Foundation University honored recently its Outstanding Alumni and Generations of Greyhounds whose journeys continue to bring pride to their alma mater and inspiration to the community. As the university celebrates these individuals and families, it is reflective of the institution’s core values of excellence, commitment, integrity, and service.
For its 76th founding anniversary celebration, two distinguished female alumni were honored. Sophia Lynn Lumantod is a proud graduate of the Foundation University High School Class of 1975 and holder of a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree earned in 1979. Her professional life stands as a remarkable example of dedication to public service, leadership, and integrity.
For more than four decades, Lumantod built an exemplary career at the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). Through years of committed service, she steadily rose through the ranks, holding key leadership positions such as Human Resource Officer, Officer- in- Charge of the Management Division, Chief Administrative Officer, and eventually Chief Administrative Officer of NTC Region 7. In these roles, she played a vital part in strengthening organizational systems, guiding policy implementation, and supporting regulatory operations in one of the country’s most essential government agencies.
Beyond her formal responsibilities, Lumantod actively served in various committees, cooperatives, inter-agency groups, and civic organizations. Her involvement extended to initiatives in governance, telecommunications development, gender equality, and public welfare. Her long-standing engagement with NATELCOM, NTC committees, and partnerships with local government units reflects a career deeply rooted in nation building.
Her loyalty to Foundation University has remained steadfast through the years. One of her notable contributions to the university was her involvement in facilitating the granting of its FM radio franchise, a milestone that strengthened FU’s capacity for community service, information dissemination, and public engagement. Lumantod’s life and career embody leadership with integrity and service with purpose, truly reflecting the values instilled by Foundation University.
Also honored as an Outstanding Alumna is Atty. Ester A. Futalan, Ed.D, an accomplished educator, legal professional, peace advocate, and public servant. A graduate of Foundation University’s Doctor of Education program, Class of 2013, Atty. Futalan has built a distinguished career anchored on academic excellence, compassion, and servant leadership.
Her journey in the Department of Education spans decades of progressive leadership. She has served in nearly every major leadership role in basic education, including Public Schools District Supervisor, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent in multiple provinces, Schools Division Superintendent, and currently as Officer-in-Charge Director III of the Bureau of Learning Delivery at the Department of Education Central Office.
Atty. Futalan’s advancing to a higher role in the hierarchy was shaped by discipline, innovation, and a deep commitment to learners and educators. Her contributions earned her some of the highest recognitions in the profession, including the Career Executive Service Officer designation and national honors such as GAWAD SULO for Eminent Alumni and the Philippine Normal University (PNU) Alumni Trailblazer Award.
Despite her many achievements, she has remained deeply connected to Foundation University. She continues to support university initiatives, speak at institutional events, mentor future educators, and proudly carry the Greyhound spirit in every role she fulfills. Her life is a testament to what an FU education ignites – purpose, excellence, and service beyond the classroom.
Also honored on the same occasion were families whose bond with Foundation University spans generations. The Generations of Greyhounds recognition is given to families who have made FU a part of their lives across time, reflecting enduring trust in the institution and a shared belief in the power of quality education.
Recognized is the Catarata Family, whose connection to Foundation University spans three generations. The first generation includes Andrea Tecio Catarata, a graduate of High School, Bachelor of Secondary Education, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Education, alongside Natalia Tecio Tatoy, Maura Tecio, Felisa Tecio Ubag, and Florencia Tecio Mapili, all of whom pursued various academic programs at FU.
The second generation continued this legacy through Arthur Catarata and Annabelle Catarata. The third generation proudly carries the tradition forward with Pauline Marie Catarata, Arthur Mico Catarata, and Aprylle Marie Catarata.
Their story reflects a strong and lasting partnership between Foundation University and the families it serves, built on shared values, mutual trust, and a commitment to education that transcends time.
Providing a show-stopping entertainment was Andy Bais, a classmate of Lumantod and a member of the golden jubilarian class.
Nominations for Outstanding Alumni will soon be underway as Foundation University celebrates its 77th founding anniversary this year. (With reports from the University Alumni Relations Office through Eiichi Ezaki) | NWI
