The New Jersey–based Caribbean Medical Mission’s (CMM) annual Black-Tie Gala on Sunday, Nov. 1, took on a deeper purpose this year, evolving into a full-scale relief effort for victims of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
CMM Board Member Sharon Addison said on Tuesday, Nov. 11, that while the evening “unfolded in grand style” at The Grand on Lackawanna Avenue, its true impact came from the unified humanitarian call that underscored the festivities.
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“The annual Black-Tie Gala transformed celebration into a rallying point as honorees and leadership called for intensified humanitarian support in Jamaica,” Addison said.
CMM President Dr. Donna Hutton-Cassie set the tone for the evening, reminding attendees of their shared responsibility.
“We are all missionaries — those who get to participate in the work, those who can fund the mission, and those who offer support in other ways,” she said. “Our mission is to provide much-needed aid to the people of the Caribbean during this time of need. As Jamaica and others in the region recover from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, let’s all be missionaries to help those in need.”
Veteran journalist and humanitarian Michael Watkis received the Community Service Award and used his acceptance speech to both thank supporters and call for action.
“I had the profound honor of receiving the 2025 Community Service Award from the Caribbean Medical Mission,” he said. “I am incredibly grateful to the board, the committee, and the many mentors — including Lynval James — along with partners and family who have walked this journey with me, from soccer fields and college campuses to newsrooms and nonprofit boardrooms.”
Watkis urged the Diaspora to mobilize collectively.
“Let’s activate the strength of organizations like Caribbean Medical Mission, Jamaican Diaspora service groups, and global partners to meet Jamaica’s urgent healthcare and humanitarian needs,” he said. “The road to recovery will be long, but together, we can help chart a path forward. Let’s not just celebrate service; let’s multiply it.”
Honoree Dr. Montrae Calhoun Thomas, a respected pediatrician and humanitarian, offered brief but heartfelt remarks.
“CMM’s mission manifests God’s gifts through their humanitarian work each year,” she said. “Thank you for this most precious honor.”
