University of San Agustin Alumni Reunion: A Celebration of Camaraderie and Nostalgia in Dubai
Under the clear blue skies of Dubai, the University of San Agustin (USA) alumni gathered in Zabeel Park on a sunny morning at 11:00 AM for a memorable reunion. The event, graced by the presence of the beloved Fr. Jonas Mejares, O.S.A., brought together fifteen alumni along with their families and loved ones. This gathering was a celebration of camaraderie, nostalgia, and the shared bond of being Augustinian.
Rekindling Memories of University Life
The reunion was by heartfelt conversations as former students reminisced about their days at the University of San Agustin. Laughter echoed through the park as they shared anecdotes from their college years, from late-night study sessions to spirited debates during classes. These moments of reflection were not just about looking back but also about recognizing how their experiences at USA had shaped them into the resilient and creative professionals they are today.
“It feels like yesterday when we were all young and eager students, walking through the corridors of the university,” shared Michelle Geallon, now an accomplished engineer in the UAE. “Those formative years taught us not just academics but also the values of community, discipline, and perseverance.”
The alumni, now thriving in diverse professions such as teaching, accounting, engineering, and pharmacy, expressed gratitude for the solid foundation the university had provided. They credited USA for equipping them with the skills and mindset to excel in their respective fields, even in a competitive and fast-paced environment like the United Arab Emirates.
A Call to Strengthen the Alumni Network
Fr. Jonas Mejares, O.S.A., who was warmly welcomed by the attendees, gave an inspiring message that resonated with everyone present. A former dean of the conservatory of music and the university’s renowned “singing priest,” Fr. Jonas has a special connection with most of the attendees. Many of them were once members of the conservatory of music or the resident theater company, having collaborated with him in various concerts and performances.
In his address, Fr. Jonas acknowledged the attendees’ accomplishments and their efforts to stay connected despite the distance from their alma mater. He then posed a challenge to the group: to form a formal University of San Agustin Alumni Association in the UAE. “This reunion is just the beginning,” he said. “Imagine what we can achieve if we unite under a single organization. This can be a platform to support one another, extend our network to neighboring emirates and Gulf countries, and continue living out the Augustinian values of community and service.”
The idea was met with enthusiasm as the alumni discussed the possibilities of creating an official association. They envisioned organizing more events, supporting new graduates moving to the UAE, and even contributing to community projects that reflect the university’s mission.
Updates from the Alma Mater
For many of the attendees, it had been years since they last visited the University of San Agustin. Fr. Jonas painted a vivid picture of the university’s growth and modernization, leaving everyone in awe of how much had changed.
“The university has grown to accommodate 15,000 students,” Fr. Jonas shared. “We now have our own hotel for Hotel and Restaurant Management students, a seven-story student center complete with a mini-convention center, and a newly renovated auditorium with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.”
He also highlighted the advancements in the university’s facilities, including fully air-conditioned classrooms and a high-tech, multi-million-peso pharmaceutical laboratory. This laboratory has been producing medicines that have significantly contributed to the medical field. Fr. Jonas’ updates filled the alumni with pride and a renewed sense of connection to their alma mater.
“Hearing about these developments makes me want to visit the university soon,” said Carlo Ramirez, an accountant. “It’s amazing to see how much it has grown while staying true to its mission of providing quality education.”
Nostalgia and the Spirit of Culture and Arts
The gathering also took a nostalgic turn as Fr. Jonas reminisced about the cultural and artistic events that many of the alumni were part of during their university days. He recalled concerts, theater productions, and musical performances that showcased the immense talent of the students. These events were not just extracurricular activities but opportunities to hone their creativity and foster lifelong friendships.
“Those moments were magical,” Fr. Jonas said. “They were not just performances but expressions of your passion and dedication. It’s heartwarming to see how those experiences have shaped you into who you are today.”
The alumni, many of whom were deeply involved in the arts during their university years, couldn’t help but smile as they remembered their time on stage and behind the scenes. It was a reminder of how the university had nurtured not just their academic and professional skills but also their creative spirits.
A Promising Future
As the event drew to a close, the alumni and their families enjoyed a sumptuous potluck lunch, with dishes that brought a taste of home to Dubai. Children played around the park, while the adults continued their conversations, exchanging contact information and promising to stay connected.
The reunion ended on a high note, with a group photo capturing the joy and camaraderie of the day. Fr. Jonas, in his closing remarks, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the vibrant spirit of the attendees. He encouraged everyone to take the next step in building a stronger alumni community, one that could make a difference not just for its members but also for others.
A Reunion to Remember
The University of San Agustin alumni reunion in Dubai was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of shared memories, achievements, and aspirations. It was a testament to the enduring bond among Augustinians, a bond that transcends time and distance.
As the sun set over Zabeel Park, the alumni left with renewed connections and a shared vision for the future. They carried with them the lessons and values of their alma mater, ready to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
In the words of Fr. Jonas Mejares, “Once an Augustinian, always an Augustinian. Let this reunion be the beginning of something greater.”
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