BukSU’s leadership team steps up, earning the Wharton Leadership and Management Certificate

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) is investing in world-class leadership.

Two of BukSU’s top officials completed a Leadership and Management Certificate Program at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, a training funded by the Commission on Higher Education-Higher Education Upskilling and Study for the Advancement of Staff and Faculty (CHED-HUSAY) Program.

Mr. Dante S. Victoria Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance, and Ms. Rosanna S. Generato, Chief Administrative Officer for Administration Services, engaged in the intensive program from June 16 to September 5, 2025.

Participants engaged in four comprehensive courses covering 16 modules, including lecture videos, peer discussions, live sessions, and exams to earn the certificate.

For Ms. Generato, the program provided invaluable insights into purpose-driven leadership.

“My key takeaway from the Leadership and Management Course at The Wharton School is the importance of aligning purpose with leadership and organizational culture. The program deepened my perspective on stakeholder engagement, sustainability, and continuous improvement, areas that are vital to my role as Chief Administrative Officer. It also inspired me to lead with resilience and purpose, particularly by strengthening the Administrative Division’s function and supporting the university’s sustainability initiatives,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Mr. Victoria Jr. emphasized the strategic value of the program in shaping long-term institutional growth.

“The modules from Wharton Online deepened my understanding of how leadership, strategy, and organizational design must work together to create long-term value. I learned that effective decision-making requires clarity of vision, timely action, and the ability to manage under uncertainty. Strategy is not only about competing in the present but also about anticipating industry shifts, leveraging resources, and fostering innovation. Equally important, organizational success depends on aligning structure with strategy, building trust in teams and alliances, and ensuring that performance systems motivate accountability and continuous improvement. Overall, the program emphasized that sustainable leadership means balancing technical expertise with human factors, and always linking decisions back to the institution’s core mission and values,” Mr. Victoria highlighted.

University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol’s visionary leadership is driving BukSU to prioritize professional growth and global competitiveness. The university is actively encouraging its workforce, particularly officials, to pursue advanced education.

According to the Office of the University President, the commitment reflected BukSU’s dedication to enhancing leadership and management skills that aligned with international standards and supported the university’s mission of academic and administrative excellence.

“The achievement of these two officials is a testament to BukSU’s commitment to nurturing leaders who embody excellence, innovation, and resilience,” BukSU OP said.

Mirasol continues to inspire the BukSU workforce to seek out global opportunities for professional development, ensuring that the university not only keeps pace with international best practices but also strengthens its role in advancing education and development in Northern Mindanao and beyond.

BukSU extended its gratitude to CHED for making this endeavor possible through the HUSAY Program, which enables faculty and staff of state universities and colleges (SUCs) to elevate their competencies in world-class learning environments. (Astred Jill A. Catolpos, Presidential Technical Operations Head)