FEATURE
the University of Calgary. Now happily retired, John has a wealth of experience from multiple careers. He began his career as a journalist in Bermuda including stints as a weekly newspaper editor, radio and TV broadcaster and talk show host from 1972 to 1981. He enjoyed a varied law practice in litigation, conveyancing, trusts and estates. John was also a politician and an elected member of parliament in Bermuda for 18 years, having served as Cabinet Minister, Whip, House Leader for the Opposition and Leader of the Opposition upon his retirement in 2011. John joined Albert College’s Board of Governors in 2009, in roles that included Vice-Chair, Chair and Past Chair, and member of the Governance and Executive committees, to name a few. During that time, he was a dedicated leader until his retirement from the Board in 2021. John and Sharon live in Bermuda, have two children and four grandchildren who are, he says “the devoted objects of my attention and affection these days.” John credits Albert College for turning his life around when he was 14 years old. John shared that, “when I arrived at Albert College in 1965, I not only matured quickly, but I also developed self-confidence and self- discipline and began to believe that I could be successful at whatever I wanted to be. While I was at Albert I also realized, in ways that I did not fully appreciate at the time, that there was a whole world of opportunity beyond what the eye could see in Bermuda. Albert was very much a stepping-stone for me. The caring staff and teachers saw to it that I was able to succeed not just academically, but in every way possible.” John’s wish is that every young person in Bermuda could attend Albert College as he did. “It was a life- changing experience for me, and still is for those who have followed me.” His tremendous career accomplishments earned him a coveted spot on the Wall of Honour in Alumni Hall at Albert College, where he was inducted in April 2023.
“It is such a huge decision to make when considering sending a child overseas,” remarks Heather Kidd, Director of Enrolment Management. “Due to our long association with Bermudians, those families have no problem entrusting their children in our care. Since Albert is such a small and caring family school, our students instantly feel right at home.” And the hospitality extends both ways. Since Heather has been travelling to Bermuda every year for over 25 years, she is affectionately referred to as a “Bermuda Onion” by the locals. Bermuda has a special place in her heart and will always be one of her favourite destinations for finding Canada-ready students to join our community.
When I arrived at Albert College in 1965, I not only matured quickly, but I also developed self-confidence and self- discipline and began to believe that I could be successful at whatever I wanted to be.”
JOHN BARRITT ’68 ALBERT ALUMNUS
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ALBERT COLLEGE
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