Sister Ma. Marissa R. Viri, RVM — Honored at UST 8th Distinguished Thomasian Alumni Night

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) recently honored its outstanding alumni at the 8th Distinguished Thomasian Alumni Night on November 18, 2023. Among the esteemed recipients was Sister Ma. Marissa R. Viri, RVM, a proud Thomasian alumna who has made significant contributions to the field of Education.

Sister Marissa graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1980 and pursued a Master of Science in Pharmacy in 1993. Following a one-year tenure as a Quality Control Analyst in a pharmaceutical firm, Sister Marissa joined the Congregation of the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) and has remained a dedicated member for nearly four decades, reflecting UST’s values of competence, compassion, and commitment. Throughout this extensive period, she seamlessly integrated her career as a Pharmacist with administrative responsibilities, mirroring the university’s core values.

Undertaking diverse roles within the educational institutions overseen by the RVM Congregation in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, where these schools cater to marginalized communities and remote regions, Sister Marissa has consistently demonstrated competence and compassion in her service. Her dedication to her profession has been unwavering, and she has always shown her expertise through her work in the education sector.

This is not Sister Marissa’s first recognition for her outstanding achievements. In 2021, UST Faculty of Pharmacy Alumni Association and Scholarship Foundation Inc. also awarded her Distinguished Alumni in the field of Education, a testament to her enduring commitment to shaping the minds of future generations. In 2014, she received the Outstanding Achievement in Education award, recognizing her significant contributions to the field.

Sister Marissa Viri’s influence extends far beyond the university walls. She has held notable positions and affiliations, showcasing her leadership prowess and dedication to advancing Education. Serving as the President of the University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) since 2012, Sister Marissa has demonstrated visionary leadership, guiding the institution to new heights of excellence.

Additionally, her role as Vice President of the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU) since 2017 underscores her commitment to maintaining and enhancing the quality of Education in the country. As the President of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) from 2020 to 2023, Sister Marissa has played a pivotal role in shaping education policies and advocating for the welfare of students and educators alike.

Congratulations, Sister Marissa, on this well-deserved recognition! Your contributions to the field of pharmacy and Education are genuinely remarkable and reflect the core values of competence, compassion, and commitment instilled by the University of Santo Tomas. Mabuhay ka!