For over 121 years, WMSU has stood as a living monument to the hopes and dreams for its students by nurturing minds, shaping communities, and producing world-class professionals. As WMSU marks its 121st founding anniversary, it does not only look back with pride, but it also looks forward with purpose.
WMSU, founded on July 18, 1904, celebrated its founding anniversary on August 8, 2025, at the Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium. The event also doubled as a grand welcome for new and returning students as the university opened Academic Year 2025β2026.
In her heartfelt message, Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, University President, reminded everyone that WMSU is a product of generations of visionaries of its past presidents, administrators, and faculty members who poured their dedication and love into building a university that would not just survive but thrive through the test of time. βOur journey to excellence has not been without its challenges,β she said, βbut each one has only strengthened our resolve.β Now in her second term as president, Dr. Ochotorena shared that she carries with her a love for WMSU that is both humbling and inspiring. She also extended her gratitude to the students for choosing WMSU as the place where they would be honed and guided in their chosen fields.
Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Nursia M. Barjose, echoed these sentiments during the opening ceremony. In her speech, she emphasized that WMSU has long stood as a beacon of knowledge and innovation not only in Mindanao but also beyond. She described how the university has bloomed into a premier state university, constantly adapting to the evolving needs of society while producing generations of leaders, professionals, and nation-builders.
True to its values, WMSU also took time to honor a student whose integrity captured the hearts of many. Daiyan D. Garingan, a Bachelor of Science in Islamic Studies student, was commended for returning a pouch containing ATM and ID cards, pieces of jewelry, and more than β±500,000 in cash. She reflected the values the university strives to instill in every student.
The celebration was also an opportunity to formally introduce WMSUβs current officials. Among them was Dr. Joel G. Fernando, Vice President for Research and Extension, who reminded the audience that the event was more than just a celebration, it was a homecoming filled with memories, triumphs, and dreams fulfilled. βLike a mountain that does not apologize for the space it takes,β he said, βWMSU takes its rightful place in shaping the minds and hearts of generations.β He added, βWe are not just an institution; we are a movement of knowledge, of service, and of hope.β
The university also prepared a range of activities to mark the anniversary. One of the highlights was the WMSU Foundation Day Sports Festival 2025, led by Dr. Adrian P. Semorlan, President of the WMSU Faculty Union Association, Inc. Faculty members from different colleges and administrative personnel from various offices engaged in sports activities like pickleball and big ball volleyball.
The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services also organized a lineup of student-centered events. Various student organizations set up booths around the campus, adding color and excitement to the celebration and giving students a space to interact, participate, and showcase their talents and advocacies.
WMSU is not resting on its laurels. Plans for smart classrooms, enhanced research facilities, and global partnerships are underway, but what truly defines WMSU is not just its infrastructure or achievements, what defines WMSU is its people who make up its heart and soul. It is the students who dream big, the faculty who dedicate themselves to teaching, the administrators who push for innovation, and the alumni who carry the WMSU spirit wherever they go.
Hereβs to 121 years of growth, service, and impact. Long live WMSU! (AZ Salim-PAO)
