NBSC Director Joins UPG on a Pilgrimage to the Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership in Maine, USA
Last October 1-7, 2023, Dr. Mary Koren Witting-Acuesa, the International Networking Director, proudly represented Northern Bukidnon State College and the Philippines during a significant pilgrimage to the Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership in Maine, United States of America, as part of the United People Global (UPG). Dr. Witting-Acuesa was joined by 29 other UPG leaders from various corners of the globe, including Indonesia, Zimbabwe, India, Spain, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Morocco, Jordan, Colombia, Brazil, Kenya, Nepal, Mexico, Zambia, Italy, South Africa, and Albania.
This pilgrimage to the Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership encompassed an intensive week of immersive training focused on designing and executing sustainable community projects aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The UPG President, Yemi Babington Ashaye, and Bo Hoppin extended a warm welcome to the UPG Sustainability Leaders through an inspiring address.
Each day of this transformative experience comprised a series of engaging discussions on building a community of practice, adeptly managing stakeholders, propelling projects forward, forging vital connections, and engaging in physical activities that underscored the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Not only these leaders were enjoying the beautiful scenery, the serene environment, and the welcoming community, but also were learning from each other as they shared their sustainability expertise in developing new solutions to the challenges we face.
The pilgrimage culminated with a dynamic pitching activity, where each leader was allotted thirty seconds to introduce their community projects to a virtual forum and five minutes to encapsulate the essence of their entire sustainable initiatives.
This remarkable foray would not have been achievable without the unwavering support of Dr. Catherine Roween C. Almaden, College President, Dr. Jovelyn G. Delosa, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Helen E. Maasin, Vice-President for Administration and Finance, all of whom are deeply committed to effecting positive change in the community.
This involvement in the global sustainability effort is a manifestation of NBSC’s commitment to engage with the global community as we create futures and transform lives, guided by God.
