Local Bermuda College Presidential hopeful Larita Alford has expressed her disappointment in losing out to American Charles Green for the top job.

Dr. Alford, who has been Vice President since 2000, made it to the final shortlist of two after 32 applicants applied.

But on Wednesday the college board announced Dr. Green would get the job on a three-year contract with the brief of grooming local candidates to take over.

He replaces fellow American Michael Orenduff who was the first non-Bermudian in the college?s 29-year history.

Dr. Alford said: ?I am definitely disappointed. I would not be normal if I were not.

?I am disappointed a Bermudian was not selected. I had a lot of experience before coming (to Bermuda College) of working at the highest level.

?I think the board made a decision they think is best for the institution, whatever the reasons are for the selection, that?s what they took into consideration.?

She said she would carry on working at the college and would probably apply for the top job again.

?My credentials speak for themselves, I don?t think there is any question.?

In December 2002 then College Board chairman Jan Spiering had said Mr. Orenduff would have a Bermudian understudy.

He said Dr. Alford was definitely a candidate for the top job after saying she had done a fantastic job in exceeding targets for setting up articulation agreements with colleges overseas.

He told then: ?We set a target of eight and she has well exceeded that, ensuring that students can complete the necessary courses and qualifications at overseas institutions.?

Mr. Spiering was then replaced by Raymond Tannock who is now a Government senator.

Famous chef Fred Ming has joined the calls for the reinstatement of sacked Bermuda College lecturer Sean O?Connell whom he worked with for 30 years.

Dr. O?Connoll, a maths lecturer, was sacked last summer over allegations he had made racist remarks in a conversation with colleagues. He has denied the charge. Mr. Ming paid tribute to Dr. O?Connell?s record and said he believed any remarks must have been taken out of context.

?I strongly believe Sean?s dismissal was premature and unfair, because it had nothing to do with his teaching abilities.

?As a professional lecturer, Sean was always there for the students and his colleagues.?

Mr. Ming, who has lectured in Food Preparation at the College, said Dr. O?Connell did a great deal for the Bermuda community including raising charity funds by swimming around the island.

He said Dr. O?Connell had a good record and had helped lecturers make tremendous strides with management as president of the Faculty Association.

?I am sure Sean?s comments were taken totally out of context and was not intended to create any harm or embarrassment.

?As a lecturer teaching black and white students, Sean never showed any animosity but treated each student and his working colleagues on a level playing field.?

Supporters of Dr. O?Connell have urged Government to refer the case to an Employment Tribunal. However under the Employment Act 2000 a case must be referred within three months.