Ainsley Albert Mark was a distinguished alumnus of Queen’s Royal College (QRC), attending from 1953 -1961. Mark’s journey from the classrooms of QRC to national prominence embodies the Royalian ethos of excellence and dedication.
Ainsley obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce and Finance from the University of Toronto, Canada, eventually becoming a Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario, Canada and founded his firm A.A. Mark and Company, which evolved over time into the current PKF. Over a career spanning thirty-two years, his commitment to professional integrity and preceptorship cultivated a generation of accountants who continue to uphold the standards he set.
Ainsley returned to academia during the period 1971 – 1982, serving as lecturer and pivotal figure in the design, development, and implementation of the M.Sc. Accounting Programme offered by the Department of Management Studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI), St. Augustine. His leadership roles included Head of the Department of Management and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Mark would again return to UWI as a Senior Lecturer from 1987 to 1992.
In the realm of public service, Mark served as Vice-President of the Senate during the Fourth Republican Parliament (1992–1995). His tenure in the Senate was marked by a commitment to transparency and accountability.
As a proud alumnus of QRC, Mark was devoted to his alma mater. Serving two terms as Chairman of the QRC School Board and also of the QRC Foundation, he promoted initiatives that addressed funding gaps and encouraged student and staff development. His efforts facilitated participation in international events such as the Penn Relays and led to the acquisition of a school bus.
Ainsley was married to his wife Claire, with whom he had three sons: Kamau, an accounting professional; Sekou, a career banker; and Nje, a medical doctor.
Mark’s impression on culture and community was profound. He managed the World Wide Steel Orchestra and spearheaded the annual Pan Royale/Steelpan & Jazz Festival from 2001 to 2014. This initiative not only celebrated the nation’s rich musical heritage but also provided a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents. His endeavours in this arena underscored his belief in the power of culture to unite and bring communities together. His community involvement extended to his work with the New Beginning Movement, where he advocated socio-economic reforms and governance rooted in local and regional assemblies. Mark also had a passion for horse racing and breeding and celebrated successes with his champion horse, Crown Point. In recognition of his extensive service to the nation, Mark was awarded the Hummingbird Medal (Gold). This honour reflects the breadth and depth of his contributions across multiple sectors of society.
The Queen’s Royal College Old Boys’ Association is profoundly honoured to pay tribute to Hall of Honour Inductee the late Ainsley Mark, whose exemplary life of service, scholarship, and cultural advocacy stands as a testament to the values instilled at the College.