It was the time of the year to celebrate the precious gift that is MMSU, now 34 years old.

Morning of Jan. 6, an ecumenical thanksgiving service was held at the Teatro Ilocandia, followed by the opening of the garden show, foodarama, trade fair, book exhibit, and free health services. Ms. Sarah U. Dabucon, owner-manager of SCUFYND, shared her “entrepreneurial gems of thoughts.”

Held in the afternoon was the anniversary convocation where Pres. Miriam E. Pascua delivered her State-of-the-University Address. She presented MMSU’s achievements and prospects in line with the theme, “Redefining Excellence through Internationalization of Programs.” Hon. Li Kewu, consul and head of post of the Chinese Consulate in Laoag City, was guest of honor and speaker. Also during the convocation program, the 2011 PRAISE and Presidential awardees were honored. (See related story on page 2).

Professional Journey Across Cultures, a forum where MMSU employees who gained international exposure share about their experiences and insights, was staged morning of Jan. 9. Ms. Charmagne Balantac talked about her six-month training in China where she took up a language course while Mr. Rommel C. Dascil shared his experiences at Clark University, Massachusetts, USA, where he finished a master’s degree in International Development and Social Change under a Fulbright Scholarship. This year, an exposure trip within the Philippines was also highlighted with Prof. Beatriz Malab presenting the “Best of Bohol Province.”

The Paay-ayam Ilocana took off at the Sports Complex in the afternoon. In the spirit of solidarity and fun, employees and students played traditional Ilocano games like panagbuong ti banga, pabitin, and baka-baka.

On Jan. 13, alumni paid tribute to their alma mater in a gathering held at the Teatro Ilocandia. Among the activities conducted were the oath taking of the new set of officers, launching of the Student Assistance Program, and a bingo social cum raffle draw.  (See related story on page 7).

MMSU was founded Jan. 6, 1978 by virtue of Presidential Decree 1279 issued by President Ferdinand E. Marcos. Academic Affairs Vice President Wilma C. Natividad served as overall coordinator of the 34th anniversary celebration.