From a roster of nominees for Outstanding Alumni of Foundation University, six aspirants qualified in the screening process whose stellar accomplishments earned the nod of the committee composed of representatives of the university administration and officers of the Foundation University Alumni Association, Inc. The six alumni were honored in fitting ceremonies on December 7, 2024 at the Sofia Soller Sinco Hall as part of the alumni fellowship and homecoming in celebration of the 75th or Diamond Jubilee founding anniversary.
The Outstanding Alumni are: Atty. Janice Jade Tan-Canonigo in the field of economy and social development; Dr. Annabelle Catarata in the field of uniformed personnel; Dr. Cesar Estrope in the field of education; Jo-Dann Darong in the field of economy and social development; Dr. Dinno Depositario in the field of government; and, Atty. Marcelino C. Maxino in the field of law and jurisprudence.
Atty. Tan-Canonigo graduated kindergarten, grade school, and high school at Foundation University as valedictorian in all levels. She is currently Area Director and Head of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas-Bacolod.
Dr. Catarata finished elementary and secondary education at Foundation University. Her stint with the Philippine National Police spans decades of critical duties in traffic investigation and intelligence work.
Dr. Estrope earned his Doctor of Education at Foundation University. He has served in various capacities in the institutions of learning he has been a part of, including that of being director and dean.
Mr. Darong graduated Bachelor of Science in Economics with honors at Foundation University. At present, he is Director III of the Bureau of Competitive Development of the Department of Trade and Industry in the Philippines.
Dr. Depositario considers himself a true-blue Greyhound, a Foundationite by virtue of his two decades of service to the university, holding such positions as Vice-President for Student Life and External Affairs and other responsibilities. He currently serves as City Government Assistant Department Head I for the Local Government Unit of Dumaguete City.
Atty. Maxino earned multiple degrees from Foundation University, namely Associate in Arts (Pre-Law) with highest honors, Bachelor of Science in Jurisprudence, and Bachelor of Arts both magna cum laude, and Bachelor of Laws, cum laude. He is a member of the Philippine Bar, the State Bar of California, and the Federal Bar of the United States until his retirement. He has also served as president of Foundation University.
Moreover, the Generation of Greyhounds was likewise launched on the same occasion of the alumni fellowship and homecoming with the recognition of the Gaudan and Melon families whose members up to the third generation graduated in different levels at Foundation University.
Presenting the awards to the outstanding alumni were University President Victor Vicente "Dean" G. Sinco, Chancellor Dr. Charlotte V. Carino, FUAAI president Jerome Dela Cruz, and President Emeritus Dr. Mira D. Sinco. (Cecile M. Genove)