NWU Welcomes a New Era of Service
To formally grasp the key of responsibility, newly elected leaders and officers took their oath during the 2024-2025 Inauguration and Grand Oath-Taking Ceremony on September 27 at the Aquino Multi-Purpose Center. The program was centered on the theme, “Leaders Empowered to Achieve and Deliver” empowering the officers to be more and achieve more.
Dr. Charliemane A. Bullalayao, Vice President for Academic Affairs Officer-in-Charge, delivered a congratulatory message to the student leaders, emphasizing the vital role of leaders in shaping the university’s culture and direction.
“As leaders, you will play a vital role in shaping the culture and direction of our dear university. Your actions and decisions will have a reflective impact on the students’ experiences fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and academically enriching environment. I urge you to uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and service,” he urged.
“Let your leadership be guided by the core values of our institution, the CHAMPS. By exemplifying these values, you will not only inspire your peers but also contribute to the positive reputation of our university,” Dr. Bullalayao added.
Moreover, Atty. Ferdinand S. Nicolas, University President, shared his insights and aspirations for the future of the university, encouraging student-leaders to strive towards achieving these objectives in their communities. “I congratulate you even now for volunteering your time, your competence, your skills because leadership is not an easy task,” said Atty. Nicolas.
Atty. Nicolas also mentioned the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in his speech. He pledged to support the student-leaders in achieving their goals and working together to address the sustainable development goals in the community.
Additionally, former Supreme Student Council President Jerden Wael A. Urbano formally handed over the key of responsibility to the incoming SSC President Stephanie Jane Bonilla. He reflected on his term and expressed gratitude for the student council’s unwavering commitment.
“For the students, to the students, for Northwesternians. This tagline has guided my actions as President of the council and remains deeply rooted in my commitment to serve my fellow Northwesternians,” he stated.
Mr. Urbano then entrusted Ms. Stephanie Jane Bonilla with the responsibility of leading the student body wishing her alongside her fellow student-leaders success and a productive term.
Stephanie Jane Bonilla, the newly elected SSC President, emphasized the importance of empowering others and the collective responsibility of leaders to shape the future. She stated, “Leadership is not about commanding; it is about empowering others. My goals can ensure that each of you has the platform, resources, and support to bring your vision to life. Let us not forget we are standing at a moment in history, where the decisions we make, the actions we take, will define not just our present but the future of those who will come after us.”
Furthermore, Prof. Agustina A. Dancel-Matias, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs, concluded the event by thanking participants and advisers for their dedication. She shared her vision of “Chance, Cause, and Change,” urging everyone to embrace the opportunity to create a better Northwestern University.
“You all have the chance to cause change and let this be a change for a better Northwestern University, better Northwesternians, and more relevant individuals in their respective communities,” said Prof. Matias.
She called on the leaders to turn their visions into reality, despite challenges, with the full support of the university administration. With shared aspirations and strong leadership, the university looks forward to a transformative and successful academic year.
