Dr. Abella Embraces Leadership as the 11th CLSU President; Delivers First State of University Address

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) community celebrated the leadership of Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, during his investiture rites as the 11th University President held at the University Auditorium on June 18, 2024. Dr. Ronald L. Adamat, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner and Chair, CLSU Board of Regents, graced this momentous occasion and led the robing ceremony, presentation of presidential symbols and the oath taking ceremony in front of hundreds of guests, faculty, staff, students, friends and family members of Dr. Abella, as well as the live viewers of the event. “With CLSU being one of the best Higher Education Institutions (HEI) in the country, I urge all the CLSU stakeholders to give your 200% support to the leadership of Dr. Abella as he continues to take CLSU to the next level,” Dr. Adamat exclaimed. In his inaugural address, President Abella expressed his gratitude to all those who supported his journey to the presidency and recognized the dedication of the faculty and staff from the different programs. “Nakikita at pinapahalagahan namin kayong lahat. We see all of you. We value your contribution. We value your dedication.” President Abella stressed as he voice out his gratitude to the employees of the University including other stakeholders like the vendors, utility workers, security guards and transport service operators who play an indispensable role in achieving the goals of CLSU and making it a second home to the students. Dr. Abella then likened CLSU to a diamond which endures an immense challenge and pressure before becoming a jewel with great value and elegance. “The strength of a diamond is unbreakable just like our commitment to provide excellent service. We, as your leaders, will make sure to handle with great care our reputation, and to carve more path for others to follow,” said Dr. Abella. Furthermore, on his first State of the University Address (SUA), Dr. Abella highlighted CLSU's accomplishments during the first six months of his leadership including the strong foundation laid by the past administration, the fruits of all the initiatives and hard work of the people, and the promising future of CLSU. The SUA showcased CLSU’s initiative for curriculum advancement, pursuit for internationalization, facility improvement, and the production and utilization of technologies for different commodities which have contributed to the six-decade legacy of CLSU. Featuring the achievements of the university, he recognized various faculty who are recipients of distinguished awards and commended the outstanding students for their exemplary performances in poster presentations, journalism, photography, and quiz bee competitions. Meanwhile, in enhancing global visibility, Dr. Abella mentioned the rankings attained by the university in various local and international rankings, specifically in World University with Real Impact, Times Higher Education, Webometrics, and the EduRank. “Our consistent strong performance in various rankings showcases CLSU’s growing international reputation, reflecting our dedication in maintaining high standards and our ability to compete with leading institutions worldwide,“ Dr. Abella added. Highlighting the sustainable practices of CLSU, he enumerated the initiatives on a regular clean-up drive, wellness programs and innovation on food production through the Futures Thinking Program, using of carabao hide in making high-quality leather bags, shoes and other products. Also, he emphasized the newest collaboration with the Department of Energy in the project on decarbonizing the commercial aviation industry using Sustainable Aviation Fuel. For future endeavors, President Abella outlined the plans on infrastructure development and the priority establishments during his term. He also highlighted the university's commitment to upholding quality education through various assessments such as ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA), Institutional Accreditation, and the Philippine Quality Awards. Concluding his SUA, Dr. Abella emotionally declared his passion, commitment and love for the whole CLSU Community as he accepted the great responsibility of leading the institution and upholding its legacy. “As we look to the future, we do so with confidence, knowing that together, we will continue to make a profound impact on our students, our community, and the world. Tulad ng sinabi ko noong public forum, mahal ko kayo at hanggang sa huling araw ng aking termino, mahal na mahal ko pa rin kayo, maraming salamat po!” - Dr. Evaristo A. Abella The investiture rites were attended by the Members of the Board of Regents, SUC Presidents from various regions, heads of government agencies, industry partners, local government officials, former CLSU Presidents and employees, alumni, students, and other guests and visitors. The event was also witnessed by almost 500 online viewers from different regions and countries and generated 13,000 online engagements as of writing.