On September 26, 2026, the One UPV Foundation (USA), Inc. marked a major milestone, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a vibrant and successful fundraising gala at The Hanover Manor in East Hanover, New Jersey.
Despite severe weather and a Nor’easter hitting the state over the weekend, the gala brought together community leaders, alumni, donors, and supporters. The commemorative event honored a decade of dedicated service, community building, and transformative educational support. Since its inception, the foundation has remained steadfast in its mission to empower deserving but financially disadvantaged students working to complete their college degrees at the University of the Philippines Visayas and its extensions, such as UP Tacloban, having disbursed over 10.6 million pesos in grants and supported 78 college graduates, including 9 magna cum laude and 61 cum laude honorees, plus 1 Cinemalaya Top 12 finalist.
The anniversary gala featured inspiring reflections on the organization’s journey, cultural presentations, an oblation auction, and heartfelt scholarship testimonials highlighting the tangible impact of the foundation’s programs over the last ten years.
UP alumna Loida Nicolas Lewis, a prominent author, philanthropist, attorney, and former Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice International who made history as the first Asian woman to pass the New York State Bar without studying in a U.S. law school, served as the guest speaker for the event and generously signed copies of her book, Why Should Guys Have All the Fun? Proceeds from the successful fundraising event will directly benefit the ongoing scholarship fund, ensuring that more students receive essential support for academic needs, including textbooks, technology, and living stipends.
Adding her voice to the milestone celebration, Board Chair Lory Dolar emphasized the collective spirit of the foundation, sharing her vision for the decade ahead by challenging supporters to “dream bigger” and triple the organization’s impact by 2036, reminding attendees that “it doesn’t cost a centavo to dream.”
As One UPV Foundation (USA) looks ahead, the organization extends its deepest gratitude to the volunteers, sponsors, and community members whose unwavering commitment made this milestone celebration possible.
CONTACT:
Lory Dolar – Board Chair, ONE UPV Foundation (USA), Inc. oneupvusa@gmail.com
