By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

Three students from Central Philippine University (CPU) emerged as winners in an essay writing contest organized by the Scranton Women’s Leadership Center in South Korea. On April 20, 2023, April A. Paligumba, Lady Kyla S. Balibagoso, and Mary Chris V. Osano received news that their essays had impressed the judges. The online awards ceremony was held via Zoom on that day.

The theme of the contest is “Cultural Diversity and Inclusiveness.” The content can include “personal life-experiences, theories on the theme, creative ideas and activities for cultural diversity and inclusiveness in the community.” They submitted their essays last February 20, 2023.

Paligumba, a BS ABE-3 student, won for her essay titled “A Cultural Warrior’s Journey: The Power of Art.” Balibagoso, a BS EM-2 student, wrote an essay titled “Weaving Reverence: Where Diversity Meets Inclusivity.” Meanwhile, Osano, a BS SW-4 student, submitted an essay titled “Learning about diverse culture and inclusiveness through my social work internship.” The winning essays can be read at the Scranton Women’s Leadership Center website in the “Scranton Square” tab. You may read it at https://www.scrantoncenter.org/scrantonsquare/ideas.asp

Scranton Women’s Leadership Center has a vision of empowering women to realize their full potential and leadership through education. The winners of the contest will be selected as Scranton Scholars for one year and will receive an additional US$500 scholarship. In addition, the Scranton Women’s Leadership Center will add a $1,500 scholarship on behalf of the winners. The award will be distributed by Dr. Margen A. Java, Director of the Office of Student Development Programs.

The achievement of these three Centralians in the essay writing contest is a testament to the quality of education provided by CPU, which values not only academic excellence but also the holistic development of its students.