By Cyrus a. Natividad

CPU Alumni Affair Office Building.

Did you know that CPU Alumni Association’s (CPUAAI) first batch of alumni were the first High School Graduating Class of 1921? On the evening of March 19, 1921 the class organized the Jaro Industrial School Alumni Association in coordination with advisers Mr. Alton Bigelow, Miss Bertha Houger, Dr Harland . & Mrs. Marion Stuart and Mr. Dineros.

This was the group to pave the way for cooperation, loyalty and organization of Centralian Alumni worldwide in the years to come. The JISAA Constitution stated “to keep all High School graduates in close contact with one another and with the affairs of the school”. The Alumni Association Constitution had undergone some amendments. As Jaro Industrial School changed to Central Phillipine School, the association’s name was changed to Central Philippine School Alumni Association.

At 100 years old today, CPU Alumni Association, Inc. CPUAAI flies high with 162 Alumni Association Chapters worldwide. Remarkably, each alumni chapter presents a wholesome project not only for itself or alumni chapter, but also for their beloved Alma Mater Central Philippine University. This is known every time a chapter celebrates its anniversary. The projects are realized in the form of construction, new building or structure, equipment, scholarships and grants in aid.

During the 100th Foundation Day celebration in October 2015, CPUFOAA launched its Grant-in-Aid and Recognition Awards Endowment Plan. These were in support of CPU’s poor but deserving students to complete their College Education.

Each year, the CPUAAI president and its officer create sensible projects for the alumni and the University- where the Alumni Affairs Office is based. At the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the CPU Alumni Association has extended several goods and cash donations to many barangays in Iloilo City, particularly those around the campus. It also extended cash donations and medical missions to lessen the impact of the Pandemic. Despite the effects, Centralian alumni associations worldwide were in touch in helping one another.

CPU Alumni Association President for 2021-2022 bared his future plans and projects for CPUAAI.