Accountancy Dean Patricia Empleo, originally among 38 faculty members set to retire, will remain in her post this academic year.
In an interview with the Varsitarian, Empleo said she would continue to serve as dean of the UST-Alfredo M. Velayo College of Accountancy after the University requested her extension as an administrator.
“I was officially retired [on] July 31. But even before July, I was sort of advised that I would be extended. Not necessarily as academic staff, but as an administrator,” Empleo said.
Empleo was honored as one of the 38 faculty retirees on July 17 at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom of the Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building.
She admitted having reservations in retaining her deanship due to other job offers and a scheduling conflict with her work as author of accounting books.
Empleo said she would use her extended term to focus on succession planning and develop the leadership skills of people under her.
She considers everyone in the office as a potential successor.
“As far as the ability to perform the tasks, anyone here can perform them. It is just that sometimes leadership requires a sense of maturity,” she said.
“Siguro ‘yon lang ang hinahanap ko kasi mga bata, iba ang disposition ng bata at iba ang disposition ninyo sa disposition ng teacher. Iba rin ‘yong disposition ng dean sa disposition ng assistant dean or college secretary or the program chairs,” she added.
Empleo delivered the inaugural lecture or Discurso de Apertura on Tuesday, Aug. 5, to mark the opening of the Academic Year 2025-2026.
