Universidad de Sta. Isabel
Universidad de Sta. Isabel (USI), a university of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul, is located in Naga City, Philippines. It was founded on November 5, 1867 by Most Rev. Bishop Francisco C. Gainza, O.P. , then Bishop of Caceres. The school, then known as Colegio de Sta. Isabel (CSI), became the first teacher training institution in the Philippines and in the Far East by decree of Amadeo of Saboya, signed January 11, 1872. It was granted university status on November 17, 2002.
USI's motto is "Where Love Is Service".
In 2007, students at the university numbered more than 6,000. Its educational programs are based on provisions of the Philippine Constitution, approved and sanctioned by the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education.
USI offers more than 20 undergraduate programs that lead to Bachelors degrees. There are two year courses in computer technology and management and there is a diploma-awarding caregiver course. Special programs include call center training and teacher certification.
Graduate schools at USI include: Doctor of Philosophy in Human Development Management; Master of Arts in Education with concentrations in Administration and Supervision or Guidance and Counseling; Master of Arts in Nursing with specialization in Community Health Nursing or Medical-Surgical Nursing; Master in Management.
USI's Community Extension Services (CES) focuses on direct service to the poor and marginalized, especially in urban areas. The Marillac Home for the Elderly is one focus of CES outreach.
The USI Ecology Park under development in Bgy. Consocep, which is presently undergoing reforestation, is located on the Tigaon side of the Mt. Isarog slope. Future plans include a plant nursery, additional reforestation, herbal medicine garden, and a community center.
Sister Asuncion G. Evidente, DC has served as the university's president since 2005.
