SLSU Celebrates Dr. Lourna S. Acaso as Outstanding DOST VIII–SEI Scholarship University Coordinator at the 2025 In Touch with Excellence Awards

Southern Leyte State University proudly honors Dr. Lourna S. Acaso, the University’s long-serving DOST Scholarship Coordinator, for being recognized as the Outstanding DOST VIII–SEI Scholarship University Coordinator during the 2025 In Touch with Excellence Awards held on November 24, 2025, at the Radiant Hotel in Tacloban City.

Organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST–SEI), the annual In Touch with Excellence ceremony celebrates scholar-graduates and institutional partners who exemplify academic excellence, commitment, and service to the nation. This year’s event brought together scholars, coordinators, and DOST officials from across Eastern Visayas.

Dr. Acaso, who served as SLSU’s DOST Scholarship Coordinator from 2000 to 2025, has long been regarded as the heart of the University’s scholarship implementation. For twenty-five years, she became a mentor, guide, and second parent to generations of scholars—ensuring consistent support, guidance, and motivation throughout their academic journeys. Her leadership strengthened SLSU’s long-standing partnership with DOST Eastern Visayas, contributing to the effective and commendable administration of scholarship programs in Southern Leyte.

The award was formally presented to Dr. Acaso by DOST Region VIII Regional Director, Dr. John Glenn G. Ocaña, together with Southern Leyte Provincial Director, Dr. Ramil T. Uy. Their tribute highlighted her unwavering dedication, compassion, and the deep, lasting impact of her service—reflected not only in the achievements of countless scholars but also in the strengthened collaboration between DOST and SLSU.

Joining the recognition ceremony were individuals who witnessed firsthand Dr. Acaso’s years of dedication: Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for  Research, Innovation and Extension Services of SLSU, DOST Scholarship Technical Coordinator Ms. Jean Gay Ragub, and PSTO Southern Leyte Scholarship Technical Coordinator Ms. Emee Sheila Pelona. Their presence underscored the collective appreciation of the DOST family and the SLSU community for Dr. Acaso’s invaluable role in shaping the region’s future scientists, engineers, educators, and innovators.

This recognition is especially meaningful as it marks the second time that Dr. Acaso has received this distinguished award from DOST Region VIII—further solidifying her legacy as one of the region’s most dedicated and respected scholarship coordinators.

Southern Leyte State University extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Lourna S. Acaso for this exceptional and well-deserved recognition. Her passion for service, remarkable consistency, and genuine care for scholars continue to inspire the entire SLSU community and the next generation of achievers.