National University held its 116th Commencement Exercises last September 13 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

University President/CEO, Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita, Jr. and Assistant Vice President Dr. Arlene O. Trillanes congratulated the graduates and reminded them to always embody the Nationalian core values in their future endeavors.

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) NCR Director and Commencement Speaker Dr. Julieta M. Paras encouraged the class of 2023 to be a source of inspiration and kindness to others and to leave a mark in the world. She further persuaded the students to find their ‘true north’ and follow their internal compass as it will drive them to succeed, “Follow the path that ignites your soul and fulfill your purpose.”

Meanwhile, afternoon commencement speaker and alumnus, Mr. Stephen Vinuya acknowledged the importance of failure before one’s success as he considered the real world to be much more complex than what they experienced in college. “It’s okay to fail because in failure, you will learn.”

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition of the Don Mariano Fortunato Jhocson (DMFJ) awardee Cian Carlo Malimban from the College of Architecture.

The DMFJ award is the highest, most meritorious award that may be given to an NU student who has exemplified the core values of a true Nationalian, including actively engaging in socially productive extra-curricular activities while maintaining academic excellence.