Let’s Get to Know The Three Retirees of BukSU

Sentimental emotions and nostalgia filled the air in the mini-theater as Bukidnon State University’s College of Education honored three faculty and staff members who are set to retire from their service to the university this year.

Throughout the many years spent with BukSU, Dr. Estela C. Itaas, Dr. Lucia A. Pajantoy, and Ms. Luzviminda M. Arbues have touched the lives of their colleagues and students. As we pay tribute to their unwavering commitment, let’s get to know them better and celebrate the contributions they’ve made to the university, as well as the positive impact they’ve had on the lives of many.

Ms. Luzviminda M. Arbues. Manang Luz, as she is fondly called by her colleagues, spent two decades at the Elementary School Laboratory (ESL) serving administrative or secretarial roles under the principal’s office. She is best regarded for her sisterly approach towards her workmates, earning praises for being calm and peace-loving. She is also known for being a ‘fashionista.’ Manang Luz is also admired for raising her four children well through her hard work at the ESL.

Dr. Lucia A. Pajantoy. Affectionately referred to as Mommy Lucy by both students and colleagues, she is known for her expertise in culinary and home economics (HE) at the Secondary School Laboratory (SSL). Mommy Lucy’s service at the SSL extended for more than a decade, from 2007 to 2023. Before her time at BukSU, she was associated with the Department of Education. Beyond her role as a dedicated HE teacher, Mommy Lucy’s influence extends into the community as a faculty extensionist of the university, particularly reaching out to mothers in the outskirts of the province. She takes pride in being a mother of three children, all of whom have pursued careers in the medical field.

Dr. Estela C. Itaas. In the long history of BukSU, Dr. Itaas, or ‘Maam Telay,’ holds the distinction of being the first declared University Professor. Over her 41 years of service, she has served various roles in the university, ranging from Instruction as a professor to holding the position of Vice President for Academic Affairs, and as the Graduate School coordinator until her retirement. Additionally, in the field of Research and Extension, Maam Telay is one of the faculty members who sailed through the waves of challenges in fulfilling CHED’s requirements back when research and extension were still in its infancy.

During the occasion, BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol expressed gratitude to the retirees and gave honor to the contributions that left an enduring impact on the university’s academic and research landscape.

“This is significant in our lives to celebrate your influence and impact on the university. Your service years have contributed to BukSU’s growth and success. You all are irreplaceable; you are an institutional memory. You are truly mentors, advisers, and role models to colleagues, and students. To the retirees, accept our sincerest appreciation as our way to express your tireless efforts, sacrifice, and contribution to BukSU. This is to celebrate your achievements, and show you all the respect you deserve,” Mirasol said.