Honoring Excellence: USM Observes 78th Commencement Exercises, Distributes Original Diploma
June 28, 2024
Beyond Barriers: An Inspiring Success Story of a Person with Special Needs at USM
June 28, 2024
Leo Tereso A. Magno, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Chairperson, graced the 78th Commencement Exercises of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) as the guest of honor and speaker on June 28, 2024 at the USM Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Magno obtained his AB Humanities degree from Ateneo De Manila University, his post-graduate studies at Irvine Valley College, California, USA, and later pursued a master’s degree in Educational Management at the Rizal Memorial Colleges, Davao City.
Before assuming his role at the Mindanao Development Authority, he dedicated long years to education and became the president of the Rizal Memorial Colleges.
In his speech, Magno shared that his experiences in educational administration taught him the valuable impact of nurturing young minds and the transformative power of knowledge; thus, he never declined any requests to speak with young minds as he believes that the youth are the hope of the nation. He highlighted that because of his experiences, he works hard at MinDA to create opportunities for growth and development in Mindanao.
“Graduates, as you leave this institution and venture into the world, remember that you are the architects of your future. Dream big, work hard, and stay true to your values. Most importantly, be of service to Mindanao and the country.” He highlighted.
Magno, the former Presidential Assistant for Eastern Mindanao, added that the road after graduation may be challenging but is filled with endless possibilities.
In July 2023, Magno was named Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Southern Mindanao. On May 13 of this year, he was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. as MinDA chairperson.
