October 2025 — The Bachelor of Science in Psychology program at Arellano University (AU) Juan Sumulong Campus successfully celebrated a major milestone with its First-Ever Pinning and Lighting Ceremony held on October 24, 2025, at the AU Little Theater, the event was a formal acknowledgment of students progressing toward their professional careers.
The ceremony's theme, “Assessing Behaviors, Shaping Minds, and Serving Humanity: The Pinning of Future Psychometricians,” perfectly captured the program's commitment to professional excellence and service.
The program was efficiently spearheaded by the officers of the Junior Psychology Society of Arellano University (JPSAU), led by President Emmanuel Raci, Vice-President External Tristan Gagabuan, and their dedicated adviser, Mr. Jezron Brasileño. The proceedings were expertly hosted by JPSAU members, third-year BS Psychology student Ms. Jazmine Marie G. Agoncillo and second-year student Ms. Anne Danica M. Bullan.
The event saw the attendance of numerous distinguished guests and faculty, underscoring the university's support for the program. Notable attendees included:
- Ms. Leonora Borromeo, Cluster Dean for Allied Sciences
- Dr. Belen M. Chu, Program Chair and Dean of BS in Psychology
- Dr. Sammy Q. Dolba, Dean, College of General Education and Liberal Arts
- Atty. Roland A. Niedo, University Registrar and Assistant Director for Legal Affairs
- Dr. Maristela D. Roxas, Assistant VP for Basic Education Juan Sumulong Campus
- Mr. Ross Pabilan, Department Secretary of BS in Psychology
- BS in Psychology Faculty Members: Ms. Joan San Juan, Mr. Christian Fernandez, and Mr. Jezron Brasileño.
The ceremony's guest of honor was Dr. Lucila O. Bance, Program Lead for the Guidance and Counseling Cluster of the University of Sto. Tomas Graduate School, a recognized leader in the field.
The solemn ceremony began with the entrance of the pinnees—the BS Psychology students—accompanied by their proud parents and guardians, setting an emotional and supportive tone for the event.
Ms. Leonora Borromeo, Cluster Dean for Allied Sciences, delivered the Welcome Remarks, emphasizing the essence of the ceremony, "It is not only the ceremony, it is the celebration of your hard work and passion for understanding people," she stated. She further elaborated on the symbolism of the lights carried by the students, explaining that they represent the knowledge, compassion, and purpose that will guide them as they move closer to becoming certified psychometricians.
Following her, Dr. Belen M. Chu, Program Chair and Dean of BS in Psychology, formally introduced Dr. Bance, highlighting her significant contributions to the field and her distinguished past and current professional roles.
Guest Speaker Dr. Lucila O. Bance acknowledged the event organizers, guests, and most importantly, the students' "hard work, sleepless nights, and sacrifices". She then shared an inspiring message, detailing her own journey and the wealth of experience and knowledge that led her to her current position.
Dr. Bance’s address centered on the core values essential for future practitioners, stressing the importance of empathy, compassion, and integrity. She provided students with valuable insights and tips on the different career settings available to psychometricians and psychologists, including the industrial, educational, and clinical fields. She also offered a practical piece of advice: inviting the students to practice a "scientific inhale and exhale exercise," advocating for mindful breathing as a powerful tool to manage stress and anxiety. Her final, motivating challenge to the students was to strive to "become better every single day of their life."
The main segment of the program was the Pinning and Lighting Ceremony. Each student was individually called to the stage with their parents or guardian to receive a certificate and light their candle. This moment was sealed with a short oath, formally preparing them for their transition into future professionals in psychology.
The ceremony concluded with response messages from JPSAU leaders, VP External Tristan Gagabuan and President Emmanuel Raci, before Dr. Bance was presented with an award plaque in appreciation of her enriching contribution. Finally, Dr. Belen M. Chu delivered the closing remarks, officially bringing the landmark ceremony to an end.
- Heaven Joy Prado
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