FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2024
Rebuild Dominica, Inc. Congratulates Legendary Educator and Nation Builder Jean Finucane on Receiving the Dominica Medal of Merit
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rebuild Dominica, Inc., under the leadership of President LaDana Young (née Drigo), proudly extends heartfelt congratulations to legendary educator, social worker, and nation builder Jean Finucane on her receipt of the Dominica Medal of Merit, bestowed by the Dominica Academy of Arts & Sciences — a division of Rebuild Dominica since 2018. The award was formally handed over by Gabriel J. Christian, former President of Rebuild Dominica, on Sunday, May 26, 2024.
Born in 1944 in Colihaut, Jean Finucane hails from a family deeply rooted in Dominica’s educational and civic traditions. She is the daughter of Ashley James, a distinguished teacher who taught Dominica’s first Premier, Edward LeBlanc, and many other future leaders, and Imona Bell, a woman of quiet strength and community spirit.
Jean’s own academic journey began at Colihaut Government School, continuing through Teacher Mary’s School, St. Martin School, and Convent High School. She later earned a Diploma in Social Administration from the London School of Economics before venturing to Africa in 1967, where she contributed to community and social development in Tanzania. Her training at the Nydezi Social Training Center in Social Development and her BA in Economics from the University of Zambia reflected her commitment to linking education with empowerment.
In 1988, Jean earned a Master’s degree in Sociology and Economics from American University in Washington, D.C., further refining her expertise in education and social change.
Following the devastation of Hurricane David on August 29, 1979, Jean emerged as an early leader in the Dominica Association of Washington, D.C., helping mobilize relief efforts and coordinate assistance for the island at a time of great need.
Her most enduring contribution to Dominica is as the Founder of the Dominica Community High School, an institution that offered second-chance education, vocational skills, and personal development to countless young Dominicans, many of whom went on to become leaders in their fields.
“Jean Finucane’s life’s work exemplifies the very spirit of nation-building,” said LaDana Re, President of Rebuild Dominica. “From the classrooms of Colihaut to the villages of Tanzania, from the lecture halls of the University of Zambia to the founding of the Dominica Community High School, her career has been a testament to the transformative power of education and the unyielding belief that every young person deserves an opportunity to succeed.”
Rebuild Dominica joins the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica in celebrating Jean Finucane’s lifelong dedication to education, social justice, and community empowerment. This award is a fitting recognition for a woman whose vision and service have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
About Rebuild Dominica, Inc.
Rebuild Dominica, Inc. is a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to disaster relief, community development, and educational support for Dominica and its global diaspora. Founded in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika, the organization continues to support initiatives that strengthen Dominica’s resilience and foster opportunities for its people. Since 2018, the Dominica Academy of Arts & Sciences has been a division of Rebuild Dominica, serving as a platform to honor exceptional contributions to the nation’s advancement in culture, education, and public service.
Media Contact:
Rebuild Dominica, Inc.
c/o Law Offices of Gabriel J. Christian & Associates, LLC
3060 Mitchellville Road, Suite 216
Bowie, MD 20716
Phone: RDI contact form
Email: info@rebuilddominica.org