Fifteenth Year Anniversary

This weekend marks 15 years since the college was founded by the Franciscan Sister Damon Nolan and Dick Leahy. It is also the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi and the college interdepartmental games called the Intercarreras. There is a lot to share, but I will highlight some of the best moments (imho).

During the day on Thursday and Friday were sports -- basketball, soccer, mini-soccer, races, volleyball -- from 7:00 a.m. until sunset. Here are some photos of the basketball excitement:






Sadly, Friday afternoon we learned of the accidental death of a recent graduate of the agronomy program, Nelva Guzmán. Her life was honored with moments of silence throughout the weekend, and at mass on Saturday.

Nelva got her degree in April, and went through the graduation ceremony in August (photo of Nelva receiving diploma from Father Freddy).

Friday evening was the tránsito, the celebration of the migration of St. Francis's soul to Heaven. In honor, Sister Jean Morrissey helped students in the pre-university program to do a reenactment of the life of Francis.



Saturday morning was a first communion and confirmation mass for over fifty students.










Saturday afternoon was a BBQ, prepared by the university administrators, for all.






This was followed by the clásico, a soccer game between agronomy and vet science graduates, many who were from the first class of students at the college (vet won, 4 to 2).



Sister Christine Cullen, who was with Sister Damon when the college was young, arrived, to the great surprise and joy of many.

Here she is with Federico Carrizales, Juan Paucara and Gerónimo Álvarez.

The evenings were talent nights, with each department competing in events like dance, theater, and poetry recitation. Here vet students dance in surgery costume.



The last night, we remembered Sister Damon and many others that were instrumental in making the college a success over the years.


Sunday (today) were the traditional dances. It rained on and off, but it didn't dampen the spirit of the dancers.









Tonight is a fiesta where students will dance and some trophies will be given out. The spirit shown over the weekend has definately demonstrated that all of our students are winners. And as is often said (to the losing team): Pero sí, has ganado -- ¡has ganado experiencia! (But you did win -- you won experience!).

There are lots more photos in my October 2008 Google photo album if you are interested. And more photos of the dance from Sr. Jean Morrissey here.