2008 Woodie Awards
Anton Taruc is this year's class Valedictorian
Zack Farmer
Issue date: 4/25/06 Section: News
|
Taruc has been involved in a number of clubs and activities on campus including Carnival 4 Kids, Catholic Institute for Lasallian Social Action (CILSA), and the International Club, of which he is currently the co-president. "When you're involved in a group, it helps you grow and develop," Taruc said.
Maureen Little, Coordinator for International Programs, has known Taruc since his freshman year and has many fond memories. "One of my fondest memories of Anton is during an International Club dinner event on campus, he invited some of the evening custodial and buildings and grounds staff to join us. This is who he is," she said.
The native Filipino saw the members of the Saint Mary's community as more than friends. "The people I've met were the first people I met in the United States," Taruc said. "They are like my brothers and sisters."
One of the first clubs on campus Taruc became involved in was CILSA. "I've been so blessed," said Taruc. "I found a great community with CILSA. The confidence through CILSA allowed me to grow."
"My favorite quote is 'Be the change you wish to see in the world.' Gandhi," said Little. "Anton continuously strives to be the change he wishes to see in the world."
When asked about his ability to perform at a high level during his time at Saint Mary's, Taruc remembered something that his mother would always ask him "Is my cup filled? Is it something I'm happy with?" Taruc said. "That's how I avoid burnout."
After graduating from Saint Mary's, Taruc is planning to join the Peace Corps and travel to either Eastern Europe or Central Asia. Afterwards he wants to attend graduate school and study Peace & Conflict Studies.
"The title of my speech is 'What is Better,'" Taruc said. "What's better than college? The college remembering you. Whether that means being involved in clubs, sports. [You should] leave memories for the school."
Taruc wanted to leave one message for the senior class. Taruc said, "Let us always have the graciousness to look at the past with a thank you and the courage to face the future with a 'Yes.'"