Two institutions of learning harvested benefits under the '40 years of Joy' initiative piloted by J Wray and Nephew last week in recognition of the spirit company's Master Blender Dr Joy Spence, who is observing 40 years with the organisation.

Mona High School's chemistry laboratory, and The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona campus's Department of Chemistry profited from donations valued at $1.1 million and $1.5 million respectively, during short ceremonies held at the institutions last Tuesday.

Head of the Department of Sports and Science at Mona High School Michelle Jones expressed delight during the first stop, suggesting that the school was in need of the offering, and would take full advantage of what was provided.

Head of the Department of Chemistry Dr Donna Minott Kates said the electronic balances that will be acquired for the department will assist the undergraduate programme in honour of late Professor Kenneth Magnus. "You fly the flag of the department and the university so high," she told Dr Spence.

Photo caption: It's a time of happiness and joy as members of the academic staff of the Department of Chemistry, The University of the West Indies, Mona campus pose with a symbolic cheque representing a contribution to the department by J Wray & Nephew Master Blender Dr Joy Spence (fourth left). Sharing the moment are (left to right) Dr Donna Minott Kates, head of the department; Dr Marvadeen Singh Wilmot, lecturer and associate dean for student experience; Dr Robin Rattray; Dr Novelette Sadler McKnight; Professor Emeritus Robert Lancashire; and Dr Winklet Gallimore.