In a move to honor the rich legacy of leadership and academic excellence of its past deans, the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS), University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) has created a Dean’s Corner in the FMDS Website.
This newly created website page stands as a tribute to the esteemed deans of the FMDS who served from 2004 to the present. The guidance and leadership of these previous deans profoundly influenced the FMDS’ trajectory throughout its history. From Dr. Paz H. Diaz, the first Dean of FMDS, to the current leader, Dr. Joane V. Serrano, this site provides an insightful glimpse into FMDS’ programs, contributions, and academic pursuits.
Dr. Joane V. Serrano, the current dean of FMDS, brings a wealth of expertise in the areas of sustainability, environmental advocacy, and gender empowerment. Her multifaceted career spans teaching, research, and public service engagements, underscoring her commitment to fostering inclusive, diverse, and sustainable academic initiatives.
Preceding Dr. Serrano is Dr. Primo G. Garcia, a professor specializing in organization and management, particularly in open and distance e-learning and teaching. Dr. Garcia led the way toward academic innovation. His tenure as Dean was marked by significant progress in enhancement of the faculty members’ competence in online learning, advancement in online learner and academic support systems, and quality management through academic program improvement initiative projects.
Dr. Inocencio E. Buot Jr., a UP Scientist and professor renowned for his expertise in botany, plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental science, contributed significantly to FMDS by enhancing its academic and administrative operations. His tenure saw the inception and development of key academic programs, further solidifying FMDS’ commitment to interdisciplinary education.
Dr. Maria Fe Villamejor-Mendoza, a leader in public administration and governance, supported the development of various disciplines within FMDS. Her leadership helped grow fields such as environment and natural resources management, public health, and social work.
Dr. Paz H. Diaz, the first dean, established the foundation for FMDS. Her expertise in development communication and entrepreneurship education created a strong base for the Faculty, emphasizing interdisciplinary education and a global outlook in its academic goals.
FMDS was established in 2004 when two units, the Faculty of Management Sciences (FMS) and the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) were merged to create a more comprehensive and integrated approach to management and development studies.
The FMDS Dean’s Corner also recognizes the former deans of the Faculty of Management Sciences, including Dr. Melinda F. Lumanta (1999-2003), and the Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Teresita I. Barcelo (1999-2001) and Dr. Caridad Ancheta (2001-2003) who played key roles in shaping the vision and direction of the new FMDS.
This digital initiative underscores the Faculty’s commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing the future of the Faculty of Management and Development Studies.
Checkout the FMDS Dean’s Corner at https://fmds.upou.edu.ph/deans-corner/
Written by: Dona Lyn Piamonte | Edited by: Larry Cruz
Written by Dona Lyn M. Piamonte • Edited by Larry N. Cruz
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