The College of Liberal Arts (CLA) marked its 50th Founding Anniversary on September 27-28, 2024, with a series of activities celebrating its legacy of excellence and contributions to the university and beyond. Themed “CLA @50: Celebrating a Milestone of Remarkable Achievements in the Home of the Champions,” the two-day event brought together students, faculty, and alumni to reflect on the college’s rich history and envision its future.
The festivities began with an opening program on September 27, which featured a Dua’a and a mass offering, symbolizing unity and gratitude. One of the highlights of the day was the unveiling of a coffee table book documenting the milestones of the college. Dr. Ryan D. Biong, History Department Chairperson, provided an overview of the coffee table book, emphasizing its role in preserving the college’s storied history and inspiring future generations.
Simultaneously, various activities were held across the campus, encouraging participation from faculty, students, and alumni. From debates to games, these events are aimed at showcasing the diverse talents and unity within the CLA community.
The second day of the celebration highlighted a fellowship night, a heartwarming reunion of current faculty members, retired professors, and alumni from various departments. CLA Dean, Asso. Prof. Roel F. Marcial, warmly welcomed the guests and introduced the evening’s esteemed speaker, Dr. Ramon M. Ochotorena. An alumnus of the Political Science Department, Dr. Ochotorena now serves as the Regional Director of the Office of Civil Defense Region IX and is a former President of the WMSU General Alumni Association.
Dr. Ochotorena, son of Dr. Gaudiosa Martinez Ochotorena, the first dean of what was then known as the Institute of Arts and Sciences, shared personal reflections on the college’s foundation. Established in 1972, the Institute was designed to offer both general education and specialized degree programs, providing students with a well-rounded liberal arts education.
He highlighted the pivotal role the founding educators played in building a college that would later evolve into the CLA. He remarked, “The College of Liberal Arts has always stood as a beacon of knowledge, where creativity and reason coalesce, and students are shaped not just academically, but personally and ethically.” He also spoke about his own experiences as a Political Science graduate from the college, noting how the education he received there profoundly shaped his professional and personal life.
The night also recognized former deans, retired faculty members, and alumni for their unwavering contributions to the growth and prestige of the college. WMSU President, Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, delivered the Words of Challenge, urging the college to strive for continuous growth and academic excellence. Drawing from Shakespeare’s The Tempest, she reminded the audience that “what’s past is prologue,” and that the next chapter of the college’s history would be written by those who continue to push the boundaries of innovation and education.
“As we honor this remarkable legacy tonight, let us remember that we are not merely products of our history; we are the architects of our future,” President Ochotorena declared. She emphasized the importance of critical thinking, inclusivity, and research, calling upon the college to continue its leadership in intellectual discourse and real-world impact.
Asso. Prof. Ryan H. Tangalin, President of the CLA Faculty Organization, delivered the closing remarks, thanking all attendees for their participation and encouraging them to carry the spirit of the celebration into the future.
The 50th anniversary celebration of the College of Liberal Arts not only honored its past but also set the stage for the continued pursuit of academic and social leadership, embodying the spirit of a true Crimson honed in the home of the champions. (LMP, PAO)
