Northwestern University conducts 89th Commencement Exercises
Northwestern University mounted the 89th Joint Commencement Exercises on September 30, 2021, 2:00 PM, via its official Facebook page.
Of the 421 candidates for graduation, 377 were graduates of undergraduate courses, 19 were completing their master’s degree, and 25 new Juris Doctors.
The 2021 graduates were led by Fely Rose L. Patigdas, this year’s sole Cum Laude, who is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, together with Stanlee Jay D. Arquero, Cum Distinctione, finishing the 3-year academic requirements in Maritime Engineering.
Loyalty Awardees this year are Mark Philip A. Guarino, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering; Reece Clyde A. Retamal, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science; and Rommel S. Devera, who graduated with the 3-year academic requirements in Maritime Engineering.
Atty. Ferdinand S. Nicolas, University President, introduced the commencement speaker Vanesa Lee-Calixto, Director for Fund Generation and Business Development of the Philippine Red Cross. Dir. Vanesa shared her four simple life lessons that brought her to navigate her own life. “First, life doesn’t always go as planned; second, we have to be lost in our 20s as long as we know how to go back; third, always find good mentors in your life; and lastly, (having) a positive outlook in life, with your attitude and mental strength,” she said.
“If one door closes to you, another door opens, life always has a way to connect you from one point to another, as long as you keep moving forward. We have to work hard for what we want and what we would like to become. It’s okay to be lost sometimes as long as you are there, be with the people who push you and help you in growing,” she added.
Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Chita Gonzales, said in her Welcome Remarks: “To our dear graduating students, I say, thank you for making us part of your educational journey. May the NWU values and spirit be your guiding star as you roam the world near and far after graduation…may you continue to inspire others and may all your wishes come true. Take the lessons that you learned during your time at Northwestern University, not just in the past few months but your college career and let them guide you, inspire you, and remind you that you are a strong Northwesternian.”
VPAA Gonzales petitioned for conferment of degrees and titles to the graduates while President Nicolas conferred and awarded the degrees and titles to the students.
The graduates reminisced memories of their journey as they sang their graduation song—Bruno Mars’ “Today My Life Begins”—performed by the After Five band. Mr. Reece Clyde Retamal, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, led the students in their Pledge of Loyalty while Dr. Roseli Aurelio, Vice President of the NWU Alumni Association (University Chapter), welcomed them to the association.
