SUACONA Tipon 2009
Excepts taken from the Silliman University Website
By: Jocelyn “JONG” Somoza de la Cruz
Director of Alumni and External Affairs
Congratulations to SUACONA and especially to members of the Silliman Alumni South Florida Chapter for hosting the successful TIPON 2009.
More than 400 participants registered. With the theme “Leaving Our Imprint For Tomorrow: Raising the Bar of Excellence”, the 5th TIPON in Orlando , Florida took place on July 8-12. It was double work for the hosts because majority of them do not reside there but in other parts of Florida.
Truly, the Silliman Alumni South Florida members headed by their President, Gedie Ramora-Wilson deserve commendation for a job well done!
This was the first TIPON attended by many delegates from the Philippines. Financed by themselves or sponsored by alumni and friends, this was a good opportunity to bond with family and friends.
Members of the Board of Trustees present included Vice Chair Judge Candelario V. Gonzalez, Ambassador Antonio P. Villamor, Atty. Reinaldo M. Nolido and Atty. Grace A. Sumalpong.
Guest of Honor of the Rhoans Fraternity and Sorority International Reunion, Ms. Joy V. Salatandre of the Office of the President, who came with family and friends,and also Ms Dolly Felicitas of the Manila SU Liaison Office,who was sponsored by some US alumni.
From the Alumni Association (SAAI): National President Atty. Dorothy S. Cajayon and Yolanda V. Maxino, Executive Secretary. Aside from the Rhoans, there were many reunioning groups, such as the MedTech Society alumni and other organizations mostly from among the alumni of the College of Nursing.
At the lobby of the hotel was a display of the Tree of Life where one could simulate the Interactive Screen at the lobby of the Silliman University Portal West Building . Tokens of appreciation were also distributed to the Tree of Life donors.
For the first time, a continuing Education Program was offered by the nursing alumni consisting of lectures to update interested alumni on recent trends in their discipline. This was initiated in the hope that in future TIPONs other colleges will also offer similar activities.
In the evening, the welcome dinner dance was “full house.” Performers from different chapters showcased the various dances of the decades, including for the first time the Philippine delegation who performed a folk dance (Jota Manileña) to represent the 1900s era.
July 10 was devoted to the General Assembly. Updates were made by SUACONA, SAAI and the Alumni Affairs Office. President Malayang also gave a University report on the developments and plans for Silliman, followed by an open forum. A Harana for outgoing Chairperson Prof. Leonor Briones featured artist Michael Dadap (classical guitarist).
In the morning of July 11, a memorial service for departed alumni (who have passed away in the last two years) was held. This service, done as well in previous Tipons, is moving especially for those whose family members were named.
The rest of the day was for delegates to enjoy what Orlando has to offer.
The Gala Night had the outgoing Chair of SUACONA, Mr. Joel Pal, gave his valedictory address. Dr. Malayang also inducted the new set of officers headed by the new Chair, Ms Zeny Duran Bennett. A very solemn portion was devoted to the conferral of the Order of Horace B. Silliman to the following: SUACONA; Dr. and Mrs. Victor Rich and to Dr. and Mrs. Enrico Sobong.
The next TIPON which will be in 2011 will be held in Fairbanks , Alaska .
While in the US , Dr. Malayang touched base with alumni in Washington DC , Philadelphia , New York / New Jersey and Northern California . This was a good opportunity for those who were not able to attend TIPON to hear updates on our university.