Revered educator Guy Benjamin celebrated his 93 birthday on Wednesday, October 18, with a lunch at Ocean Grill with friends followed by a competitive game of dominoes at Fred’s Place.
The veteran academic and community activist took the opportunity to express his birthday wish to the residents of St. John.
“Live as One Big, Happy Family”
“My birthday wish is for us all to get together and live as one big, happy family,” said Benjamin. “We should have love in our hearts for everyone. We should do everything we can to benefit ourselves, our community, our islands and our country.”
Benjamin has been a fixture of education on St. John since his early days as a substitute teacher on St. Thomas while he was still in high school. Benjamin went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree at Howard University and a Masters of Arts and Sciences from New York University.
The educator didn’t stay away from his island home for long.
Benjamin returned to St. John and taught at what was known then as the Horace Mann School in John’s Folly. He eventually became a principal and held a position with the V.I. Department of Education.
Benjamin is also a renowned author, having penned the popular book “Me and My Beloved Virgin.”
