The University of Saint Louis brought together its students, employees, alumni, and other stakeholders in a show of unity, pride, and spirit during the 59th Founding Anniversary Week festivities held on February 12-16, 2024, at the university’s main campus.
In his special address during the opening ceremony on February 12, 2024, University President Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, Ph.D., emphasized the significance of honoring the individuals who have played pivotal roles in the development and establishment of the university. He expressed gratitude towards the visionaries, founders, and predecessors whose dedication and foresight have laid the strong foundation upon which the institution continues to thrive and succeed to this day.
“As we stand on the threshold of our 59th year, let us honor their memory and celebrate their foresight, resilience, and dedication. Their legacy is not a relic of the past. It is a torch that continues to guide us towards the future. As we pave the way to our diamond jubilee, let us carry their legacy forward. Let us continue to illuminate minds, shape character, and create a better world. One student, one discovery, and one act of kindness at a time,” shared Fr. Maniwang.
The foundation festivities brought an entire week of vibrant and exhilarating carnival rides, an array of food stalls, and a variety of gimmicks, entertaining both Louisians and visitors. Talent and passion filled the main campus as students competed in various events in sports, literary, socio-cultural, special, and visual, encapsulating the true spirit of USL’s rich legacy and tradition.
In its major events, the Basic Education School (BES) clinched the championship at the fierce Jump Street competition, while the School of Accountancy, Business, and Hospitality (SABH) dominated the Bleacher’s Gimmick event.
The School of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology Education (SEAITE) also reigned supreme in the Louisian Luminaries. Meanwhile, Prince Charlie Aquino from SABH and Breanne Harriette Cureg from BES were crowned Louisian Ambassador and Ambassadress, respectively.
Demonstrating an unbeatable performance, SEAITE once again triumphed as the overall champion, their third consecutive time. The School of Education, Arts, and Sciences followed closely as the 1st runner-up; SABH placed as the 2nd runner-up; BES garnered the 3rd runner-up; and the School of Health and Allied Sciences settled for the 4th runner-up.
Louisians and visitors also basked in a night of unparalleled musical treats at the ONE USL: Friendship Concert held on February 16, 2024, at the USL Open Field. JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano, the Vocal Duet Grand Champion of It’s Showtime’s Tawag ng Tanghalan, amazed the crowd with both powerful vocal stages and romantic serenades.
Headlining the concert, the band Cup of Joe electrified the audience with their beautiful, dynamic tunes and contagious energy. The crowd swayed to the rhythmic melodies of their hits, Tingin, Sinderela, Tataya, Mananatili, Patutunguhan, Ikaw Pa Rin Ang Pipiliin Ko, and Estranghero, concluding the foundation week festivities on a high note.
Bearing the theme “USL@59: Illuminating a Legacy, Paving the Way to Diamond Jubilee,” the foundation week honored the vibrant past and reveled in the present, while hoping for a radiant future, eyeing the upcoming diamond jubilee with much anticipation.
