CHAMPS Flock, A Grand Parade of Excellence and Academic Diversity
As part of the 93rd Founding Anniversary celebration, Northwestern University showcased a vibrant parade incorporated into Laoag City’s Pamulinawen Festival on February 6. The event featured floats designed by NWU’s different colleges, exhibiting the university’s different academic programs.
The parade journeyed from the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena to Aurora Park, drawing cheers from the crowd.
During the event, Atty. Ferdinand S. Nicolas, University President, delivered a heartfelt message emphasizing NWU’s dedication to the Ilocano youth. He highlighted the university’s role in nurturing future leaders, professionals, and athletes, ensuring their success in all aspects of life. Atty. Nicolas also highlighted the importance of the partnership between NWU and Laoag City, a collaboration that extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community, particularly as the city prepares to host the Palarong Pambansa in April.
“We are very lucky to continue our partnership with the Laoag city given as we approach the Palarong Pambansa this April with all our students and athletes training at our campus ground,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Mayor Michael Marcos Keon, City Mayor of Laoag, expressed his gratitude for NWU’s unwavering support in educational development. He lauded the university’s commitment to the city’s youth and its role in preparing athletes for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa.
Mayor Keon also highlighted the city’s recent success in the Regional Athletic Association Meet (R1AA), attributing it in part to the crucial support of NWU. He specifically acknowledged the university’s generosity in allowing the city government to utilize its track and football field for athlete training, a testament to the strong partnership between the two institutions.
“Because of your support, we are the defending champions of the R1AA, and we are confident in our preparations for the Palarong Pambansa,” Mayor Keon stated.
Another highlight of the celebration was the Float competition. The College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS) emerged victorious with a stunning “Fountain of Knowledge” float. The College of Maritime Education (COME) secured second place while the College of International Hospitality Tourism and Management (CIHTM) won third place.
