Remembering Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman on his 199th Birth Anniversary

Alumni Update December 2 – 8, 2024

Silliman University (SU) commemorated the 199th birth anniversary of its founder, Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman, with a floral offering, thanksgiving prayers, and the heartfelt rendition of the thanksgiving anthem Handog by the SU Campus Choristers, under the direction of Dr. Elizabeth Susan V. Suarez. The event took place on December 3, 2024, at the bust of Dr. Silliman located on the Silliman Hall grounds.

Floral offerings were led by SU Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research, Dr. Margaret Helen U. Alvarez, and Interim Chief Finance Officer, Atty. Ebenezer Y. Lim. Representatives from the Silliman Alumni Association, Inc. Dumaguete Chapter, Jocelyn Somoza Dela Cruz and Luz Camacho Forbes, also paid tribute by offering flowers.

This activity marked the kickoff of a year-long celebration of Dr. Silliman’s bicentennial birth anniversary. The university has planned numerous events involving students and alumni to honor Dr. Silliman’s life of selflessness, highlighting the enduring legacy of his generosity and visionary spirit.

SU administration officials symbolically release doves to honor and commemorate Dr. Horace B. Silliman’s 199th birth anniversary. (L-R) Dr. Elizabeth Susan V. Suarez, dean of the College of Performance and Visual Arts; Ruben N. Bokingo, director for Alumni and External Affairs; Dr. Margaret Helen U. Alvarez, interim vice president for Academic Affairs and Research; Atty. Ebenezer Y. Lim, interim chief Finance Officer; Dr. Theresa A. Guino-o, dean of the College of Nursing; and Moses Joshua B. Atega, International Student Adviser.

Atty. Ebenezer Y. Lim, interim chief Finance Officer, and Dr. Margaret Helen U. Alvarez, interim vice president for Academic Affairs and Research, adorn the bust of Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman with a floral lei.

Dr. Horace B. Silliman passed away on May 4, 1910, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of selfless contributions. These include his support for Cohoes, New York; providing capital funding and scholarships for Hamilton College, Union College, and Mount Hermon Academy; building the Silliman Lodge in New Jersey (a home for girls affiliated with the Christadora settlement house in New York City); and founding Silliman University in Dumaguete City, Philippines.

The University commemorates both his birth and death anniversary as part of its yearly tradition.

We share with you the prayers of thanksgiving offered in commemoration of Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman’s 199th birthday:

Elementary Student

Dr. Horace B. Silliman sowed the seed of an institution dedicated to quality education and Christian values. Today, 123 years later, we marvel at how that seed has flourished into a cornerstone of learning and faith. May we continue to be blessed with the wisdom and strength to nurture and sustain it for generations to come.

Junior High School

Dr. Horace B. Silliman devoted his life to philanthropy, leaving a legacy rooted in education and community development—an example truly worthy of admiration. As students, may we draw inspiration from his selflessness and remember that life gains true meaning when we dedicate ourselves to the service of others.

Senior High School

Dr. Horace B. Silliman’s generous donation of $10,000 paved the way for the establishment of an industrial school that began with just 15 boys and modest resources. Let us always honor its humble beginnings, celebrate its remarkable growth, and commit to safeguarding its legacy for generations to come.

Student Government

Dr. Horace B. Silliman’s unwavering support for schools and colleges exemplifies his deep belief in the power of investing in human potential. May this belief inspire us, as students, to recognize our own capabilities and honor the enduring legacy he left—a legacy defined by his selfless desire to uplift people he had never seen and would never meet.

Faculty

Through the generous donation of Dr. Horace B. Silliman, Silliman University began its humble journey under the leadership of Dr. David Sutherland Hibbard as president and Mrs. Laura Hibbard as faculty. Today, the university stands proud with a distinguished pool of experts across various fields. May our teachers continue to be blessed with the passion to shape future generations, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to society’s progress. May they be granted the grace to inspire, the fortitude to embrace the immense responsibility of nurturing minds, and the deep fulfillment that comes from guiding and mentoring lives.

Staff

Dr. Horace B. Silliman’s selflessness continues to inspire all who learn of his legacy to uphold and protect it with dedication. May the staff remain unwavering in their commitment to providing vital support, ensuring the university operates with excellence and efficiency. Together, may we strive to realize its vision as “a Christian institution leading in total human development for the well-being of society and the environment.”

Alumni

May Dr. Horace B. Silliman’s investment in Silliman University serve as a timeless reminder for all Silliman alumni of their important role in its continued growth and excellence. May they carry with them a deep sense of pride and responsibility, knowing that their support and engagement are essential to the university’s progress. Let this shared legacy inspire alumni to contribute their time, talents, and resources to uphold the institution’s mission, ensuring that Silliman remains a pillar of knowledge, character, and service for generations to come.

(L-R) Mr. Novee E. Maestrecampo, director, Office of Community Engagement and Service-Learning; Dr. Theresa A. Guino-o, dean of the College of Nursing; Dr. Gina F. Bonior, dean, College of Education and supervising dean of the SBE; Dr. Elizabeth Susan V. Suarez, dean of the College of Performance and Visual Arts; Dr. Margaret Helen U. Alvarez, interim vice president for Academic Affairs and Research; Atty. Ebenezer Y. Lim, interim Chief Finance Officer; Dr. Robert S. Guino-o, II, interim executive director for Research, Publication, and Innovation; Dr. Ferdinand M. Mangibin, dean, School of Public Affairs and Governance; Dr. Van Cliburn M. Tibus, dean, Divinity School; and Dr. Mae Brigitt Bernadel L. Villordon, interim assistant vice president for Academic Affairs.

A photo with representatives from the Silliman University Medical Center Foundation, Inc., Silliman Alumni Association, Inc. Dumaguete Chapter members, alumni, and SU administrators.