A Grace-Filled Compass For Growth

By Herman M. Lagon

Life’s crossroads often hold unexpected gifts. After 21 enriching years as Ateneo de Iloilo’s K-12 principal, I faced a career shift in 2022. The choices were plenty—four state universities, two private universities, a government institution, and a lucrative career abroad, all promising unique opportunities. But something about the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) felt right. Now celebrating its second year as a university, ISUFST has proven to be more than just my newest workplace in my almost 30 years of professional life—it is a place where purpose and reinvention align for me.

ISUFST was not just a job move but a leap of faith into a transformative journey. As a newly minted university and part of its historical transition, it felt like stepping into uncharted waters, ripe with challenges and possibilities. This was a blank canvas waiting to be painted for someone passionate about public affairs, storytelling, mathematics, physics, research, and technology integration in education. The transition was difficult—shifting from Ateneo’s  Ignatian spirituality-anchored environment to ISUFST’s growing non-sectarian culture under Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr.’s suave management required grit and adaptability. But the warmth of a colorful community ready to embrace growth made every step worthwhile.

What sets ISUFST apart is its foundation on Integrity, Social Justice, Discipline, and Academic Excellence (ISDA). These principles are not just slogans but woven into the university’s fabric. Integrity drives professionalism and public service, while Social Justice reflects empathy for the underserved. Discipline fosters responsibility, and Academic Excellence pushes boundaries to meet global standards. Together, these ideals guide us in creating meaningful impact for students and the broader community.

In just two years, ISUFST has achieved remarkable milestones: University conversion, CHED Regional Quality Awards, ISO and AACCUP re-certifications [if not level upgrade], robust board exam results, impactful partnerships, successful hosting of RSCUAA 2024, and thriving programs from fisheries to technology, education to management, agriculture to planning, research to extension, and internationalization to public affairs. These accomplishments underscore its bold vision to become a Southeast Asian research leader by 2030. These accomplishments, driven by ISUFST’s 8,500+ students, 100+ staff, and 300 dedicated faculty—half of whom hold PhDs in their fields—highlight the university’s bold vision and unwavering commitment to innovation, transformation, and sustainability.

My journey mirrors ISUFST’s evolution. In this institution, I have rediscovered my love for writing and sharing stories that amplify the university’s milestones and my insights and advocacies. Balancing work and personal life, I have found a new rhythm that allows me to pursue my other passions while making a difference. Being part of ISUFST’s story has been nothing short of liberating.

Of course, the journey has not been without challenges. Navigating a new academic and professional culture—from a Jesuit to a state university worldview—and contributing to a gung-ho institution’s growth demanded resilience. But each challenge became an opportunity to try to align with ISUFST’s prayer: to act with integrity, pursue justice, exercise discipline, and strive for excellence. These daily practices keep us grounded as we build something lasting as one community.

As ISUFST celebrates its second anniversary, we honor more than milestones; we celebrate the resilience and vision of a community working toward greatness. From its roots in 1957 as a local fisheries school to its present role as the country’s first and only fisheries university, ISUFST continues to grow, touching lives and shaping futures.

For me, this chapter has been about rediscovery. Leaving Ateneo was bittersweet, but the lessons I carried—faith that dues justice, discernment, cura personalis, and magis—prepared me for this new path. ISUFST, in turn, has been a space for growth, empowerment, creativity, and purpose.

To the entire ISUFST family: thank you for welcoming me and sharing this exciting journey. Together, we are building something extraordinary. Cheers to two years of innovation, transformation, sustainability, and many more ahead.

Because being in the right place at the right time, with grace, makes all the difference.

***

Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with.