YEARS OF loyal service do not go unnoticed in Ateneo.
During the 32nd University Service Awards on February 11, University President Fr. Ben Nebres, SJ said. “This is an opportunity to give a face to the people who work behind Ateneo and to get to know them better by putting a name for that face.”
Nebres added that the awardees also affirmed the three sesquicentennial themes through their services.
Verge of modernity. Employees who have served for five, 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years were recognized with service pins, plaques, certificates, and monetary awards. Photo by Pia B. Guballa
Communication Department Chair Sev Sarmenta, who was present during the event, said, “The foundation of Ateneo would not be this strong if it not for them so this is a good time to remember and honor those who have served the school.”
Those who have served the schools for five, 10, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years were recognized with service pins, plaques, certificates, and monetary awards. Employees who have served for over 25 years were also rewarded with a special luncheon.
This year, 301 employees were awarded, 34 of which have served for over 25 years.
Recognizing individuals
The heads of each school presented the awardees in their respective units. A video presentation was also shown, displaying their photos.
Twenty-five year awardee Maria Resurreccion Alejo, a grade school teacher, shared her experiences from her beginnings as a new teacher.
“I learned many things in teaching, first just as we teach, so are we taught. It was really I whom these students taught,” said Alejo. “The greatest lesson I learned from all my students is that each one really has the desire to be a better person.”
“The people we meet each day have their own stories to tell,” she added.
To culminate the event, the Ateneo Boys Choir and a song about happiness.
Well-appreciated service
In his closing remarks, Nebres thanked everyone for coming and congratulated the awardees. “This is an occasion to celebrate the past and commit to the nation. Today is when we commit ourselves to these tasks.”
Human Resources Development Director Imelda Nibungco thanked all the awardees for the hard work they gave to the school. “We are looking forward to continuously working with all of [them], and that we will see all of [them] in the next university awards.”
Nibungco thought the event was well-received.
“I heard people say that it was short and sweet; the pacing was good because it didn’t bore people,” she said. “For the reception I think the people are happy with the food, there are no complaints.”
