With excellence, grace, and heartfelt gratitude, Kyla Marie Ysabelle M. Carreon, a proud graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management program, stood at the helm of Batch 2025 as valedictorian during the 76th Commencement Exercises of St. Paul University Iloilo, held at the Grand Xing Hotel on June 22, 2025.

Graduated Magna Cum Laude, Carreon was honored with several prestigious awards, including the CHED UNIFAST Academic Excellence Award and the Rotary Academic Excellence Award. Within the university, she was recognized as Paulinian Tourism Student of the Year (Silver), received the Service Award (Gold), and earned the coveted University Best Thesis Award.

At the college level, Carreon continued to shine, receiving the Leadership Award (Gold), Service Award (Gold), Culture and Arts Awards for Dance (Gold) and Elocution (Gold), and the Community Extension Service Award (Silver) — a reflection of her holistic excellence in academics, leadership, arts, and community service.

In her valedictory address, Carreon expressed deep appreciation to the university and its leaders. “Under the leadership of Sister Teresita C. Baricaua, SPC, and the support of our academic leaders, we have been nurtured and equipped to take on the world,” she said.

Carreon extended her heartfelt gratitude to the College of Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, and Nutrition and Dietetics, recognizing the invaluable guidance of the faculty and their Dean, Dr. Elsie B. Tedoco. “Your dedication has shaped us not only into skilled professionals but compassionate individuals ready to serve,” she remarked.

Touching the hearts of everyone present, Carreon shared a deeply personal story. “Exactly one week ago, when I learned I would deliver this valedictory address, I was overwhelmed. The weight of this honor made me search deeply for words worthy of this moment,” she said.

She found inspiration in the story of her mother — a woman who once dreamed of pursuing a college education in English due to her love for public speaking. “But life’s harsh realities, financial hardships, and responsibilities steered her onto a different path. She gave up her dreams to raise her children, hoping we could live what she could not,” Carreon shared.

Ending her speech with a powerful call to action, Carreon reminded her fellow graduates of their Paulinian identity: “In this world, it is not enough to seek success for ourselves alone. We are called to be more than graduates. We are called to be true Paulinians — living embodiments of the 5Cs: Christ-Centeredness, Commission, Community, Charism, and Charity.”

Carreon’s achievements, story, and values are a powerful testimony to the strength of purpose, resilience, and faith — and serve as an inspiration to the Paulinian community and beyond.