The University of Saint Louis recently hosted the CECA Summit at the Bulwagang Teodulfo Domingo on September 27, 2024. Organized by the Community Engagement and CICM Advocacies (CECA), the event brought together key university leaders, faculty, and students to explore and advance the university’s community service initiatives. The summit focused on enhancing USL’s dedication to social responsibility and fostering a culture of volunteerism, in alignment with the institution’s mission and CICM advocacies.
One of the major highlights of the summit was the presentation of the new CECA framework and logo, delivered by Mr. Alvic B. Torres, the SECAP CECA Coordinator. The updated framework symbolized a fresh approach to community engagement, focusing on building stronger partnerships with local communities. This, too, aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure USL’s community engagement supports both local and global challenges. By integrating advocacies such as good health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), and zero hunger (SDG 2), the framework fosters sustainable solutions while enhancing student learning through service and research, further strengthening USL’s commitment to social responsibility.
In addition, the introduction of new guidelines for employees and student organizations involved in community engagement activities was presented by Ms. Victoria Bianca Acorda, OIC Director. These guidelines were designed to streamline procedures and ensure that all initiatives align with the university’s broader goals.
Key findings from recent community assessments were also shared during the event by Ms. Roselyn Lemi and Mr. Bryan Arugay, Coordinators of the SABH and BES, respectively. The assessments provided valuable insights that will inform future volunteer programs and community extension activities, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of partner communities. A panel discussion on “The Role of Leaders in Shaping Volunteerism” underscored the importance of leadership in cultivating a robust culture of volunteerism within the university. The panel of experts included Dr. Ariel M. Lorenzo, Dr. Marie Jean N. Mendezabal, and Dr. Herbert S. Corpuz.
The summit concluded with a series of workshops and breakout sessions where participants collaborated to design impactful programs. These sessions encouraged creativity and cross-departmental cooperation, reflecting the university’s dedication to fostering collaboration and innovative solutions in its community engagement efforts. The CECA Summit was a significant step toward reinforcing USL’s mission of social responsibility and engagement with local communities.
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