SESAM gathers alumni for a virtual reunion
The School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM) held the Alumni Virtual General Assembly on July 22 via video conference to foster a sense of social connection among alumni and gain support for its endeavors.
Dr. Rico C. Ancog, 6th SESAM dean and first alumnus to hold the position, who is also the outgoing president of SESAM Alumni Association, presented the School’s accomplishments and plans, as well as the future activities of the alumni.
Also discussed were nominees to the UPLB Alumni Association (UPLBAA) Awards and the SESAM Outstanding Alumni Awards.
SESAM is going to recognize outstanding alumni in research and development, academic leadership, and government service during the 103rd UPLB Loyalty Day celebration on Oct. 9.
In his opening remarks delivered during the program, Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. said that UPLB needs to be at the forefront of critical issues especially today with the devastating effects of climate change becoming more severe with each passing year.
“In line with the SESAM Sails theme, we want to know from you what the most pressing issues are, what solutions you have in mind, and how UPLB can use our resources to help implement these solutions,” Chancellor Camacho said.
He enjoined the SESAM alumni to collaborate and consolidate their efforts toward environmental sustainability and disaster mitigation and in so doing, effect real change that will protect the environment, the natural resources, and the community that depend on them.
Forester Leo R. Ballesfin, president of the UPLB Alumni Association, gave an inspirational message during the program.
Dr. Eileen Lorena M. Mamino, director of the Office of the Alumni Relations (OAR) and assistant to the chancellor, thanked the SESAM alumni who attended the general assembly and called for support for the programs and projects of the OAR.
The OAR projects, according to Dr. Mamino, include the “Kaagapay Program,” which provides assistance to students in need of connectivity in their classes. The program is being funded by UPLB alumni.
Another project is the Alumni Tracking, which aims to facilitate establishing connections with the alumni.
She also announced that UPLBAA will be launching the UPLB Alumni-Industry Council, a partnership between the alumni and the industry sector that aims to provide assistance to students with their on-the-job training.
The event gathered 114 SESAM alumni from here and around the globe. Dr. Nicomedes D. Briones, retired SESAM faculty member, formally closed the program. (Thaddeus P. Lawas and Cherry S. Padilla)
