Tribute to Women with the Cecilia Rojas de Nieto Medal 2025

In a moving ceremony, UMECIT presented the Cecilia Rojas de Nieto 2025 Medal, recognizing exceptional women for their impact on academia and society. The event was opened by the Vice-Rector General, Dr. Claudia Marcela Rueda, a distinguished female leader, who stated in her speech:

"Commemorating International Women's Day is an opportune moment to reflect on the achievements made over the years; but even more important is to commit ourselves, as an integral part of society, to the changes that will lead us toward substantive equality in our society. Today we gather to honor the courage, effort, passion, and determination of exceptional women who, with their dedication, are making a difference in their communities, in their professional, work, and family lives, and in the lives of those around them."

She also shared significant figures on female representation at the University, highlighting that 65,881 women hold administrative positions, of which 65,211 are management and decision-making positions. Regarding the student population, 611 women are women, with significant participation in areas such as Health Sciences (731 women) and Law and Forensic Sciences (641 women).

Distinctions Awarded

In the 2025 edition, the "Cecilia Rojas de Nieto" medals were awarded to exceptional women in five categories:

Panama

Professional Woman of the Year: Dr. Yessica Sáez Barrios and Master Karen Chalmers.
Administrative Woman of the Year: Dr. Gressy Loaldy Zúñiga Ávila.
Female Teacher of the Year: Cristina Aneth Murillo Navas.
Female Graduate of the Year: Mixela Iveth Samaniego Cedeño.
Female Student of the Year: Nathalie Cubilla Dixon.

La Chorrera

Female Teacher of the Year: Dr. Kerubis Harris.
Female Graduate of the Year: Julissa del Carmen Pineda González.
Female Student of the Year: Maria de los Angeles Ramirez Ortega.

Recognizing Exceptional Career Paths

Dr. Yessica Sáez Barrios: Distinguished in electronic and telecommunications engineering, recognized for her innovative projects ELENA and MOVIDIS that have revolutionized the health sector and accessibility.
Master Karen Chalmers: A social communicator and advocate for social causes, she has been honored for her impact on the media and her work in cancer prevention and supporting vulnerable communities.
Dr. Gressy Loaldy Zúñiga Ávila: Recognized for its track record in university accreditation and its commitment to higher education at UMECIT.
Cristina Murillo Navas: Awarded for her significant contribution to education and the health sector since joining UMECIT in 2023.
Mixela Samaniego Cedeño: Awarded for her work in the inclusion and defense of the rights of people with disabilities.
Nathalie Cubilla Dixon: Recognized for her effort, academic commitment and ability to excel.
Dr. Kerubis Harris: Distinguished in leadership, efficiency, and innovation in education, with a track record that promotes inclusion and solidarity.
Julissa del Carmen Pineda GonzálezHonored for her leadership in social initiatives, such as the “Building a Dream” project.
Maria de los Angeles Ramirez Ortega: Recognized for her academic participation and commitment to social initiatives in her community.

Brilliant and Outstanding Panelists

During the ceremony, two panels were held with distinguished guests, who shared their experiences and reflections on the role of women in today's society, inspiring those present to continue building a more equitable future.

1. Women leading change, science and social justice

Iguaigdigili Deidamia López Smith: She outlined the challenges indigenous women face on their path to education and professional advancement.
Representative Alexandra Brenes: She spoke about the challenges of entering politics, especially during her pregnancy, in spaces traditionally dominated by men.
Former Minister Doris Zapata: She highlighted the importance of female participation in decision-making and the need to close the employment gap.
Dr. Magdy De las Salas: She highlighted how universities provide opportunities for women to develop and face the challenges of their multiple roles.

2. Excellence and leadership: Innovation and security in professional academic management

Atheyna Baylon: She recounted her experience as a woman in sports and how she has made Panama a success in international competitions.
Paladin Light: She shared her experience in the Naval Air Service and how she faced challenges in predominantly male environments.
Dr. Gressy Zúñiga: She highlighted the teamwork at UMECIT, emphasizing the strength of female leadership in the accreditation process.
Dr. Mauricio Sierra: She highlighted the significant female representation in academia and its impact on the training of professionals who contribute to the country's development.

This tribute reflects UMECIT's commitment to gender equality and the promotion of female leadership, recognizing the effort, dedication, and positive impact of exemplary women in various spheres of society.