The University of the Cordilleras College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (UC-CHTM) celebrated the Class of 2023 with the Toast to the Graduates event on August 9, 2023. Serving as the culminating activity for graduating students, this occasion not only marked an important academic milestone but also offered hands-on learning for students from various UC-CHTM courses, including THM 115 (Introduction to Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, & Events Management), HM 116 (Fundamentals in Food Service Operations), and CM 155 (Gastronomy – Food & Culture). The event embodied UC-CHTM’s commitment to Outcome-Based Education (OBE), allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world context.
The theme for the event, Secret Garden Soiree: A Crazy Rich Afternoon Tea, transformed the UC Theater into an enchanted garden, with lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and whimsical décor that evoked a magical ambiance. Guests, including esteemed faculty members, staff, and graduates, arrived dressed to complement the theme, adding a layer of elegance and sophistication to the gathering. Mr. Aldwin Lao and Ms. Kimberly Oliveros were crowned “Warden and Mistress of the Magical Forest,” showcasing exceptional style and embodying the spirit of the evening.
Hosted by student leaders Allan James Gannaban and Eula Arielle Paltep, the program began with vibrant performances by UC-CHTM students, setting a celebratory tone. Faculty members, including the Dean, Program Chair, and other instructors, offered congratulatory messages, sharing wisdom and industry insights to guide graduates as they embark on their professional journeys. The event also featured messages from UC-CHTM’s industry partners, offering words of encouragement and motivation for the graduates, along with participation from UC-CHTM’s alumni, who shared inspiring stories from their own career paths.
Reflecting on their experiences, the graduates shared highlights from their internships, recalling valuable lessons learned and moments of growth within real-world hospitality and tourism settings. The event emphasized the importance of these practical experiences as foundational to their future careers, bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice. The Toast to the Graduates not only celebrated the hard work, resilience, and dedication of the UC-CHTM Class of 2023 but also underscored the college’s commitment to experiential learning, providing students with a platform to gain confidence, refine skills, and expand their professional networks.
By:
Mr. RYAN ROY QUIRANTE BARTOLOME
Sustainability Program Coordinator, UC CHTM
