As the world commemorates International Women’s Month, a spotlight shines on the trailblazing women inside the Office for Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) who embody empowerment in every sense of the word. Among them, Lyca Penarejo stands out as a powerhouse leader, a beacon of inspiration. Breaking barriers as the first-ever Editor-in-Chief from the Criminology department, Lyca’s journey exemplifies resilience and determination. Her recent election as Vice President of CACE (Calabarzon Association for College Editors) further solidifies her leadership prowess, proving that passion and dedication know no boundaries.
Lyca’s exceptional leadership does not end there. During her tenure as EIC, she successfully maintained the standing of the Luzonian together with her editorial board and staff as a two-time Top 4 best-performing school publication, garnering awards from various group categories including Tabloid, Newsletter, Magazine, and Literary Folio. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation has not only elevated the publication’s reputation but also inspired her peers to strive for greatness.
But Lyca is not the only force to be reckoned with in OSAS. Felomena Quizana, who holds the presidency of UCSC (University Collegiate Student Council) and the prestigious title of Most Exalted Sister of HSLS (Honor Society of the Lambda Sigma). With her unwavering commitment to advocacy and service, Felomena leads by example, inspiring her peers to strive for excellence and make a difference in their communities.
As the first female president after three years of male presidency, she highly affirms what men can do, women can do also. Her consideration of allowing freshmen students to represent their departments gave them a voice to stand out for their students’ welfare and needs. She believes that the young generation has the potential for a better understanding of the world’s needs which is something she looks up to. Based on her years of experience, leadership is a constant responsibility that one needs to live up to the people’s expectations around her and the ability to accept criticisms, either constructive or destructive.
Being a woman of empathy and a keen observer, whether students or faculty, it is always her top priority to check on people’s needs. She always reminds me that as a student leader, people will always look upon you. Felomena’s dedication to students’ welfare will always be a remnant of compassion and humility.
And behind the scenes, with grace and expertise, is none other than Joana Panganiban, the esteemed OSAS director. Joana’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and empowerment within OSAS, empowering women to embrace their strengths and pursue their passions fearlessly. During her present term, more significant changes increased within the university.
As she harnesses adaptability as the OSAS Director, she emphasizes that leaders should have openness to all people where open communication is crucial to leadership. People’s concerns are being heard and seen, allowing them to explore ideas and share them, resulting in bonds forged and strengthened through openness. Looking back, a leader should be a role model who practices what she preaches.
As we celebrate International Women’s Month, let us take a moment to salute Lyca, Felomena, Joana, and all the remarkable women of OSAS who continue to break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Their stories remind us that empowerment knows no bounds and that together, we can achieve anything we set our minds to.
