NORSU gears up for its 116th Founding Anniversary
Article by Jiselle Amaro
Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) is in full swing preparing for the momentous celebration of its founding anniversary from November 28 to December 3, promising a week of diverse events and activities highlighting the institution’s vibrant academic community.
Embracing the theme of ‘NORSU: Soaring High Amidst Challenging Times,’ this year’s festivities transformed into a dynamic commemoration of unity, showcasing talent within the NORSU community.
The celebration will kick off on November 28 with a Thanksgiving Mass in the morning and an E-torch parade in the evening.
The following day includes the recognition of NORSU retirees and a get-together party; the opening of LSO Booths “Panagda-it,’ where students can look forward to exploring booths of various organizations in the university; and the launch of University Research, Innovations, Developments, and Extension Services Exhibits in the afternoon.
The third day takes center stage with the most anticipated Mister and Miss NORSU Pageant, where students compete for prestigious titles in a display of charm, talent, and intellect.
On the fourth day, there will be a University Academic Convocation in the morning, a solemn event bringing together faculty, staff, and students to reflect on NORSU’s academic journey and accomplishments, followed by the Students’ Day featuring various activities like Quiz Bowl, Bleacher Cheering, Battle of the Bands, and Queen of NORSU, where members of the LGBTQIA+ community can express their talents and advocacies.
December 2 is designated for the NORSU Alumni Homecoming, leading up to the culmination on December 3 with the NORSU Sayawit competition in the morning, the NORSU University Modern Dance Competition in the afternoon, and the grand finale, the Hugyawan Festival (Entablado-sayaw) in the evening.
In driving the celebration for Students’ Day, the NORSU Federation of Student Government (FSG), together with the League of Student Organizations (LSO) led the way in organizing a range of captivating activities designed to delight the students.
FSG President Stephen Pedrosa expressed the team’s proactive approach to ensuring seamless execution despite the short preparation period for the founding anniversary.
“Founder’s Week has evolved into a powerful celebration of unity and progress. We’ve transcended boundaries, embracing diversity to build a community that thrives on inclusion; that’s why, for this year, we added the Queen of NORSU as a platform for the entire LGBTQIA+ community to showcase their talents and advocacies,” Pedrosa added.
Pedrosa emphasized that this year’s celebration goes beyond limits, fostering diversity and nurturing a community that thrives on inclusion.
The 116th Founding Anniversary celebration is poised to be a testament to NORSU’s resilience, growth, and enduring impact on education in the region.