Living the Mission: A journey of faith and service
Date Posted: July 4, 2024 at 04:15 PM
Since being acquired by the Congregation of the Mission in 1964, Adamson University has celebrated its rich tradition of Vincentian education through incorporating transformative experiences and commitment to service that exemplify the institution's ethos of holistic education—nurturing minds, shaping character, and inspiring hearts to serve others selflessly, especially the disadvantaged.
Amir Auditor's journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith, service, and education. Born into a challenging environment without a father figure, Amir's upbringing instilled in him a resilient spirit and a deep appreciation for the opportunities education could provide.
Reflecting on his alma mater, Adamson University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and graduated Magna Cum Laude, Amir recalls how Adamson played a crucial role in shaping who he became, but was not just about academic excellence; it was also about values and service.
Central to Amir's experience at Adamson were the University's Vincentian missions facilitated by the Office for Vincentian Identity and Mission (OVIM), which took students to marginalized communities across the Philippines. These experiences left an unforgettable mark on him.
"Joining the mission trips opened my eyes to the harsh realities faced by many Filipinos. It was a humbling experience that deepened my empathy and understanding towards our sisters and brothers in the margins, and strengthened my resolve to make a difference," Amir shares.
"The mission trips were eye-opening. They taught me the importance of empathy and understanding the struggles faced by others," he furthered.
One particular mission to Bicol highlighted the resilience of the community amidst poverty, reinforcing his commitment to service: "We were immersed in a community struggling with poverty, yet their spirit and resilience were remarkable. It was there that I realized the true meaning of service."
Soaring in life, grounded in values
After his graduation, Amir embarked on a successful career in accounting and consultancy, currently serving as the President of ATA Accounting Services and ATP Consultancy Inc. His leadership extends to his role as the Program Head of BS Accountancy and BS Business Administration at Manila Tytana Colleges, where he emphasizes holistic education and ethical leadership.
"My time at Adamson laid the foundation for my career. It taught me the importance of integrity, professionalism, and using my skills to make a positive impact especially to the less privileged communities," he noted, reflecting on his professional journey.
But beyond academic and professional pursuits, Amir finds fulfillment in mentoring students, echoing the guidance he received from his mentors at Adamson.
"I believe in paying it forward. Mentoring allows me to share my experiences and inspire the next generation of leaders," he states passionately.
In his role as Program Head of BS Accountancy and BS Business Administration at Manila Tytana Colleges, Amir stresses the importance of holistic education, saying education should not only focus on academics but also on nurturing character and values; that it is about preparing students to become ethical leaders who contribute positively to society.
Amir's journey also underlines the enduring impact of Adamson's mission to foster servant-leaders who embody the Vincentian spirit.
"Adamson taught me that true success is measured not only by achievements but by the impact we have on others," he reflected.
Amir's involvement in the Vincentian missions has also continued to shape his perspective on leadership and service, namely on how it taught him how true leadership is rooted on empathy and understanding, as well as inspiring others and creating opportunities for growth, characterized by humility and inclusivity -- principles that form the cornerstone of his belief as a Vincentian-trained educator.
"The missions taught me that true leadership is about service. It's about empowering others and making a difference in the lives of those around you, and at the same time, the lives of others have made a difference in our own lives," he asserts.
"As a leader [in my firms], I believe in using my platform to advocate for social change and support causes that uplift marginalized communities," he affirms, explaining how he advocates in supporting Small and Medium Size Enterprises (SMSE) and other startups through his consultancy firms -- a direct reflection of the lessons learned during his time at Adamson and the mission.
The Mission’s Legacy
Amir's journey underscores the enduring impact of Vincentian education, especially on how the mission sets the University apart from other academic institutions.
"Adamson University instilled in me a sense of purpose and a commitment to serving others. It taught me that success is not just about personal achievements but also about making a difference in society, and the lives of those in the margins," he reflects.
As he continues his journey in the teaching profession, his experiences continue to shape his perspective on leadership and inspire him to mentor future generations of leaders.
Looking ahead, Amir envisions Adamson University continuing to expand its mission of evangelization and community service.
"Adamson has a unique opportunity to deepen its impact by nurturing the Vincentian values in its students and empowering them to be catalysts for positive change," he suggests. He believes that by fostering a culture of service and compassion, Adamson can prepare students to address the challenges of the future effectively.
And with OVIM being re-opened after a hiatus during the pandemic, he admitted he cannot wait to be back once mission activities begin.
Amir Auditor's journey from Adamson University to his current roles exemplifies resilience, faith, and a steadfast commitment to service. His experiences underscore the transformative power of education rooted in Vincentian values and serve as an inspiration to others. As he continues to lead with integrity and compassion, Amir remains dedicated to upholding the legacy of service instilled in him at Adamson University.
Now with eyes set towards the future, Adamson remains steadfast in our dedication to fostering leaders like Amir—individuals who embody the Vincentian spirit and strive to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Through the missions and educational initiatives, Adamson continues to sow seeds of compassion and knowledge, ensuring that our alumni carry forward the legacy of service and excellence instilled in them during their time at the University.
Amir's journey serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Vincentian values in the lives of Adamsonians, illustrating how education, coupled with a spirit of service, can transform lives and contribute to a more just and compassionate society.
As Adamson continues to evolve and innovate, we remain committed to nurturing future leaders who will uphold its mission of evangelization through education, inspired by the example set forth by individuals inspired by Saint Vincent de Paul, just like Amir Auditor.
