Page 13 - Binder 1 GRC SJ UPAAA 21-draft

MESSAGE

Distinguished alumni and friends of the University of the Philippines from all over the
world, I offer you on behalf of the UPAA in America Inc. and the UPAA of Nevada
my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for every positive energy you contributed to this
first-ever virtual gathering of resilient and relentless visionaries.
st
What made our 21 Grand Reunion and Convention globally significant and different
from the previous ones were the restrictions posed by a global catalyst – the Covid 19
pandemic. We were not able to hug each other, laugh noisily above the din of clinking
wine glasses, nor line-dance in a grand ballroom. However, we were more tech savvy than usual, more committed
than ever in understanding phrases like “screen sharing,” “landing page,” and “breakout rooms,” and more aware
than before about the infinite possibilities of cyber connection.
We were all resilient and relentless in arising from our fears and heartaches. We became visionaries in seeing
beyond the limitations imposed upon us by world conditions.

We were joined by media supporters, family members, business partners, and fellow believers. We were
encouraged by the honor and excellence of our mentors and peers in various fields of human potential.

Remember our Fellowship Night when we grouped in virtual rooms, competed, laughed, and cheered our winners,
donors, and magnanimous sponsors. Remember how we were invigorated by the heartfelt messages of the
President of UPAAA and of the Vice President of our beloved motherland, Her Excellency Leonor Robredo.

We heard stories of innovations created and discovered during the pandemic. We were inspired by frontline
professionals who served their communities beyond the call of duty and were reminded of initiatives and
collaborations that emerged from the challenges of the past two years. We learned how successful engagements
with the alumni’s generosity managed to impact the university’s constituents. And we listened to the man whose
leadership brought UP to even greater heights – President Danilo Concepcion.
Remember how we rejoiced in the awarding of our illustrious alumni whose brilliance illuminated 16 categories of
professional skills and services, and how we welcomed UPAAA’s new set of officers and board. We were
enlightened by our President’s State of the University address, as well as motivated by our alumni community
leaders who walk their talk. Our reunion was concluded by the all-encompassing message of the vibrant Chair of
the GRC, Ethel Rubio, followed by the exciting virtual parade of our 100+ Jubilarians.
Above all, remember that up to this day, we are still affirmed and enveloped by our theme, ARISE: Pagbangon at
Parangal!
Here’s to keeping the UP spirit burning with joyful dynamism and synergy until the next reunion! MABUHAY
and PADAYON!

Dorothy “Dot” Lenore Llariza Tome
st
Vice Chair, 21 Grand Reunion and Convention
President, UP Alumni Association of Nevada
Life Coach, Facilitator, Author