Saint Mary’s University honored a total of 1,957 students who exhibited academic excellence and dedicated service to the University through a recognition ceremony held at the Tonus Gymnasium on Oct. 16, 2024, at 7:30 am. The event featured a keynote address from University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, alongside an inspiring message from Mr. Therence G. Batulon, President and CEO of Banko Lagawe, who emphasized the roles of leadership and resilience in achieving success.

Awarded during the ceremony were three Gold Merit Scholars with a 100% tuition discount, 93 Silver Merit Scholars with a 50% tuition discount, and 288 Bronze Merit Scholars with a 25% tuition discount. The academic scholars are those students who exemplified good academic performance the previous semester, as evidenced by their high general weighted average.

A total of 301 Dean’s Listers were also honored.

Also, 960 entrance scholars were recognized during the event. These new students presented evidence of good academic performance from their previous school, such as Latin honors, with highest honors, with high honors, and with honors.

The ceremony also recognized 67 service grantees, composed of student leaders, varsity players, and performers of various performing groups in SMU. 

Key awards were presented by the deans of various schools, including Dr. Mayvelyn S. Covita (Graduate Studies), Atty. Epifanio Delbert G. Galima III (Law), Dr. Regina D. Ramel, CPA (Accountancy and Business), Engr. Carina S. Mallillin (Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology), Dr. Joman J. Baliton (Health and Natural Sciences), and Dr. Felipe V. Nantes (Teacher Education and Humanities). Rev. Fr. Philip A. Yu, Jr., CICM, Vice President for Mission and Identity, awarded the entrance scholars and service grantees.

The event concluded with a heartfelt response from Sheena F. Cabauatan, a BSED Math 3 student and Gold Merit Awardee. The recognition ceremony was a testament to Saint Mary’s University’s dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and the holistic development of its students.