Clarissa Avendaño, a former UST Museum assistant director and College of Architecture faculty member, died on March 15. She was 60.
Her death was announced by the UST Museum in a Facebook post.
Avendaño obtained her bachelor’s degree in architecture at the University in 1982 and finished her master’s degree in 2004.
As assistant director of the UST Museum, she helped formulate the conservation plan of the UST Main Building, which was the first educational institution to join the roster of “National Cultural Treasures” by the National Museum.
Avendaño also crafted the emergency protocols of the UST Museum.
She assisted Fr. Isidro Abaño, O.P. in establishing the UST Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics. She was also a member of the International Council of Museums Committee for University Museums and Collections.
Arianna Avendaño, niece of the late architect, said Avendaño was supposed to be her godmother at her wedding this month.
“She was supposed to be my ninang in our wedding this month, but she got sick. But still she told us that she’ll be there to guide us and she’ll always pray for us,” Avendaño told the Varsitarian.
Abaño presided over a funeral Mass for Avendaño at Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on March 17.
https://www.facebook.com/SantisimoRosarioUST/videos/349005779762893
“Architect Clarissa Avendaño, whom we dearly or fondly called ‘Ma’am Issa,’ was one of the important persons who brought the birth of cultural heritage and appreciation to (UST). Being the assistant director of [the] UST Museum for nine years, she further advanced the growth of the UST Museum both in principles and practices,” Abaño said.
Abaño also cited Avendaño’s contribution to the research of the heritage value of the University’s Main Building, which led to its designation as a “National Cultural Treasure.”
“All of these happened because of her diligence and dedication to her responsibilities. She’s a very excellent example of a person who performs well,” said Abaño.
Garry Wilson Ponce, an alumnus of the College of Fine Arts and Design, also recounted the late architect’s generosity, which, he said, helped him finish his studies.
“She technically made it possible for me to graduate and finish my studies with the financial help that she gave to me,” Ponce told the Varsitarian.
“When I always go on duty at the office, she would ask how I was feeling and how my studies were doing. She was really soft spoken and she would laugh at my jokes when we talked. Ma’am Issa was really selfless and generous,” he added.
Her wake was held at Arlington Memorial Chapels in Araneta Avenue, Quezon City. Avendaño’s remains were cremated on March 18.
