Last 28 November 2018, the Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU) Valenzuela Campus hosted an Appreciation Day for the school year’s Most Valued School Partners in recognition of their unwavering camaraderie with the institution.
Held at the San Lorenzo Hall of the campus, the event greeted representatives of the 66 esteemed feeder schools hailing from Caloocan City, Malabon City, Navotas City, Valenzuela City, Quezon City, Manila, and Bulacan. OLFU was honored as well by the presence of the Department of Education – Meycauayan official, Velsilita Nicolas.
Formally commencing the celebration were words of welcome from OLFU’s Senior High School Administrator and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Ernesto Leuterio, who discussed the University’s journey to K to 12. The transition produced a remarkable turnout in enrollment, and for this, he expressed his gratitude to the partners. While he noted many uncontrollable factors that pose challenges to education, he encouraged his fellow educators: “With your help and our collaboration, we can realize this [vision] – we can help [the students] succeed.”
Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Mylene S. Abad Santos, also gave her heartfelt message of thanks; expressing the University’s sincere appreciation for the support and trust of the school partners, for each time they welcomed Fatima “with open arms”. “Fatima cannot live without your love; Fatima cannot live without your support; Fatima cannot live without you,” she said.
Afterward came the day’s highlight: the awarding of the 66 Most Valued School Partners. These academies were lauded for their significant enrollee contributions to Fatima’s student population. The certificates were presented to the school representatives by Dean Leuterio, Dr. Abad Santos, Basic Education Administrator Rafael Vicente S. Enriquez, and University Registrar Elaine Pascual.
Representatives Luz Ester Sison, Guidance Counselor of Baesa High School, and Dr. Virginia Alacon, Principal of Caruhatan National High School, also shared their delightful testimonials about their partnership with OLFU. Sison shared how OLFU’s efforts inspire her office to continue giving their best in their programs, while Dr. Alacon described OLFU as “one of the institutions who never turned their back, but rather became my strong partner in delivering quality education,” acknowledging the help her school received from the University. “You even touch the hearts of our students, boost their morale, and teach their minds to become better individuals,” she said.
Admissions Officer Jomar T. Parel then gave his closing remarks, focusing on the importance of hard work, and acknowledged everyone who made the event possible — the University administrators, Admissions personnel, and the school partners.
The successful Appreciation Day concluded with lunch and joyful exchanges of stories between fellow educators and partners.
