SU student services leadership recognized, elected at PAPSAS 30th National Conference

Silliman University (SU) student affairs practitioners earned national recognition and leadership appointments during the 30th National Conference and Training Workshop of the Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services, Inc. (PAPSAS) held April 28 to 30, 2026, at the Frassati Auditorium of the University of Santo Tomas in España, Manila.

Anchored on the theme, “PAPSAS @30: Building the Philippine SAS Quality Framework for a Transformative Future,” the milestone conference gathered 412 Student Affairs and Services practitioners from 172 colleges and universities across the country.

Representing SU were Dr. Edna Gladys T. Calingacion, Office of Student Services (OSS) dean, and Abe P. Cadeliña, Student Organizations and Activities Division (SOAD) head.

Calingacion, who also served as PAPSAS Vice President for Private Higher Education Institutions and conference chair of the national gathering, received the PAPSAS Service Award and the PAPSAS Legacy Award during the PEARL (Pillars of Excellence in Advancing Responsive Learner Support) Legacy: PAPSAS @30 Awarding Ceremony.

The PAPSAS Service Award recognizes individuals who have rendered consistent, dedicated, and impactful service to the association through leadership roles, committee work, and participation in national initiatives. The PAPSAS Legacy Award honors seasoned practitioners whose dedication, mentorship, and ethical leadership have contributed significantly to student affairs practice and the professional development of SAS practitioners nationwide.

Meanwhile, Cadeliña received the PAPSAS Loyalty Award for his steadfast commitment, professionalism, and continued support of the association’s programs and advocacies.

He also received, on behalf of SU, the PAPSAS Alliance Award, which recognizes institutions and partner organizations that have demonstrated meaningful collaboration and sustained support for PAPSAS initiatives.

In addition, Cadeliña was elected to the PAPSAS Board of Directors for Academic Year 2026-2027.

Organized in partnership with Bicol University, the conference marked PAPSAS’ 30th year of advancing Student Affairs and Services practice in the Philippines while providing a platform for collaboration, professional development, and strategic planning for the future of student support services.

The three-day conference followed a roadmap centered on vision-setting, operationalizing the Philippine SAS Quality Framework, and sustaining the legacy of the organization. Sessions included keynote addresses, plenary talks, workshops, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and the presentation of the new set of officers for School Year 2026-2027.

As the national organization of SAS practitioners, PAPSAS continues to promote healthy, inclusive, and student-centered learning environments that support student wellness and holistic development in higher education institutions across the country.