Carlos Hilado Memorial State University welcomed delegates from Madonna University in an interactive exchange at Talisay (Main) Campus on June 15, 2023.
The delegation visited CHMSU in line with the Fulbright-Hays Curriculum Development Group Project Abroad in the Philippines. Cristina Michele Tucker, PhD, Project Director and Associate Professor of Social Work, led the delegation composed of faculty and graduates of Madonna University.
According to Rhoderick K. Samonte, Director for Internationalization and External Relations, CHMSU’s partnership with Madonna University, a Catholic University in Michigan, USA, was already established in 2019. However, it was not able to fully take-off due to the pandemic. Samonte expressed his appreciation to the delegation for making an effort in coming to CHMSU.
The delegation was given a festive welcome with a performance from the Student Society of Physical Education Majors. This was followed by the introduction of CHMSU officials by Jay B. Estrellas, EdD, Vice President for Academic Affairs and the introduction of delegates by Dr. Tucker.
The program continued with a short video presentation on the history and journey of CHMSU towards being a university.
In his message, President Norberto P. Mangulabnan, PhD gave his warm welcome and thanks to the visitors. Mangulabnan also added that he looks forward to opportunities of cultural and academic exchanges between the two universities in the near future.
The audience was treated to another intermission, a song performance by Gino Abelido, Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
Each delegate received a token of appreciation from CHMSU, which were products of the NOCDELIGHT FabLab.
After the opening program and introductions, the delegation participated in small group discussions with college deans, program chairpersons, and students. The groups were divided according to disciplines namely 1) Education, 2) Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Social Science, and 3) Food Trades Technology and Hospitality Management. During the sessions, the delegates were given a brief overview of the CHMSU programs and discuss areas where exchanges can potentially take place.
The activity closed with lunch and socialization at the Dining Hall, Green Building.
