SSU honors student feats in 86th Recognition, Awards Day

Marking the culmination of the academic year 2023-2024, Samar State University celebrated student academic excellence and non-academic achievements at the 86th Recognition and Awards Day earlier today, June 28, at the SSU Gymnasium.

Bannering the theme, “Foregrounding Instruction: Producing World-Class Learners and Leaders,” the ceremony highlighted the significant impact students have made on the university and the community, and their commitment in upholding excellence in instruction, research, and extension.

In his welcome address, University President Dr. Redentor S. Palencia expounded on this year’s theme, urging student awardees to become leaders of change.

“Dear students, your medals and certificates are your key in unlocking the doors, many doors of opportunities. You take the lead in rallying our advocacy of social transformation because that is our vision,” Dr. Palencia expressed.

“Be a leader who upholds dignity of you in person — that’s the most important thing — the very essence of our existence as a university. Push yourself to excel and achieve the best version of yourselves. Excel with good intention and honor, not for selfishness and fame,” he added.

With a nod to the future, the university president also reminded the awardees to look back on their time at SSU with gratitude.

“To you dear student awardees, wherever and whoever you may become in the future, always remember that SSU plays a big part of it. Do not be deceived with the glory of your achievement, but keep yourself humble with a virtue of gratitude,” he uttered.

Guest speaker for the said recognition exercises was Engr. Jon Alvin L. Macariola, Director of Center for Engineering, Science and Technology Innovation, who emphasized confidence, curiosity, and compassion as essential traits for students to carry along their academic and professional journey.

“Hone your skills and make a real impact. Your accomplishment will naturally gain attention and inspire others. The world needs leaders who are not afraid to step outside their comfort zones, who lead with compassion and integrity,” Engr. Macariola stated in his inspirational message.

“The world needs you, [awardees] of Samar State University, so go forth with confidence, curiosity, and heart full of purpose. Embrace the challenge, celebrate the victories, and never stop learning— at the same time, you will grow and inspire those around you,” he added.

Highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of medals and certificates to the student honorees that symbolizes the university’s acknowledgement of their scholastic excellence and outstanding performance beyond the academic realm.

Accolades bestowed upon them include the Scholastic Excellence Award; Non-Academic Awards, which encompass the Presidential Leadership Award, Leadership Award for members of accredited and re-accredited student organizations, Sports Development Award, and Arts and Cultural Heritage Award; and Special Awards, including the DOST Scholarship Program Award, Internationalization Student Award, Presidential Research Award, Best in Food Technology Award, and Loyalty Award.

Recognizing their service as staffers of The Tradesman, Editor-in-Chief Precious Grace Nery, outgoing Associate Editor-in-Chief Julio Laberon Jr., and outgoing Senior News Writer Jessie Gabonpa received recognition as “Outstanding Leaders.”

Hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (OVPSAS), the ceremony concluded with a reminder from the VPSAS, Dr. Gina U. Españo, for students to ‘continue to strive for greatness.’

“To our awardees, remember that today is just the beginning. The accolades you have received are not just rewards for past achievements but also a call to continue striving for greatness. Let this recognition serve as the motivation to push beyond your limits, to explore new horizons, and to make a positive impact in your respective fields and communities,” Dr. Españo articulated.