Dr. Jaruvic C. Rafols Appointed as OIC Dean of Students at Silliman University
Silliman University (SU) has designated Dr. Jaruvic C. Rafols as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Dean of Students, providing leadership and oversight in matters concerning student welfare, development, engagement, discipline, and other student-related programs and services of the University.
Dr. Rafols brings nearly three decades of experience in guidance and counseling and student services at SU. He has served as Head of the Guidance and Testing Division since 2014, overseeing the University’s guidance and counseling services and coordinating programs in student orientation, career development, peer outreach, mental health, and crisis response. He previously served as a guidance counselor at the University from 1996 to 2012.
A Registered Guidance Counselor and Registered Psychometrician, Dr. Rafols earned his Doctor of Education in Administration, Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Silliman University. He is also a Certified Student Services Specialist and a trained RACE Against Suicide gatekeeper trainer.
His professional experience extends beyond the University. From 2013 to 2014, he served as a Guidance and Counselling Specialist with VSO International in Northern Uganda, where he helped develop a guidance and counseling framework for 37 youth centers serving out-of-school youth in post-conflict communities and trained guidance counselors in counseling approaches and support systems.
Dr. Rafols has been recognized for his work in counseling, student services, and mental health advocacy. His distinctions include the Silliman-Layague/Johnson Professional Excellence Award in Counseling Service in 2022, the National Award for Leadership Excellence in Suicide Prevention Promotion in 2024, and recognition in 2025 for his mental health awareness initiatives.
He is also actively involved in professional organizations and currently serves as President of the PGCA-Peer Organization of the Philippines, after serving as President of the Philippine Guidance and Counseling Association Negros Oriental-Siquijor Chapter from 2018 to 2023.
As OIC Dean of Students, Dr. Rafols will work closely with the different student services offices, academic units, student organizations, and other University offices in promoting a safe, supportive, inclusive, and enriching campus environment conducive to the holistic development and well-being of Silliman students.
His extensive experience in student affairs, counseling, mental health advocacy, crisis intervention, and student development provides a strong foundation for his new role in advancing the University’s commitment to student welfare and holistic formation.
Dr. Rafols succeeds Dr. Edna Gladys T. Calingacion, who served the Office of the Dean of Students with dedication and distinction.
