Emotions ran high at the CSU Andrews Gymnasium today, February 5, 2024 , as members of the Board of Regents, faculty, staff, students, and Alumni Association representatives came together to host a farewell ceremony and tribute for President Urdujah G. Alvarado.

The event commenced with the unveiling of a coffee table book by President Alvarado entitled “Seasons: Unwrapping a Legacy” with a foreword by Fr. Ranhilio C Aquino. The book is a compilation of select speeches delivered by President Urdujah Alvarado and photos commemorative of the university’s accomplishments during her seven years of dedicated service at CSU. The book reveals various seasons of her leadership and the transformative journey the university has undertaken under her guidance.

 

Following the book launch, Engr. Arthur G. Ibañez took oath as the Officer-in-charge of the Office of the President, stepping into the role with a commitment to uphold CSU’s legacy of excellence. In an actual turnover of responsibilities, President Alvarado handed over the reins of the University’s Office Performance and Commitment Review (OPCR) for the Fiscal Year 2024. Additionally, she turned over key documents, including the University Manual, Administrative Manual, Student Manual, and the Strategic Planning Management System. As Dr. Ibañez accepted the documents, signifying his acceptance of the position, he expressed that he would work tirelessly to ensure that the President’s initiatives and priorities are executed with precision and excellence.

 

President Alvarado, in her retirement speech, conveyed gratitude for the steadfast support she has received during her tenure. She thanked and commended the Board of Regents, members of Execom and Mancom, technical advisers, and the strong faculty and administrative workforce who are the real implementers of the university’s Vision and Mission. She also expressed her confidence in the abilities of OIC Arthur Ibañez in leading the university. “The future holds endless possibilities, and I have complete faith that this university will continue to thrive, leaving an indelible mark in the national and international arena with OIC Ibañez at the helm.”

 

The day culminated in a heartfelt tribute to President Alvarado, where everyone present acknowledged her leadership, vision, and tireless dedication to the betterment of CSU. The tribute celebrated her achievements and contributions to the institution’s academic and administrative advancements. One of the highlights of the tribute was the presentation of “64 Trees for Urdujah: a celebration of life, an advocacy lived”, a video compilation of the tree planting activities of 64 trees initiated by the 9 campuses in honor of her 64th birthday and in commemoration of her being an advocate of environmental protection. Sing and dance performances were also featured by students, faculty and staff, adding a vibrant and lively atmosphere to the tribute. Students, staff, faculty and officials also expressed their love for the President through video messaging.

 

As CSU transitions into a new era with Engr. Arthur G. Ibañez at the helm, the university community remains poised for continued growth and success, building upon the foundation laid by President Urdujah Alvarado’s exemplary leadership.