By Brett Andrew Rikke Bungcayao, STRATCOM Correspondent

Mr. Arlene John Peralta (MMSU ‘89), the president of the Normalites of Hawaii and Charge Nurse at the Hawaii State Hospital, led the distinguished speakers in the 2025 MMSU Alumni Success Stories on January 31 at Teatro Ilocandia.

Participated by senior college students at the university, Mr. Peralta shared his narrative about transitioning from the field of education to nursing. He told the students to not be afraid of taking risks, as life is a continuous learning process.

As a reviewer in the National Council Licensure Examination, the board examination for nurses in the US, he highlighted the importance of giving back to the community. He also inspired students to share their experiences and knowledge with other people in the future.

Aside from Mr. Peralta, Ms. Mindaline Tanpiengco (MMSU ‘85), Senior Nurse Manager at Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro, New Jersey, USA, and  Pinili Vice Mayor Maynard Francis Bumanglag (MMSU ‘98),  also recounted their memorable experiences and gave inspiring narratives to the students.

Alumni Regent Gwyneth Quidang told the students that they would also be the future successful alumni of the university. “You will be the main character of your success story. Your journey will have plot twists, but with hard work and determination – you will achieve success.”

MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco expressed how the alumni have shaped the legacy of the university by excelling in their respective fields. “What makes our alumni remarkable is their dedication to giving back to their alma matter. This effort embodies the true spirit of our institution,” she said.

“This Alumni Success Stories aligns seamlessly with our 47th Foundation Anniversary theme, Cultivating Minds and Transforming Future,” Dr. Franco added.

Meanwhile, during the event, eight selected senior college students from the College of Teacher Education received scholarship stipends worth P5,000 each from the Normalites of Hawaii (NOH), personally awarded by Mr. Peralta. The recipients were Justin Dominic Peredo, Emmanuel Pascua, Cristine Joy Acoba, Ras Ian Harvey Villanueva, Meldrich Cudal, Deo Frank Aguinaldo, Karen Venice Dangcil, and Sarah Mae Grace Antonio.

The stipend distribution followed the signing of a memorandum of agreement between NOH and MMSU in October 2024 for the scholarship program. As outlined in the partnership, the university oversees the rigorous screening of recommended scholars through program coordinators and department chairs of their respective degree programs.

The Alumni Success Stories event is one of the annual highlights during the university's 47th founding anniversary celebration in January.