University authorities highlighted his contribution and commitment to the Institution.
The event with which the Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN) paid a fair tribute to the officials who retired at the university during 2024 was grateful and emotional.
The recognition was materialized in the person of Bernardino Gallardo Araya and René Barraza Delgado, workers who for decades contributed with their work and dedication to the growth and development of the Institution.
The ceremony, organized by the People’s Department, was headed by the rector of the UCN, Dr. Rodrigo Alda Varas. “It is a way to value and recognize the contribution they have made to the University. It seems completely fair to us to be able, after so many years and a life of dedication, to give a space to thank all the work they have carried out and that today allows us to be a University of excellence.”stated the authority.
He added that these types of initiatives contribute to the sense of community, since this way we can effectively talk about history and how we grow together as members of an organization that values the work and contribution of each of its members.
UCN LEGACY
With 36 years at the University, 30 of which he spent in his beloved Library and Documentation Unit (Antofagasta), Bernardino Gallardo says he is grateful. “The balance is positive. I think I contributed to the Institution, and thanks to working at the University I achieved many things, such as fixing my house, traveling, never being in need and meeting many people. I value good treatment and labor relations. It was a beautiful experience. I’m already missing the University, but it’s time to rest”he stated.
Emotion also overwhelmed René Barraza, who for 21 years worked as a security guard at the Services Directorate (Antofagasta). “Getting here is something nice, an achievement. Leaving UCN I have a loving feeling. The University gave me many things that were for the good of my family and especially my children who graduated as professionals in this Institution,” he highlighted.
In addition to the workers who received recognition, the University also highlights the legacy and contribution of the officials who retired this year and who for various reasons could not be present at the ceremony. In this group, Dániza Marisol Flores Bonilla, Nelson Alfredo Alarcón Pulido, Artemio Francisco Cortés Jofré, Heleny Méndiz Rojas and María Cecilia Ávila stand out.
The director of the People Department, Roberto Stolzenbach Ramírez, emphasized the importance that the delivery of this recognition has for the Institution. “It is a practice that the UCN has been developing for many years, and it is a way to value the commitment, dedication, and contributions that officials have left during their work career in our Institution. We believe that this instance also allows us to know how they are facing this new stage of their life and how they see the UCN being outside, generating a connection beyond the contractual employment scope.”he declared.
He added that the UCN hopes that its former officials generate a link with the University and can collaborate from the outside, providing their perspective and way of understanding reality, as a contribution to the Institution.
