Dr. Feliciano G. Calora, Jr., director of the Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD) of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), was appointed as the sixth president of the Benguet State University (BSU).
Dr. Calora recently took his oath of office at the central office of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) before CHED Chairperson Dr. Patricia Licuanan and Commissioner Alex Brillantes.
BSU Board of Regents selected Dr. Calora from the eight applicants vying for the position following a stringent selection process, which included public presentation of vision, mission, and goals, interview with the search committee, and final interview with the CHED Commissioners.
As the new president, Dr. Calora envisions to make BSU a premier university in Asia providing globally competitive education which promotes sustainable development and aggressive response to climate change.
“It is high time that I give back to the University,” Calora said, referring to his more than 20 years of experience working in BSU.
Prior to joining DOST-PCAARRD in 2012, Dr. Calora worked with BSU for 26 years as faculty and administrator. Among the posts he held were: dean of the college of forestry, vice president for academic affairs, and director for planning and development.
“The Council may have lost a member of its Directorate but it earned a stronger partnership in research and development with BSU having Dr. Calora as the newly appointed president,” DOST-PCAARRD Acting Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora said.
Incidentally, Dr. Calora’s appointment coincides with the 100th Founding Anniversary of the University, making him the centennial BSU president.