A formal meeting for UPS’s 20th foundation anniversary

“Aprendiendo juntos" or “Learning Together” was the slogan used to celebrate the University’s 20th foundation anniversary which ended with a formal meeting in Quito last July 24th.

The meeting was conducted by Father Javier Herrán, UPS president; Viviana Montalvo, UPS-Quito vice president; Father Juan Bottasso; Armando Romero, Rubén Bravo, Maryan Calahorrano, Rodney Tapia, and Dr. Alejandro Rivadeneira, Universidad de Los Hemisferios president.

The event started with a video showing UPS’s history in Salesian education, and was then followed by Viviana Montalvo who welcomed everyone and spoke about the university’s advancement since it was established on August 1994.

“Within the context of changes in Higher Education, the assessments used for accreditation have helped us learn more about ourselves, they have given us the feedback we need to implement continuous improvement processes and set clear objectives in our strategic plan to ensure quality education of honest citizens and good Christians with academic and research capabilities that will contribute to local and national sustainable development”, she said.

Father Juan Bottasso spoke about some pleasant remembrances from the 50’s when UPS was a Salesian Institute and graduated some of the country’s most distinguished people of the time. He said that they later decided to become a university, and so the authorities led by Father Luciano Bellini headed to Congress and overcame all the legal obstacles in order to become a university.

“I am glad because the University is in good hands; it has grown and positioned itself nationally. I just hope UPS remains true to its principles: assistance of lower income groups, social commitment and Christian inspiration” he said.

Regarding academia, Bravo said UPS is a “Teaching University” which means it must work hard in evaluation processes, research with social impact and the preservation of Salesian identity.

Father Javier Herrán said “we have built a salesian university without any previous models or stories; we have learned along the way. We now see UPS after 20 years of co-responsibility to fulfill Don Bosco’s mission among secular and religious salesians. We have discovered God within the university’s activities and feel Mary’s love towards us”.

Maryan Calahorrano spoke on behalf of the students and thanked UPS for the social nature of its education which is passed on to everyone. Rodney Tapia, on behalf of ADAUPS, awarded the UPS president a recognition plaque in honor of the university’s foundation anniversary.

After the formal meeting was over the attendees were invited to a closing ceremony at Don Bosco Plaza where they enjoyed some live music and dancing.