Mrs. Rosanne Ferrer-Salve

Inspired by her mentor in college, Mrs. Rosanne Ferrer-Salve keeps a positive outlook about work and life every single day. She wears a contagious smile and never skips a laugh whenever she bumps into friends and former students. 

Rosanne has been teaching Home Economics at the Elementary Department since 1979, the same year she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics from Silliman. Dealing with students puts her on a different kind of high. She gains fulfillment from seeing how her students respond positively to what she shares with them, even at young ages when they tend to stick to what they believe in. 

Mid-part of her career, she was challenged to teach math to elementary students. The previous principal of the then Silliman University Elementary School (now Elementary Department of the School of Education) informed her that she was her choice for a trainee in math. There was not much hesitation on her part to grab the opportunity as Rosanne sensed a strong inclination for it even in her younger years.

Two factors that she shared developed her as a teacher were the leadership of a good administrator and practice.

“I practiced every night in front of the mirror and I memorized my lessons,” Rosanne recalls. She admits to getting intimidated by her students who were good at speaking English.

Asked how she measures achievement, Rosanne says “it's a teacher's being able to contribute — no matter how modest — to her student's success”. She beams with pride whenever she remembers how a student, who is already enjoying a good career at present, was like way back in his or her elementary days. And hearing them regard her as a mentor who has created an impact in their lives is enough source of fulfillment and drive to better her craft every day.

Rosanne continues to train elementary students in math. She has already brought two groups to international math tournaments in China and the United States. 

When not working, Rosanne enjoys crocheting and cross-stitching.  She also plays computer games — her latest stress-reliever.

Rosanne is married to Oliver, a government employee. They are blessed with three daughters and one son. Her daughters Leendy, Zhora and Olive Rose are all registered nurses, while her son Ludwig Val is a member of the Volunteer Rescue Team of Dumaguete City. After 34 years of service to Silliman, she contemplates on her retirement and looks forward to spending more time with her family.

Let's get to know Rosanne more:

Describe yourself in three words.
Jolly. Flexible. Contented. 

What is your mantra in life?
“Keep yourself pretty all the time.”

What makes you laugh/cry?
I cry when my kids are hurt, when they have problems, or when they are judged unfairly. 

What’s your favorite time/day of the week and why?
Friday afternoon because that's when I plan on what to do during the weekend.

What do you love doing when not working?
Gardening. Perform household chores. Watch TV.

What is your favorite hangout place in the University?
Home Economics room where my friends also hang out. 

What makes you blush?
I will blush if I tell you. 

If you were an actor/actress, who would you be?
Angelina Jolie 

Tell us a fact about yourself?
I am truthful, fair and just. 

What’s your favorite game growing up?
Volleyball.

What is your idea of a relaxing day?
When I go places and marvel at the sights.

What one thing would people be interested to know about you?
How I remained beautiful.

What song best describes the YOU and the life you have now?
“You Raise Me Up.”

What is the first thing you do right after waking up in the morning?
Praise and thank God for another day. 

What’s your idea of a family?
It is where good values like respect, honesty, love and discipline are bred.