Asian Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan (XU) - University Ranking
University Description (Ranking at bottom)
Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan (XU) is a private Catholic university located in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.
Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan was founded in 1933 by Fr James TG Hayes SJ, Superior of the Philippine Jesuit mission and first Bishop and Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro. In the next 11 years, the two-storey wooden building along Burgos Street that schooled 17 high school male students mushroomed into several buildings along Corrales Street with 614 students. This studentry came from the existing high school; from the college department that was added in 1938 with course offerings in Liberal Arts, Education, and Commerce; and from the Grade School, established in 1940. All these were brought to the ground during the outbreak of World War II which forced the school to close on December 9, 1941. The chemistry laboratory then was used to extract quinine for the government forces. Later on, the campus was used as the Northern Mindanao headquarters of the Japanese troops after they entered Cagayan de Oro on May 2, 1942.
Soon after Cagayan de Oro was freed from the Japanese forces, the school was reduced to rubble when on September 9, 1944, American planes began bombing Cagayan de Oro. “Those liberators wrecked the town of Cagayan and its wharves. When the day was over the old transit showed our college in ruins, the century old cathedral gone, and the lovely house of the Bishop a heap of concrete,” wrote Fr Edward Haggerty SJ, then-Rector of the Ateneo de Cagayan. His successor, Fr Andrew F Cervini SJ, sought the reconstruction of the school. Through their efforts and with the assistance of local and foreign benefactors, the school reopened in 1946 with the usual classes held in partially-restored buildings.
By 1946, collegiate program offerings included Bachelor of Arts, Pre-Legal, and Commerce. The Ateneo de Cagayan Graduate School was opened in 1948. The College of Agriculture was started by Fr William F Masterson SJ in 1953 and the Manresa Farm in 1955. The College of Law also started operations the same year.
In March 1958, two years after Fr Francisco Araneta SJ became Rector, Ateneo de Cagayan was granted the university status. At its inauguration on August 27, 1958, Ateneo de Cagayan was called “Xavier University,” in honor of St Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary to the Indies and companion of St Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus. The alumni, however, insisted the school to retain the “Ateneo de Cagayan” in the official name of the university. In response, the administration combined the old and new names of the school, and thenceforth, known as “Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan.” It became the first university in Mindanao and the first Jesuit university in the Philippines.
Fr Francisco Araneta SJ further explains that the change of name “merely crystallized an old spirit that always had been the soul of all Ateneo schools, the spirit of learning and service, the spirit of purposeful scholarship.”
University Analysis
Here is some information about Xavier University:
- History and Identity: Xavier University was founded in 1933 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) as the Ateneo de Cagayan. It is one of the oldest Jesuit universities in the Philippines. The university emphasizes Jesuit values such as academic excellence, social justice, and the formation of well-rounded individuals.
- Academics: XU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university is organized into different colleges, including the College of Agriculture, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Computer Studies, College of Engineering, College of Nursing, College of Education, and many others. XU is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, business, education, and nursing.
- Research and Innovation: Xavier University promotes research and innovation as part of its mission. The university is engaged in research collaborations, technology transfer, and community-based projects. XU has research institutes and centers focusing on areas such as climate change, disaster risk reduction, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
- Campus and Facilities: The main campus of Xavier University is located in uptown Cagayan de Oro and covers a significant area. The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and student dormitories. The university provides a conducive environment for learning and personal growth.
- Community Engagement and Outreach: XU is deeply involved in community engagement and outreach initiatives. The university places a high value on social responsibility and fostering positive change in society. Students are encouraged to participate in service-learning activities, community projects, and immersion programs to address social issues and contribute to the community’s development.
- Internationalization: Xavier University promotes internationalization through various programs, partnerships, and collaborations. The university offers study abroad opportunities, exchange programs, and internships in partnership with other universities and institutions worldwide. XU also hosts international students and provides a diverse and multicultural learning environment.
- Spiritual Formation: As a Catholic institution, Xavier University provides opportunities for spiritual formation and religious activities. The university encourages students to deepen their faith, engage in reflection and prayer, and participate in retreats and religious organizations. XU fosters a holistic education that nurtures the spiritual growth of its students.
- Cultural and Arts Programs: Xavier University values cultural and artistic expression. The university supports various cultural organizations, arts performances, and exhibitions. XU hosts events that celebrate local traditions, promote Filipino arts and culture, and develop artistic talents among its students.
- Alumni Network: Xavier University has a strong and active alumni network. XU alumni have made notable contributions in various fields, including politics, business, education, healthcare, and social work. The alumni association provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and lifelong learning.
Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan is known for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and holistic development. The university’s focus on community engagement, research, and values formation creates a nurturing environment for students. XU’s long-standing reputation, vibrant campus life, and dedication to serving the community make it a prestigious institution in the Philippines.
XU Trunk line Number: (088) 853-9800
Address: Xavier University Ateneo de Cagayan, Corrales Avenue, Cagayand e Oro
City, Philippines
