NEWS | COED celebrates excellence, service at annual awards ceremony

The College of Education (COED) recognized faculty members, students, and organizations for their academic excellence, research and extension work, competition representation, leadership, and service during its annual awards ceremony, Diwa’t Hiraya: Pagdiriwang ng Kahusayan, at Claro M. Recto Hall on Wednesday.

In her opening remarks, Dean Rosemariebeth R. Dizon highlighted students who represented COED and the university in university-wide, national, and international competitions, as well as graduates who passed the board examinations.

She commended their efforts in bringing recognition and honor to the college.

Keynote speaker Aljean Candar, 10th placer in the September and November 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (Secondary Level), shared a message to the awardees, emphasizing that achievement goes beyond recognition and awards.

“The world does not need more people who are merely impressive. But the world needs more people who are dependable. People who are honest, compassionate, and can be trusted. Who uses knowledge responsibly,” Candar said.

In his speech, Candar shared three reminders for the awardees: to remain grateful, to pursue excellence with integrity, and to be useful to others.

He encouraged them to acknowledge the support of their families, professors, classmates, and God in their achievements.

Moreover, he urged them to pursue high standards without compromising their values.

Candar also encouraged them to measure success not only through achievements but through how they use their knowledge and skills to help others.

“Do not simply ask how successful you can become. Ask how useful you can become. At the end of the day, the greatest recognition is not the medal around your neck or the certificates that you will receive; it is the positive difference,” he added.

Meanwhile, faculty members were among the first awardees recognized for their performance, extension programs, and research contributions.

Special citations were also awarded to students who represented the College of Education and the university in university-wide, national, and international competitions and events.

Student organizations and former officers were also recognized for their service to the college.

Additionally, academic distinctions were awarded to Rank 1 students per program and per block.

Students were also recognized for their leadership, service, and research contributions.

Among the organizations recognized was the Future Business Teacher Organization (FBTO), which received the Gawad Hiraya sa Natatanging Serbisyo award.

In closing, Associate Dean Caroline T. Sumande recognized the efforts of students, administrators, faculty members, and staff whose dedication and service contributed to the success of the college.

She also highlighted the contributions of the COED community to the college’s activities and programs.

___

Article by Chan Jasper Sarvida & Ma. Theresa Faith Alberto

Photo by Antonia Dela Cruz & Tristan Miras

Layout by Gracielle Allyson Batalla