In preparation for Academic Year (AY) 2026-2027, Saint Louis University (SLU) held its Calendar Summit on 9 June 2026 at Fr. Francis Gevers Hall, Diego Silang Building, SLU Main Campus. Focused on fostering synchronicity through operational planning and digitalization, the summit brought together heads of offices to align efforts, balance academic rigor with holistic development, and strategically chart a clear course in the coming AY.
University Registrar, Andrew S. Macalma, PhD, detailed the goals of the Summit: to align activities with the University’s vision and synergize efforts; to establish a comprehensive, fixed academic calendar; to strengthen executive engagement through synchronicity; and to enhance operational efficiency through early planning and organization.
Atty. Shellah Yzanne P. Merced, the SLU Vice President for Administration, then discussed the scheduling guide and ground rules to ensure that the conduct of activities and events– whether they be university-wide, per cluster, or per school or unit– is streamlined and collaborative.
To facilitate the process, the Paper Trail Facilities Management System was officially launched. SLU Office of Institutional Development and Quality Assurance (OIDQA) Coordinator Kasima Rose M. Mendoza presented the facility reservation workflow and walked through the key functions in using the tool. Notably, the new Paper Trail program optimizes facilities requests and eliminates paper-based processing.
Following the discussions and presentations, the different clusters held breakout workshop sessions to map their university-wide, cluster-level, and unit-level activities, which were then presented to the body immediately afterward.
The cluster reports proceeded with the following presenters:
- Mission and Identity Cluster: Koshia Marie C. Rosete, Office of the Vice President for Mission and Identity Secretary
- Academic Cluster: Atty. Yasmine Lee R. Tadeo, School of Law Dean
- Administrative Cluster: Jean Karen G. Jaime, Assistant Director of the Human Resource Department
- Office of the Internal Auditor: Edwin K. Shagyo, Audit Staff
- Finance Cluster: Bernard F. Ticangen, Office of the VP for Finance Secretary
In concluding the summit, Atty. Merced gave closing remarks, underscoring the recurring theme of unified rhythm and synchronicity: when coordinated systems and meaningful human relationships meet, they create a “fluid middle ground”, which is a balanced space where unified rhythm and purposeful connection converge and where efficiency and creativity, coordination and individuality can coexist.
As the day-long summit comes to an end and as the University begins with another academic year, may there be a “unified rhythm that keeps us alive in purpose and steady in action”, by remaining open in “synchronicity that gives us meaning in our work,” said Atty. Merced. She added, “May we continue to build a community that is not only organized but also deeply responsive, reflective, and alive with purpose.”
As SLU sets out its plans in line with Missio et Excellentia, the 2026 Calendar Summit synergized efforts for an impactful university life. This initiative affirmed United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
