every donation, partnership and act of support brings us closer to a thriving Bermuda where education is the engine of opportunity.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate: every contribution, large or small, makes a difference

Partner: businesses can invest in workforce development by supporting programmes and offering internships that align with industry needs

Advocate: share our mission. Encourage others to see education as the foundation of Bermuda’s success

Education is not an expense; it is an investment. An investment in people, in progress and in possibility. The Bermuda College Foundation is proud to lead this effort, but the real power lies in our community coming together to make it happen. Join us for a campus tour — experience our vision in action and discover the resources the college offers our entire community.

Join us. Invest in Bermuda’s future.

• Kerry Judd is the executive director of the Bermuda College Foundation. Learn more atwww.bermudacollegefoundation.org. This op-ed is part of the Third Sector Spotlight Series, a collective campaign co-ordinated by the Non-Profit Alliance of Bermuda. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the value, impact and contributions of Bermuda’s non-profit sector