SLSU Hosts ‘Inspiring Women: Alumni Connect’ to Empower Future Leaders

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) successfully hosted the "Inspiring Women: Alumni Connect, Talk for Future Leaders" on March 26, 2025, at 9:30 AM via Zoom. The event brought together esteemed alumni and university leaders to inspire and guide future women leaders through insightful discussions on inclusion, leadership, and career empowerment.

The event began with opening remarks from Ms. Jona Mae C. Espere, Director of Gender and Development, who stressed the importance of creating an environment where women can thrive as leaders.

Next, Dr. Jude A. Duarte, the University President, delivered an Inspirational Message, highlighting SLSU’s dedication to gender equality and leadership growth. Dr. Duarte pointed out that while women are often underrepresented in leadership roles, research shows that those who do lead often exhibit exceptional qualities, including compassion, intelligence, and ethical behavior.

The first session, "Innovating for Inclusion: Women’s Role in Shaping an Equitable Future," featured Dr. Evelyn Bacarra Tablante, Provincial Director of DOST-SAMAR PSTO and an accomplished PhD-TM alumna of SLSU. Introduced by Dr. Adolfo C. Ancheta, Dean of the Faculty of Technology, Dr. Tablante shared her expertise on how women are driving innovation to build a more inclusive society.

In the second session, "From Campus to Career: Empowering the Next Generation of Women Leaders," Ms. Liz Grace Darene Rubiso-Mendoza, a BSHRTM alumna and Cluster Groups and Events Manager at Paramount Hotels, inspired participants with her journey from student life to professional success. She was introduced by Dr. Dinah F. Catamco, Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, who underscored the significance of mentorship in shaping young women’s careers.

The event also featured a Q&A session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers and seek guidance on leadership and career progression.

To conclude the event, Ms. Irene Marcel H. Lagua, Head of Alumni Affairs and Academe Industry Linkages, delivered the Closing Remarks. With Mr. Exekiel Ed A. Elizan as the Master of Ceremony, the event was a resounding success, leaving participants empowered and motivated. Through initiatives like this, SLSU reaffirms its dedication to nurturing strong, capable women leaders who will shape a brighter and more inclusive future.