Alumni Update September 2 – 8, 2024

Sillimanian featured in NY subway billboards

Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee (OSA) Nella Fe Pineda-Marcon is prominently featured in the “New York Proud” awareness campaign by the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), with her picture showcased on billboards across the city’s subway system.

“New York Proud” is a narrative shift and public art campaign that reaffirms the indispensable role of immigrants in shaping New York City’s identity through a living and growing collection of portraits and stories.

This project serves as a reminder that immigrants are not only integral to New York’s past but essential to the city’s future, driving innovation, creativity, and progress in every corner of New York city.

Friends informed Marcon that her picture had appeared on New York subway billboards, much to her surprise and excitement. “I’m on subways!” she exclaimed. “I thought it was for a magazine—I had no idea I’d end up being featured on subway billboards.”

Award-winning photojournalist Oscar B. Castillo took Marcon’s photos for this “New York Proud” campaign.

The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) is an umbrella policy and advocacy organization representing over 200 immigrant and refugee rights groups throughout New York. The NYIC establishes a forum for immigrant groups to voice their concerns and also provides a platform for collective action to drive positive social change. Its mission is to unite immigrants, members, and allies, so all New Yorkers can thrive.

Marcon completed High School in 1977 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 1981 at Silliman University (SU). She then pursued her medical studies at Perpetual Help College of Medicine, graduating in 1987. She was recognized by SU as an OSA in the field of Disaster Relief and Climate Justice Advocacy last August 28, 2021.