Legacy: A History with a Human Face
"An incredible story of survival," she spoke before alumni, school officials and guests. After 10 months of writing and 2 1/2 years of conducting intensive research and editing, Mrs. Erlinda Gloria's first book titled "Legacy" was launched as a gift for Northwestern University on March 6 at the University Worship Center.
In an interview, Mrs. Gloria who spent all her professional life in the university said that this beautiful story was written for the younger generations. She added that "the story is inspiring because if you've been a part of Northwestern, you cannot help but be encouraged by its humble beginnings, how it struggled hard to be what it is today and how these good men and women were able to translate their dreams into reality."
Legacy is a historical research of the development of NWU from a small academy to a college, up until it reached university status. It also accounts for the struggles of the founders who made education accessible and affordable to the Ilocanos in aid of further developing their full potential.
Mrs. Gloria rose from the ranks as a high school teacher to assistant principal, then to principal, college instructor to professor, Dean of Students Affairs to Vice-President for Academic Affairs, member of the Board of Directors and Academic Consultant.
She recalled during her speech the difficulties of the founders of putting up an institution of learning in Ilocos Norte. "They conducted classes in rented houses and borrowed chairs and tables from relatives and friends. They volunteered to teach even without pay or on deferred salaries. Soon enrollment swelled as students were admitted even with a very small amount or no amount at all or simply by executing promissory notes."
"Poverty did not deny students admission," she added.
Mrs. Gloria explained that the book is significant in many ways because it recorded for posterity the good deeds of people who took part in its growth and development. It will guide the future leaders in decision-making knowing what made Northwestern what it is today.
Meanwhile, NWU's Center for Research and Development Director Dr. Estrella Calixto shared that she appreciated the struggle of the founders and the efforts of the present Board of Directors and Administration for putting quality into the processes of the academe and in meeting the needs of the academic community.
Dr. Calixto said that the presence of many course offerings being offered reflects its service-orientedness to be able to cater to the varied interests and needs of students and families.
"The support structures for academic quality and excellence like the: library, the internet facilities, its faculty and staff and other services like student affairs, cultural affairs, alumni affairs, research and extension programs and integrated agriculture development and lately the Eco-Tourism Park and Botanic Gardens are projects and facilities NWU can be proud of. Of course, this is due to the quality of leadership shown over the years." she said.
Praises for the Legacy's author were also shared by a school official and an alumnus.
Mrs. Josephine Bolusan, University Chief Cashier said, "I believe that you are living your mission because despite all the tribulations, you still found in your heart to complete the task with excellence. I believe that this great work will stand the test of time."
"'Kudos' is all I can say to Mrs. Erlinda Gloria. NWU could not have found a better author to write and chronicle NWU's story than her. She has spent the best and most productive years of her life at Northwestern and as such, she more than anybody among us, is the authority on the subject," Dr. Ernie Lumaoang said.