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Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, the President of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), served as the the commencement speaker during the 76th Commencement Exercises of Southern Christian College (SCC) with 457 graduates on May 30, 2025, at the SCC Fellowship Center, Poblacion 5, Midsayap, Cotabato.
Guided by its graduation theme “Here I Am, Send Me: Graduates in the Service of God and Nation”, President Pimentel circled his speech in emphasizing willingness to respond, willingness to accept purpose of living while being obedient to the supreme being at the same time. The words “Here I am” and “Send me” reflect from the teachings of Christianity found in the book of Isaiah chapter 6 verse 8 which declares strong willingness, availability, and obedience.
“Here I am’ shows our openness and willingness to respond, while ‘Send me’ expresses a personal commitment to take action. I’ll go. I’ll do the work. Piliin mo po ako.” President Pimentel said.
Meanwhile, President Pimentel shared his wisdom through an acronym for “SEND” which he pondered, Serve, Empower, Navigate, and Dedicate (SEND).
“Kung kayo po ay nakapagtapos sa kolehiyo, kahit gaano man kahirap ang inyong dinanas, kayo po ay BLESSED… Value the people around you and your community by sharing your knowledge, giving them hope and confidence… minsan, God is leading you to a different path. Hindi ibig sabahin nito ay sayang na ang inyong pinag-aralan, this is the reality of life, na minsan, hindi nasusunod ang iyong plano dahil God’s plan will always prevail… Commit yourself fully to the mission or calling you’ve accepted—be it faith, education, career, or community.” President Pimentel explained.
Nearing the end of his speech, President Pimentel encouraged the graduates to not lose hope and to continue their journey in the real world even if life’s obstacles appear before them.
“No matter how difficult the challenges along the way, never give up and do not lose hope. If I had given up on my calling before to serve the academe, I might not be the 8th President of the University of Southern Mindanao. Although it was not really my ambition, gusto ko lang naman maging Professor, but it was destiny.” The President claimed.
Also, Edwin T. Balaki, the SCC President, Neyrma N. Cabatac, PhD, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Rodelio N. Ambangan, PhD, VP for Research & Extension, Hon. Edwin L. Cruzado, MD, SCC-AFA President & Congressman of the 1st District of Cotabato were in attendance during the graduation.
Founded in 1949, SCC has been a solid academic partner of USM in extending services to communities while offering quality and relevant education in the region.
