LEGACY OF SERVICE Honoring CatSU’s Outstanding Alumni
EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (ED)Graduates often take diverse
journeys as they pursue their careers following the conferral of their degrees.
Each path is unique, shaped by personal dreams and professional aspirations.
Yet, how truly remarkable it is when alumni not only excel in their chosen
fields but also seek ways to give back to their alma mater and communities,
with their stories becoming a source of pride for the university.
Such exceptional achievement was
celebrated at the CatSU Parangal 2024 on October 18 at the gymnasium, where two
outstanding alumni who have stood out among others were recognized for their
success in their fields.
Following a rigorous selection
process by the Search for Outstanding Alumni of CatSU, chaired by College of
Law Associate Dean Atty. Gregorio M. Sarmiento Jr. with Alumni Relations
Director Maricel S. Cariaso, two exemplary alumni emerged as this year’s
honorees – Department of Agrarian Reform Provincial Officer Dr. Nerisa B. Aldea
and Dean of CatSU Graduate School Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara.
Notably, Dr. Aldea has advanced
agrarian reform and community development in Catanduanes. Her work focuses on
improving service efficiency, overseeing the distribution of land ownership
certificates, and implementing various programs that support farmers and
beneficiaries. Under her leadership, several cooperatives and associations
received support for climate-resilient agricultural practices, boosting
productivity and sustainability. Moreover, she established a Farmer's Business
School and secured funding for farm machinery, which provided much-needed
resources for local agriculture.
Meanwhile, CatSU's Graduate
School has been stepping up under the leadership of Dr. Arthur I. Tabirara. As
Dean, he introduced reforms such as updating the Graduate School Manual and
enhancing curricula to meet current needs. He facilitated program upgrades and
proposed the opening of doctoral programs to meet growing demands.
In community service, Dr.
Tabirara actively leads the Knights of Columbus, an international
religious-based organization committed to serving different community sectors.
He was recently appointed district deputy, covering six councils in the
province. He also played a principal role in local legislation, particularly in
environmental conservation and waste management, which have earned him awards
and recognition.
Dr. Tabirara viewed the award as
a reminder for all CatSU graduates to uphold the university’s core values. He
also emphasized that such recognition serves as encouragement to continue their
commitment to community service and faith-driven leadership, extending
blessings to the university for its role in inspiring service to others.
"Receiving this award is an
enduring reminder for CatSU graduates to embody the university’s core values in
serving others and honoring God,” he shared.
As these stories of achievement
and service unfold, it is clear that the legacy of CatSU thrives through its
graduates. Dr. Aldea and Dr. Tabirara are just two shining examples of the many
alumni whose service to their communities and fields of expertise serves as an
inspiration to future generations. It is certain that many more exceptional
alumni will be recognized as the search continues, further solidifying the
reputation of the university as a catalyst for change, progress, and service,
and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
