Distance may separate University of San Agustin alumni from their beloved alma mater, but their commitment to its Augustinian values remains unshakeable—a truth powerfully demonstrated by the University of San Agustin International Foundation, Inc.’s pioneering initiative to establish a Retirement of the Clergy fund.
Founded through the inspiration and motivation of Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, USAIFI was established as a nonprofit entity in the United States to serve the university’s mission. The foundation conceived and championed this advocacy as a heartfelt acknowledgment of the countless Augustinian friars who have dedicated their lives to shaping generations of Augustinians through their service to education. These friars have served not merely as educators, but as mentors, spiritual guides, and pillars of the University community. By spearheading this fund, USAIFI demonstrates that being an Augustinian means honoring those who formed us, ensuring their dignified retirement after years of selfless service.
USAIFI’s Comprehensive Advocacies
Beyond this landmark clergy retirement initiative, USAIFI’s impact extends through multiple channels of support, encompassing a wide range of advocacies that strengthen and is aligned with the University’s mission:
- Department Advocacy and Professorial Chair – USAIFI supports academic excellence by funding departmental programs and establishing professorial chairs that elevate the quality of education and research at the university.
- Scholarship and Grants for Working Students – The foundation has made substantial contributions to the University’s scholarship advocacy, funding educational opportunities for deserving students and ensuring that financial constraints never dim the potential of bright young minds, particularly those who must work while pursuing their education.
- Naming Rights – Through naming opportunities, USAIFI provides alumni with meaningful ways to leave lasting legacies while supporting campus development and infrastructure.
- Renovation and Innovations – The foundation supports the modernization and enhancement of university facilities, ensuring that students and faculty have access to state-of-the-art learning environments.
- Healthcare, Public Health, and Disaster Relief – Demonstrating the Augustinian commitment to service beyond the campus, USAIFI extends its reach to support healthcare initiatives, public health programs, and disaster relief efforts that benefit the broader community.
- Retirement of the Friars – As the pioneering advocacy that launched USAIFI’s mission, the Clergy Retirement Fund remains central to the foundation’s purpose, recognizing the friars’ invaluable service to education and ensuring their dignity in retirement.
Continuing the Mission Through Partnership
USAIFI remains deeply committed to working alongside the current administration under Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, ensuring alignment between international alumni efforts and the University’s vision. Working closely with the University administration through the Philanthropic, External and Alumni Relations (PEAR) and the Center for Information and Communications Support Services (CICSS), the international alumni organization has launched usaifi.org, a dynamic digital platform that serves as a global hub for USA’s advocacies and initiatives. The website connects Augustinians scattered across continents, transforming geographical separation into a vibrant virtual community united by shared values and purpose.
For Augustinians across the globe, USAIFI stands as a shining example of what becomes possible when alumni transform gratitude into action. Whether residing in the U.S. or Canada, alumni carry within them the responsibility and privilege of advancing the values instilled during their formative years at the University of San Agustin. The foundation’s work demonstrates that meaningful support takes many forms—from initiating groundbreaking advocacies like the Clergy Retirement Fund to amplifying the university’s mission through digital platforms and supporting everything from scholarships to healthcare initiatives. The message is clear: your alma mater needs you, welcomes your involvement, and provides countless opportunities to make a difference. Visit usaifi.org to explore how you can leave your mark on the institution that helped shape who you are today.
For more information about USAIFI’s initiatives or to support the University of San Agustin, visit usaifi.org.
Augustinians united across borders: USAIFI hosted the June induction ceremony, welcoming University President Fr. Arnel S. Dizon, OSA, and Fr. Jonas Mejares, OSA, Prior and Vice President for Augustinian Formation and Mission, celebrating the enduring bond between international alumni and the University of San Agustin.