In a ceremony fit for royalty, Jones Communications officially blessed its new building on Thompson Boulevard on Friday.

The official ceremony was a dual purpose one as it also honored the JCN persons of the year Education Minister Jerome Fitzgerald and University of the Bahamas President Dr. Rodney Smith.

The pair received the award primarily due to their involvement in the establishment of the University of The Bahamas.

The two-hour celebration encompassed the legacy of the Jones Communication Network and all its platforms, television, radio and print and the lasting impact it has had on the Bahamian society.

Chief Executive Officer of Jones Communications Wendall Jones reflected on the journey and the many changes that came about from East Street to Thompson Boulevard.

“None of this would have been possible without the hard work and support of the scores of Bahamian professionals that have been employed at Jones Communications over the years.

“It is not just me. It is about the scores of reporters, producers, announcers and support staff over the years,” Mr. Jones said.

Receiving his award in front of host of family, friends and supporters Mr. Fitzgerald spoke on the significance of the university and the future of The Bahamas.

“I’ve said before there is no great country anywhere in the world that does not have a first class tertiary institution and now The Bahamas can join that elite group.

“We know the role education plays in the development of a country and we know that the University of The Bahamas will be at the forefront, at the centerpiece of our development as a people,” Mr. Fitzgerald said.

Also present was the country’s leader Prime Minister Perry Christie who gave the closing remarks and spoke to both the character and achievements of Jones and Fitzgerald.