Give Thanks.

The Ateneo Alumni Scholars Association (AASA) ushered in the new year with a spirit of gratitude during its annual New Year Gathering Lunch on January 20, 2024, bringing together the AASA Board of Directors (BOD), AASA Staff and AASA enrolled scholars. The event commenced with a solemn Mass at the Ateneo College Chapel, presided by AASA Founder, Fr. Bill H. Kreutz, SJ, who emphasized the importance of thanksgiving in acknowledging the generous benefactors whose unwavering support continuously shapes the lives of AASA scholars. Fr. Bill concluded his homily by sharing the song “Sometimes” popularized by the Carpenters, reminding everyone to reflect on moments of gratitude and to be mindful when it may be unintentionally overlooked.

Following the inspiring Mass, attendees moved to the CTC lunch venue with a short program hosted by former AASA president, Dr Ron Cruz. Ms Lorna Fabian, the AASA President, warmly welcomed all guests which was then followed by the recognition of AASA BOD’s and the 66 AASA enrolled scholars. The game portion of the event was led by AASA alum scholar and youngest BOD member, Mr Antwa Constantino, where representatives from each year level actively participated. After a duel between graduating seniors and freshmen, the fun game was competitively won by the first-year students.

The highlight of the event featured creative presentations from each year level with lively song numbers and videos on the topic “How Thankful Are We for the Gift of Scholarship and How will we live out this Gratitude in 2024.” A touching video from the third-year scholars emphasized their dedication to always return to AASA, complemented with a song performance echoing, “But of all the gifts and treasures, there’s nothing compared to yours.” The festivities concluded with the distribution of ‘ampao’ to scholars and prizes for game winners, marking a memorable end to a day filled with gratitude and anticipation of a promising new year ahead for AASA.

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