I
t brings me great joy to write from this space and share a glimpse at all that is happening at our university. I do so with the conviction that being part of Albizu University today means joining a profoundly human and transformative mission. This year, we have strengthened our commitment to serve three groups that need us more than ever: older adults, children, and women at risk.
We know that many of our elders live in solitude, and we cannot allow them to feel forgotten. That is why, in partnership with Fundación Triple-S, we have reached rural communities to provide support and companionship. In addition, thanks to Fundación Carvajal, our Mayagüez Campus will now have a clinic dedicated to their needs.
With children and adolescents, we have reaffirmed a very special commitment. Through Casa Albizu, and in collaboration with the government of Puerto Rico, we have ensured the continuity of evaluation and therapeutic services for minors who have been victims of sexual abuse. This is sensitive yet vital work that reminds us of the importance of protecting childhood and supporting families during their most difficult moments.
We have also reinforced our efforts to support women who suffer from gender-based violence. At our community clinics in San Juan, we have integrated students with specialized training in this field so that survivors receive the care of skilled and empathetic professionals. Through our mobile clinic, we continue to reach different corners of the island, providing mental health and speech therapy services. Wherever there is a need, we want Albizu to be present.
Our commitment to the community extends beyond Puerto Rico. Dr. Carlos Albizu Miranda’s vision was always expansive, and today we have the satisfaction of seeing that idea come to life. Recently, we celebrated the graduation of students from the Dominican Republic from the Autism and Neuroscience Program, an international collaboration that we are proud of. Likewise, in Puerto Rico, we hosted the 40th Interamerican Congress of Psychology, where professionals from 36 countries came together to explore new ways of addressing the social, environmental, and human challenges of psychology. It was a historic gathering that strengthened networks of support and opened new opportunities for learning and collaboration.
To our students, whether you’re just beginning a program or returning, I want to speak to you directly. We know that society faces challenges. However, do not forget your calling. As psychologists, therapists, speech-language pathologists, or future mental health professionals, your mission is to ensure that every person is heard and supported. To our alums, we invite you back to Albizu to keep that calling alive and to join talents and efforts in this mission.
Do not let anything distract you from your calling. As an institution, we will always be here to support and guide you. Because continuing Dr. Albizu’s work means, as our founder once said, that “love reaches beyond knowledge”. Above all, it is about working with love and from love.
The world needs Albizu. The world needs you. And together, I am confident we will continue building a future filled with hope.
