In today’s globalized world, collaboration knows no borders. Further, San Beda University strongly recognizes the immense value of forging partnerships across the world to foster academic excellence, cultural exchange, and innovative solutions to global challenges. 

From October 16 to 19, 2023, upon the invitation of Rev. Fr. Paul R. Taylor, OSB, President of St. Vincent College, the Rev. Fr. Rector-President, Aloysius Ma. A. Maranan, OSB, made an academic visit to its partner institution, Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, USA. Along with him are Dr. Fernandino Jose A. Fontanilla, Vice-President for Research and Innovation, and Dr. Christian Bryan S. Bustamante, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Director of the Governance and Quality Assurance Office. 

St. Vincent College is a Benedictine institution established in 1846. It is the oldest Benedictine school in the United States of America. It specializes in the following programs: Accountancy and Business, Biology and Environmental Science, Information System and Computer Science, English, Political Science, Sports Management, and Nursing and Public Health. 

During the visit, San Beda administrators led by the Rev. Fr. Rector-President met separately with the Endowed Research Professors, Academic Deans, Vice-Presidents, College President, and the Rt. Rev. Martin Bartel, OSB, Archabbot of Saint Vincent Abbey, respectively. During the meetings, the following were discussed: short-term student exchange, faculty research partnership, faculty exchange lecture, twinning program, and sharing of knowledge, expertise, and research on sustainability and academic integration of Laudato Si. 

The visit is seen to mutually enrich academic programs of both institutions by bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise, and resources. On the other hand, the short-term student exchange program opens pathways to students towards gaining global perspectives, enhance skills, and broaden career opportunities. Beyond academics, the visit is also seen to spark opportunities for promoting cultural exchange and understanding. This cultural exchange nurtures empathy, tolerance, and global citizenship, preparing individuals to thrive in an interconnected world. Moreover, diverse perspectives enrich classroom discussions, research endeavors, and campus life, fostering a vibrant intellectual environment. 

Moreover, the collaborative partnership with Saint Vincent College arms both institutions to address pressing global challenges more effectively. By pooling expertise and resources, both institutions can tackle issues such as climate change, public health, and social inequality on a larger scale. Interdisciplinary teams may work together to develop innovative solutions that transcend geographical boundaries, driving positive change worldwide.

As San Beda University and Saint Vincent College form formidable partnership, both institutions look forward to addressing complex challenges facing the world and creating a more inclusive and better future through collective wisdom, discernment, and collaboration.

Author: Christian Bryan S. Bustamante, Ph.D.

Source: SBU

Photo shows Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, USA. (Photo credit – Saint Vincent College)

Photo shows SBU Rector President, Rev. Fr. Aloysius Ma. A. Maranan, OSB (2nd from right) holding copies of The Bedan Today for Saint Vincent College, together with SVC President, Rev. Fr. Paul R. Taylor, OSB (2nd from left) holding a copy of The Bedan Research Journal. Dr. Dino Fontanilla (1st from left) and Dr. Christian Bryan Bustamante (1st from right) join the two heads for posterity.