One fine educator

An educator sometimes waits a lifetime for the confirmation that her dedicated efforts to her profession have developed the greatest potentials among her students.

A few are blessed and reap gratifying and fulfilling  rewards early on. Such an accomplished, well-respected  educator is Dr. Mila Castillo  Espina.

Mila was recognized not with plaques and awards, but with warm embraces and sincere smiles.  The most meaningful of all were the heartfelt signs of gratitude expressed by her many batches of students who have gone on to fame and stardom.  It was obvious that Dr. Espina had touched their very soul and drawn out their special individual talents to be shared with the world.  It's amazing the difference one person can make. So let's take a look at how it happened!

At her recent birthday celebration held at White Gold House, invitees from literally all walks of life, representing the different sectors in the community, the government officials, Diplomatic Corp, civic leaders, professionals, her colleagues in the media, students and alumnae gathered to pay tribute to a fine dynamic lady who has touched and made a difference in their lives.

Mila's educational qualification embraces various specializations in English, history, education, management, arts and culture, and media and public relations. She has selflessly and loyally served the University of San Jose Recoletos for 43 solid years from 1964 to the present. She started as a classroom teacher then eventually became an English Critic in the high school department with part time loads in speech and English in college for seven years.

After obtaining her Master of Arts in Literature, Mila was elevated as a college teacher, moving on to head the English Department. In 1970 she became Dean, liberal arts which she re-named Arts and Sciences. She held the position for 27 years during which time she developed new courses such as Tourism and Hospitality Services, HRM, MassCom, Liacom, with aligned masteral and doctoral programs in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Not only is her success evident in education but also in community service and corporate socio-civic groups, as well. She actively participates in the many laudable projects of the different organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce, The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Zonta Club, Women in Travel, and the Central Visayas Regional Tourism Council. She is also currently involved in the Amparito Llamas Lhuillier Foundation that grants scholarships to deserving college students.

Dr. Espina was a recipient of various awards, among them as Outstanding Dean (DECS) 1984-86; Outstanding Educator (City of Cebu), Outstanding Alumna of Maryknoll, University of Sto. Tomas and University of San Carlos and Tourism Awardee given by the Women-In-Travel Philippines.

Dr. Mila Castillo Espina cherishes life, celebration and joy. She takes pride in all her undertakings and endeavors. She finds strength in her faith. We are moved and exhilarated by the person that  she is. A true, loyal friend indeed.