Once a Louisian, always a Louisian! Former students of the university filled the main campus with nostalgia as they gathered for the 2023 USL Grand Alumni Homecoming on December 29, 2023.
A Eucharistic mass held at the Good Shepherd Chapel commenced the event, followed by the program proper held at the James Ter Meer Gymnasium. Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, Ph.D., University President, delivered his opening remarks to officially start the program.
Following the opening, all alumni, led by the 1998 batch, held a tribute to the golden jubilarians, in which they were given gifts and recognition. In his response, Mr. Ramoncito B. Razon, the batch 1973 representative, expressed his gratitude to everyone for the honor. “What we can commit to you is the formation of building, church, and society, being true to ourselves, and contributing excellence to our profession, family, and children.”
Mrs. Mayettezz Montero-Rivera of batch 1998 then led the alumni pledge and manifesto, which signifies their full support for the mission of the university, followed by the turnover of the monetary donation of the HS Batch 1997 to the university’s Alumni Office, which amounts to Php 200,000.
In his inspirational talk, Dr. Julius D. Capili, Research Director of DOST Cagayan Valley Health Research and Development, conveyed his heartfelt appreciation on behalf of the 1998 batch to the university administrators, faculty, and staff for their exceptional dedication and guidance in molding them into the individuals they have become today.
“Some 25 years ago and until today, the words of wisdom are still moving in us and running right in our blood. This made us quest for more success, establish our own careers, and settle in our own niches.”
He also encouraged his fellow alumni to reflect on the ways in which they can give back to the university, such as by mentoring, funding scholarships, or engaging in alumni events.
“Our collective strength lies in our unity and by staying connected by creating a network that fosters collaboration, innovation, and shared success. May this homecoming serve as a catalyst for connections, shared aspirations, and a commitment to ensuring that the coming generations experience the same transformative journey that we were actually very fortunate to undertake,” he concluded.
In an act of heartfelt gratitude, the batch of 1998 alumni honored their former teachers and symbolically handed over the key of responsibility for organizing the next homecoming event to the 1999 high school batch.
The 1998 high school batch, who hosted the homecoming, entertained the audience with lively performances and exciting raffle draws. Engr. Ariel Lorenzo and Dr. John Kit Masigan served as the masters of ceremonies, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable event for all attendees.
The 2023 USL Grand Alumni Homecoming evoked a profound sense of nostalgia among attendees, allowing them to revive cherished friendships and strengthen their professional networks. With each conversation, the intrinsic value of university life became evident, transcending mere academic pursuits and emphasizing the enduring significance of human connections.
