THE whole University of Regina Carmeli (URC) community and other well-wishers coming from different sectors stood witness to the formal installation rites and investiture ceremonies of the third university president, Sister Editha S. Zerna, OSA.
The affair, held on June 5, 2010 at the Atis Hall of the BarCIE International Center, commenced with a processional where all members, in academic gowns, caps and hoods lined up and at the Grand Marshall's signal, proceeded to the Atis Hall while Pomp and Circumstance was played.
The procession was led by the National Colors, Grand Marshall, faculty, non-teaching personnel, guests, board of trustees and the President Zerna and ASOLC Superior General, Sr. Imelda Mora, OSA.
The Invocation was led by Msgr. Angelito Santiago, parish priest of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish and was followed by the investiture rites that includes the presentation of the president and reading of the appointment, administration of oath, imposition of the presidential cape, presentation of URC vision, mission and goals, presentation of the University medallion and mace, presentation of the Bible and cross, and the third President's profession of faith and benediction.
In her Inaugural Address, Sr. Edith, as she is more dotingly called, laid down her vision of the future for URC saying, "I will leave no stone unturned in knowing what has driven this great institution to success, and what will drive us over the next decade."
In the near future, she hopes to see the university as a Center for Training and Development and over the next decade, as a Center of Excellence in the Province of Bulacan and more significantly, in Central Luzon.
Among those present during the event who gave their messages of felicitations were Most Reverend Jose Oliveros, D.D. (Bishop, Diocese of Malolos), Dr. Maria Consolacion Dela Cruz Cristobal (OIC, CHEDRO III), Atty. Antonio Abad, Jr. (Chairman, URC BOT), Sr. Puri Alma Peña, OSA (President, La Consolacion College, Caloocan), Dr. Virgilio Almario (National Artist for Literature), Mr. Manuel Caparas (President, URC Alumni Association), Mrs. Arminda Cruz (President, URC Basic Education Department PTC), and Dr. Epitacio Palispis (President, FAAP).
Also present was Sr. Niceta M. Vargas, OSA, former URC president, who handed over the Plaque of Appreciation to Sr. Edith. Sr. Nicet has led URC for a period of five academic years from 2005 to 2010.