The University of Makati (UMak) celebrated 44 years of surmounting the evolving educational system from February 29 to March 4, 2016, with the theme “Celebrating Success and Fortitude @44.”

The 2016 Commencement Speeches 

The time has come once again for the graduates of the University of Makati (UMak) to embark on a new journey. UMak’s 43^rd Commencement Exercises on April 7, 2016 and Higher School ng UMak’s 3^rd Commencement Exercises on April 8, 2016 opened the door of opportunities, which the graduates can seize in the constant pursuit of their dreams.

What better way to send off these promising graduates than with four remarkable commencement messages.  With the theme “Bridging the National Agenda for Education with Redefined Priority Goals and Strategies,” the four equally remarkable keynote speakers from different fields of expertise delivered wisdom beyond the four corners of the classroom. Take a look at some of the unforgettable lines from the experts.

1. BE THANKFUL THAT LIFE IS NEVER EASY OR PREDICTABLE

DALISAY BRAWNER, Ed. D.

Vice President for Academic Affairs (Retired), University of Makati

7 April 2016

College of Arts and Sciences Ÿ College of Business Administration Ÿ Center for Broadcast and Digital Arts Ÿ Center of Human Kinesthetics Ÿ School of Continuing Professional Education

“… You are part of the golden harvest of this institution. You are a witness of the University’s glorious days, its golden era, not necessarily based on the University’s chronological number of years of existence rather on the University’s mark of an indelible leadership and achievements in a span of 44 years.  Use this as a tool for you to achieve your goals and objectives in life.

Above all, life is never easy or perfectible, or completely predictable, it is never a walk in the park but you can still enjoy it if you’re happy. You can be happy if you continue to be grateful. Be humble and thankful.  Be thankful that you don’t have everything you desire, if you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don’t know something for it gives the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times because during those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful when you’re tired and weary because it means you’ve made a difference. Go where you are needed and where your talents can be tapped to the max …”