The College of Nursing (CN) led this week’s flag-raising ceremony.

CN Dean Jude L. Tayaben welcomed university officials, faculty members, staff, and students as he announced the anniversary celebration of CN. He shared and recognized the enduring milestones of the college since its establishment in 1990.

Tayaben also introduced the ceremony’s inspirational speaker, the CN founding Dean, Florence C. Cawaon, describing her as a distinguished Filipino nurse educator, author, and former member of the Professional Regulatory Board of Nursing. He highlighted her invaluable contributions to nursing education and leadership in the Cordillera region and across the country.

Among her accomplishments, Cawaon recently received recognition as an Outstanding Professional Nurse from the Professional Regulation Commission.

In her address, Cawaon shared the humble beginnings and struggles encountered during the establishment of the BSN program during the School Year 1990–1991.

She recounted her transfer to BSU in August 1991, shortly after the devastating Luzon earthquake, to head the nursing department. During the early years, the college faced limited resources, inadequate facilities, and a lack of plantilla positions for instructors.

“We had to make do with what resources we had. The first floor of the university library building was transformed into a simulated hospital ward, while students brought their own linens, thermometers, and nursing supplies for demonstrations,” she shared.

Despite these challenges, she emphasized the dedication and perseverance of both faculty members and students who worked tirelessly to sustain the program.

The founding dean also narrated how the CN gained momentum through legislative support from then Congressman Samuel Dangwa, who filed a bill establishing the School of Nursing at Benguet State University for the Cordillera region and nearby provinces.

Cawaon proudly noted that the college graduated its first batch of nursing students in 1994 and immediately pursued academic accreditation. She highlighted that within a year after graduating its pioneer class, the program had already achieved Level I accreditation status.

Closing her message, Cawaon encouraged everyone to trust God amid challenges and quoted Proverbs 3:5–6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Meanwhile, part of the flag ceremony also featured the recognition of university offices that demonstrated compliance with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) requirements for Fiscal Year 2025.

Offices receiving certificates of recognition for 100 percent compliance included the Compensation, Benefits and Other Obligations Office, Office for Quality Assurance and Accreditation, Human Resource Development Office, Human Resource Management Office, Office of Student Services, University Health Services, BSU Bokod, and BSU Buguias.

VP for Administration and Finance Richard H. Kinnud also announced the observance of Flag Week beginning May 28 until June 12 in celebration of Philippine Independence Day. He encouraged all university offices to display the Philippine flag in their respective buildings.

VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres reminded research coordinators of the submission deadline for entries to the University Student Research Congress.

In his closing remarks, BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan congratulated the CN on its 36th founding anniversary and thanked Cawaon for gracing the ceremony.

Laruan emphasized the university’s core value of excellence, reminding employees and students that excellence is not only measured through awards and achievements but also through consistency in performing everyday responsibilities.

The ceremony concluded with renewed appreciation for the legacy and continued growth of the BSU College of Nursing as it celebrates 36 years of service and excellence in nursing education.//NBSudaypan

EBawang

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The Flag Raising Ceremony and the short program that follows it usually consisting of announcements, recognition of student and employee achievements, physical exercises, performances and speeches from guests and university officials is a regular activity of BSU that supports and contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals specifically #Goal3, #Goal4, #Goal8, #Goal10, #Goal16, and #Goal17. In essence, the activity serves as a regular platform to reinforce values, disseminate information, and celebrate achievements.