Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University South La Union Campus (DMMMSU SLUC) honored its senior and graduating students during the Recognition Program 2024 held at the JDA Hall on June 20, 2024.
SLUC recognized its academic awardees (graduate and undergraduate levels), academic distinction special awardees, and non-academic distinction special awardees.
Chancellor Joanne C. Rivera led the distribution of awards and certificates, accompanied by Dr. Raquel D. Quiambao, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Nona M. Rivera, Dean of the College of Education; Prof. Ferdinand M. Navarro, OIC-Dean of the College of Agriculture; Dr. Faith S. Tadeo, Dean of the College of Fisheries; Dr. Tjaart B. Estrada, Dean of the College of Graduate Studies; Prof. Gabriel O. Bacungan, Dean of the College of Community Health and Allied Medical Sciences; and Prof. Enrico G. Dacanay, Dean of the College of Computer Science.
In her message to the awardees, Chancellor Rivera introduced the concept of BANI, which stands for Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible, as a framework to understand and navigate the complexities of the modern world.
“As you venture into the world, it is crucial to remember that the attitude and behavior you exhibit will be the true manifestations of your identity as DMMMSU graduates,” she said.
“Be innovative thinkers and proactive problem solvers, showing the world that a DMMMSU graduate does not just follow the path but creates it,” Rivera emphasized.
She concluded her message with a reminder of their potential impact, “You are the pioneers of tomorrow. The challenges you face will be great, but so too will be the impact you make.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Haya-Lea O. Almonte, an academic excellence awardee from the College of Education, delivered the words of gratitude. She reflected on her and her batchmates’ experiences at the University.
Almonte shared the metaphor of cycling to describe their academic journey, drawing parallels between learning to ride a bike and navigating college life. She highlighted the importance of perseverance and resilience, noting how their confidence grew.
She ended her speech by encouraging her fellow graduates, “We’ve finally conquered that gruelling climb… keep pedalling, keep pushing forward, and conquer every mountain that rises before you.”
(By Zander Christopher Mercado)
(Photos by Gloeduard Milanes and Nathanael Alexis Milanes)
