On 11 June 2025, the XU Community joined together for the Post Accreditation Thanksgiving hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Higher Education (OVPHE). Fr Mars P Tan, SJ presided the Celebration of the Eucharist. In his homily, he discussed he highlighted that the thanksgiving should be threefold:
- Gratitude for the Gift of Accreditation: We appreciate the gift of learning, community, hard work, and perseverance through challenges.
- Gratitude for Our Mission: Beyond metrics and ratings, we are thankful for the deepened mission of educating and forming others.
- Gratitude for the Spirit Who Protects and Sustains Us: Our success is a testament to the work of the Spirit within and through us.
"The Gospel reading challenges us to pursue academic excellence with courage and purpose. Jesus’ message, “I am sending you like sheep amid wolves,” reminds us that our mission may involve difficulties, even when we seek peace and safety. As a Jesuit institution, this means going beyond basic education—we strive for true excellence and reject mediocrity. Achieving this requires the spirit of Magis: more love, hard work, service, patience, and dedication. Only by embodying these values can we overcome the challenges we face and fulfill our mission."
After the mass, a fellowship program was held at the XU Covered Courts, where faculty, formators, and staff gathered to celebrate and give thanks for the university's achievement. Fr Mars once again expressed his personal gratitude to all those who made the application for reaccreditation successful. Dr Juliet Q Dalagan, Vice President for Higher Education, also acknowledged the Deans and administrators who led the committees that worked hard and "pressed on" paving the way for this institutional accomplishment.
Members of the community were treated to ice cream and popcorn during the celebration which ended with a luncheon.
Communications & Promotions Office