“Anticipate change, adapt”: speaker tells Class of 2020 in first virtual grad
Date Posted: October 27, 2020 at 03:16 PM
The pride of the blue and white illuminated the morning of October 22 as Adamson University conducted its first virtual Commencement Exercises since the institution was founded in 1932. The ceremony was streamed at the Adamson’s Youtube account at 8AM.
A total of 937 candidates took part in the graduation rites led by 12 Latin honors from the undergraduate and graduate departments of the University. Five Magna Cum Laude and two Cum Laude finishied from the College of Business Administration. Alongside them were two Meritissimus, and three Bene meritus awardees from the Graduate School.
The candidates were officialy recognized as graduates after the Baccalureate Mass officiated by Fr. William Azul Encelan, CM who also blessed the medals to be conferred to the Class of 2020’s academic, leadership, and loyalty awardees.
Mrs. Emilia Vicencio, University Registrar, along with the Deans of AdU’s 10 colleges presented the candidates to Fr. Marcelo V. Manimtim, CM, University President, who then confirmed their graduation.
Dr. Mary Jane Alvero – Al Mahdi, Group Chief Executive Officer of international quality assurance company Prime was this year’s Commencement Speaker. The Chemical Engineering alumna recalled her roots from having financial woes during her years as a student, being a startup quality assurance officer in the UAE, and eventually working her way up the ranks of her company.
“It was a frustrating experience but that situation has made me stronger because it has allowed me to work towards my vision,” Dr. Alvero—Al Mahdi said, citing her experiences working with an all-male staff while in a paternal-thinking culture.
Dr. Alvero – Al Mahdi also credited AdU with her success saying the institution taught her invaluable skills and values which she has brought in her line of work.
“My experience and training as an Adamsonian allows me to soar high, following the examples of St. Vincent De Paul, who led and organized his contemporaries in creatively responding to those who are in need,” she said.
To close put her speech, Dr. Alvero – Al Mahdi shared her life lesson – to be ready for change, and to have the ability to adapt and be mentored.
“Go outside your mental box – your comfort zone and explore. Mistakes should be viewed as stepping stones to rise in every occasion. Everyone fails, do not be afraid,” she said.
Nicole Nathalie Bulanadi, a Magna cum laude from the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy program delivered the Address of Thanks.
The replay of Adamson U’s 82nd Commencement Exercises can be viewed at the University’s Youtube page.
