The mission of the Meritorious Service Award is to inspire, educate, stimulate and enlighten human minds to the reality that success, achievement and respect, which are void of colour, gender and profession, must be recognized by an appreciative community church and nation.

THE PLEDGE: It is only fitting that such an outstanding benefactor and advocate for the indigent be remembered in some small way. Thus, the Meritorious Service Award Committee will continue to recognize and pay tribute to individuals, like the late Dr. Cooper, who have made indelible, positive and progressive contributions to The Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the global society by rendering meritorious service. Individuals whose contemporary acts have significantly and indelible affected the lives of others by doing  what is morally and ethically right by showing Christian charity, compassion and kindness.

The Award Laureates are living men and women who, through consistency and longevity, have achieved success in a chosen profession, vocation or career. These honorees have made extraordinary contributions to the development of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, and thus the global society, by giving of themselves, sometimes risking their careers and lives.  They stood up for particular ideals and principles, even if they stood alone and when the status quo pressured them to abort that which they doggedly believed. 

They are selected and revered, not only for what they have individually achieved, but for the achievement they inspire in others.