The Cebu Normal University (CNU) community paid tribute to Dr. Daniel Ariaso, Sr. for his two-year legacy as its 6th president.
Surprise video presentations were played, showcasing Dr. Ariaso’s major milestones in the institution for two years and one day. He assumed his post on August 3, 2023.
Dr. Ariaso delivered a heartfelt message reflecting on his two-year term, emphasizing that leadership is defined not by time but by vision and impact.
“It is not measured by the length of service, but by the vision, wisdom and impact we create and give to our clients,” he said.
The president disclosed that people expected him to stay for only three months, but he has been leading the university through major changes and milestones for over two years now.
“I may be the captain of the ship, but it was all of you who helped steer CNU toward progress,” a teary-eyed Ariaso told the CNU community after today’s flag raising ceremony at the Idea and Knowledge Center.
“Putting CNU on the pedestal of globally competitive HEIs wasn’t easy. It took innovation, bold decisions, and a lot of political effort. But we made change happen together,” he added.
Dr. Ariaso acknowledged the discomfort brought by change, and apologized to those who struggled and “felt hurt and destroyed,” and stressed that his goal was to prepare the university—and its people—for greater heights.
“Change must be for the people, of and with the people,” he said, adding that his greatest legacy is “to create leaders who can succeed me.”
“…In the coming years, you will see the wisdom. The changes we made were never personal—they were necessary,” he added.
Congratulations and thank you, Dr. Ariaso!