“At AdZU, we have chosen a path filled with meaning and purpose… In AdZU, each day is a chance to live a life enriched by service to others.”- University President Fr Guillrey Anthony “Ernald” M Andal, SJ during the Solemnity of St Ignatius of Loyola and Service Awards 2023 July 28, 2023.
If you ask an Atenean why they have chosen to stay within the institution for so many years, you would expect to hear a colorful collection of responses. But surely, a binding essence exists that connects them all – the love shared by fellow colleagues, and the cherished Ignatian values that every Atenean adheres to.
Today’s celebration of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Institutional Service Awards is distinct from the ones before it as this is the first one held together with the new University President Fr Guillrey Anthony “Ernald” M Andal, SJ.
Opening the day’s activities was the traditional Eucharistic Celebration for the Solemnity of Ateneo’s Patron Saint Ignatius of Loyola presided over by our resident Jesuit clergy around 9 AM at the University Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was a mass honoring the inspiring life of St Ignatius of Loyola whose feast day falls on Monday, July 31, 2023. The Holy Eucharist also blessed the Service Awards recipients acknowledging the effort and loyalty they have displayed over the years that mirror that of the works of Ignatius himself.
Following this, the AdZU Community gathered at the Multi-Purpose Covered Courts 1 (MPCC 1) for the event proper of the Institutional Service Awards. Representing this year’s honorees, Mr Hezekiah A Concepcion, a long-time professor of the Ateneo, shared snippets of his storied journey in the institution. He cites three main things as his core reasons for staying in the Ateneo – security, spirituality, and solidarity with the community.
AdZU owes its existence to all the outstanding men and women who make up the entirety of this living, breathing institution. Their tireless dedication, effort powered by magis, and the sincere care and love that extends beyond the walls of the university are all truly great reasons for joy, thanksgiving, and celebration.
To all our awardees, may your passion inspire many more to excel in everything that they do. With you as our shining beacons, we look forward to seeing AdZU soar to even greater heights in the future Pro deo et Patria.
Congratulations, Service Awards honorees and Feliz Fiesta di San Ignacio de Loyola!
