By Cynthia Shank
In 1899, Dr. Horace Brinsmade Silliman appeared at the Presbyterian Board of Foreign Missions office with $10,000 on one hand and a dedication for education on the other. He was driven by the belief that Filipinos were in need of education and donated his money for the formation of a school in the Philippines. About a century later, the fruits of his incredible generosity bloomed through a prestigious institution that has molded countless lives over the years.
On May 2, 2025, Silliman University (SU) commemorated the 115th death anniversary of its founder, Dr. Silliman. As is the custom, Silliman Hall was the venue for a festive yet solemn celebration.
Students, staff, administrators, and faculty gathered not just to celebrate the name that will forever intertwine with the university, but to also appreciate the fervent foresight of a man with remarkable vision and kindness.
The gathering began with a welcome address by Atty. Pristine M. Raymond, president of the Silliman Alumni Association Inc. (SAAI) Dumaguete Chapter. Together with SU president Dr. Betty Cernol-McCann, they led the celebration of Dr. Silliman’s spirit-filled legacy.
“While recalling Dr. Silliman’s life, faith, generosity, and the influence he had on us as well as our community, we, as always, celebrate God’s love, which is unchanging,” we intoned.
The atmosphere of reflection and reverence deepened as the program continued.
In his stirring speech, “A Seed was Planted,” Presbyterian USA Missionary Mr. Carlton Palm reminded the audience that what started as a single act of generosity has changed the lives of countless people, raised generations of scholars, and developed a university community based on excellence, service, and spiritual foundation.
The memorial candle, at the heart of the ceremony stood as a simple yet deeply meaningful symbol. Placed at the foot of Dr. Silliman’s statue, the candle stood beneath his bust, where he was also ceremonially adorned with a flower necklace draped gently around his neck by the university’s president.
The candle, symbolic of the light he sparked through education and faith, was lit under the direction of Ms. Fredita R. Tan, president of the SU Medical Center Foundation, Inc. (SUMCFI)— a tribute to the legacy he left behind.
Its flame, a silent testament to the light Silliman continues to be in many people’s lives. As a last gesture of respect, Dr. McCann, Atty. Raymond, and Ms. Tan presented flowers at the grave site. Every bloom placed was more than just a token gesture; it was a pledge to uphold Dr. Silliman’s vision, a silent prayer of gratitude, and a reaffirmation of dedication.
Despite never setting foot in the university itself, the spirit of Dr. Silliman is felt all around. The institution SU has become was built from the generosity of the man who believed in the value of education. By honoring his life, we continue his legacy.
