PIC Insurance unveiled a memorial plaque yesterday in honour of founding member Dane Hamilton KC as part of celebrations marking the company’s 23rd anniversary.
The ceremony, held at the company’s boardroom, was led by PIC Chairman Zorol Barthley who described Hamilton as “the heart and soul” of the company since its establishment in 2001.
“Even in his absence, I can hear the echo of his voice, strong opinion, strong and principled and making firm decisions towards the advancement of this company,” Barthley said during the ceremony attended by Hamilton’s family members, company directors, shareholders and staff.
A renowned attorney who hailed from St Vincent, Hamilton served as a founding director and company secretary, providing legal guidance since the company’s incorporation.
Barthley highlighted Hamilton’s crucial role alongside fellow founder Dr Rolston Barthley, particularly after Barthley’s passing in 2005, just three years into the company’s operations.
“At that time everything was thrown into haywire, and we literally had to learn to swim, and navigate our way to where we are today, 23 years later,” Barthley said, crediting Hamilton’s wisdom for guiding the company through challenging times.
“I know we’re here to recognize my father’s contributions, and I have to say thank you to the shareholders, management and staff on behalf of myself and the family. It’s a great honour to be for my father to be recognized in this way,” Hamilton Jr said.
He emphasized that the company’s name – People’s Insurance Company – reflected his father’s and Dr Barthley’s dedication to service, ensuring that “citizens, their clients are foremost on everyone’s mind”.
Barthley announced that PIC is finalizing plans to institutionalize an award to honour Hamilton’s legacy.
While details are still being finalized, Barthley indicated the company is “leaning towards education in the legal side” with an annual award that represents Hamilton’s contributions to Antigua, the OECS, and PIC Insurance.
While the memorial plaque was being unveiled by Jasmine Hamilton, spouse of the late KC, the chairman declared that Hamilton’s name “will always be called, especially when we find ourselves in ticklish matters when a final decision is needed”.
PIC Insurance Company will hold an open day today, April 1, marking exactly 23 years since the company began operations in 2002.
The company also expects to announce details of the memorial award by the end of the celebrations.
