By Mikee Natinga Norico
Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences of Central Philippine University, poses for a group photo with fellow awardees after receiving the Plaque of Outstanding Leadership in Education during the UNIFFIED-Philippines seminar and recognition program held on May 16, 2026, at Hotel del Rio.
Central Philippine University (CPU) continues to gain recognition in the field of academic leadership as Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, received the prestigious Plaque of Outstanding Leadership in Education during the United Federation of Filipino-American Educators (UNIFFIED)-Philippines Seminar and Recognition Program held on May 16, 2026, at Hotel del Rio, Iloilo City.
The recognition was conferred by UNIFFIED-Philippines in acknowledgment of Dr. Fernandez’s exemplary leadership and significant contributions to education and academic development.
UNIFFIED-Philippines, an affiliate chapter of UNIFFIED-USA, is an organization composed of teachers, researchers, and academic professionals dedicated to advancing quality education, professional growth, and research development. It serves as a platform for educators to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and recognize outstanding contributions in the field of education.
Dr. Stella G. Fernandez delivers her discussion as an invited speaker during the seminar session on “AI in Research,” where she shared insights on the responsible and innovative use of artificial intelligence in research and education during the UNIFFIED-Philippines seminar and recognition program.
One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of outstanding educators who have demonstrated exemplary contributions in Community Extension Excellence, Outstanding Achievement in Research, and Outstanding Leadership in Education. Among those honored was Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences of Central Philippine University, who received the Plaque of Outstanding Leadership in Education.
In addition to the awarding ceremony, the organization conducted a seminar focusing on the timely and relevant topic, “AI in Research.” Dr. Fernandez was invited as one of the speakers, where she shared insights on the responsible and innovative use of artificial intelligence in research and education. The event also featured Dr. Cecile D. Alimen, who discussed Ethics in Research.
The seminar and awarding program reflected UNIFFIED-Philippines’ continuing commitment to empowering educators through professional development, academic collaboration, and recognition of excellence.
Through initiatives such as leadership recognition, research engagement, and educational seminars, the organization continues to inspire educators and researchers to pursue innovation, lifelong learning, and meaningful service in strengthening the quality of Philippine education.