Twelve outstanding STI alumni and their stories of grit and determination were recognized at the 2025 STI Distinguished Alumni Awards. This annual event honors graduates from across STI College campuses nationwide who have exemplified excellence in their respective fields, reflecting their alma mater’s values and standard of excellence.
During the awarding ceremony held last May 30, 2025 at Okada Manila in Paranaque City, the awardees had the opportunity to share their achievements and how STI’s signature brand of holistic education helped them become the person they are today.
“I am a living proof that you can be more with STI,” said Marie Francesca “Sca” Miranda, a visual artist and the first Distinguished Alumna Awardee from STI College Ormoc. After losing both her parents in a span of two years, she decided to leave corporate life and pursue making art full-time. For her, it was a way to honor the life that her parents provided for her.
“Art became my way of healing and connecting with others. Looking back, I see how every experience at STI helped me shape my character. From sleepless thesis nights to joining the Ms. STI pageant, this school didn’t just teach me knowledge. It built in me resilience, drive, and a quiet kind of ambition, the courage to keep going,” she said.
Sca continues her growth as a visual artist by taking part in both local and international art exhibitions. Her acclaimed art pieces have been displayed at the Southeast Asian Art Festival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and the Madrid Contemporary Art Fair in Madrid, Spain.
Being more despite life’s challenges is something that Geaneen Arquiza knows a lot about. A BS in Information Technology graduate from STI College Balayan, she found her true calling in shaping young minds and imparting the values of hard work and perseverance to her students as a teacher. Throughout this journey, she didn’t let her disability limit her. Instead, it fueled her to become the best she could be, gaining recognition as the Most Outstanding Teacher in the TLE Department at Lucsuhin National High School for S.Y. 2023-2024.
“Isang malaking karangalan ito para sa akin lalo na bilang isang guro na may kapansanan. Hindi ko inakala na darating ang araw na kikilalanin ako hindi dahil sa aking kakulangan kung hindi sa aking kakayahan at kontribusyon,” said Geaneen. “Sa STI College Balayan, nagsimula akong mangarap at magsumikap na makapagtapos. Dito ko natutunan ang kahalagahan ng tiyaga, disiplina, at pananalig sa sarili—mga aral na aking baon sa pagiging guro ngayon.”
Another Distinguished Alumni Awardee who has a heart for service is Kirk Hilario, a graduate of BS in Information Technology from STI College Kalibo and a proud son of a farmer. Being the lead developer of the SEAWAVeS Project, an optimized maritime vessel monitoring system that aims to contribute to marine transport disaster resiliency and safety, is among his proudest achievements. This project has been widely recognized by various government offices in Western Visayas.
Notably, before becoming a full-time software developer, Kirk was a college and senior high school instructor and the Head of the IT Program at STI College Kalibo.
“For me STI is more than just a school, it became a nurturing ground that equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence I needed to face the world,” he said.
STI College Lucena graduate Katherine Menes also dedicated her time and expertise in molding aspiring culinarians in esteemed colleges in the country. Now, she has brought her talents to Kaleidoscope -Atlantis Palm in Dubai as a Commis III where she actively contributes to menu collaborations and oversees operations at Poseidon Cafe.
“STI became my path to achieve my dreams. Joining events like Tagisan ng Talino’s cooking competition made me showcase my best and be more confident, while lessons and hands-on activities helped build my leadership skills. All those qualities became my weapon, leading me to where I am today,” she said.
The awardees were celebrated with a ceremonial toast led by Sherwin Macalintal, STI Alumni Association (STIAA) Trustee, who regarded the awardees as shining examples of what it means to be a true STI graduate: service-oriented, trustworthy and innovative.
“As alumni, our journey doesn’t end with graduation. In fact, it continues as we help shape the future generation of STI graduates whether through mentorship, creating opportunities, or simply sharing your stories. Your influence has the power to open doors for others and ensure the legacy of excellence continues,” he added.
The outstanding alumni were recognized during the 2025 STI Distinguished Alumni Awards for exemplifying excellence as Tech Titans, Creative Catalysts, and Impact Makers, reflecting their alma mater’s values and standard of excellence.
