UMECIT commemorated its 22nd anniversary with a program developed at its different locations, which brought together students, teachers, graduates, authorities, collaborators and other members of the university community.

This commemoration allowed us to recognize the path we have traveled, to thank those who have been part of our history, and to renew our commitment to continue offering an education that is close, humane, and geared towards the formation of well-rounded professionals.

A start to be grateful for

The commemorative program began on July 21 with a mass in which the university community had the opportunity to give thanks. 

This meeting allowed us to recognize the efforts that have accompanied the construction of the University and to renew our commitment to a quality education with a human focus.

On July 21st and 25th, the traditional birthday singing took place at the different campuses. Students, teachers, administrators, and staff shared this moment, highlighting the sense of belonging that defines us as a community.

An iconic activity has returned

As part of the anniversary program, this year we resumed the national election of the UMECIT Queens, a significant activity for our university life that returned with a focus on leadership, talent, comprehensive training and student representation.

The UMECIT Queen 2026 pageant took place on July 25th at the university's campuses in Panama City, La Chorrera, Santiago, Chitré, and David. Participation was voluntary and allowed the university to recognize students willing to represent their abilities, ideas, social awareness, and sense of belonging.

In Panama City, a single event was held that brought together students from the Fundadores, Veneto, Megamall, International Bilingual Institute and Master's programs buildings.

Each candidate presented a talent and participated in a round of questions aimed at assessing her communication skills, leadership, analysis, institutional knowledge and ability to handle different situations.

Music, dance, singing, folklore, recitation, and other artistic expressions showcased the creativity, authenticity, and diversity of talents present in our students.

A performance with a purpose

The selection of the UMECIT Queen 2026 was not solely focused on appearance. Its purpose was to recognize students capable of representing the University through their character, education, social awareness, leadership, and willingness to serve.

To ensure an objective evaluation, each venue had a jury composed of representatives from different stakeholder groups within the university community. These members assessed each participant's talent presentation, communication skills, leadership, institutional projection, and sense of belonging, following criteria common to the entire country.

As a result of the contest, five UMECIT 2026 Queens and five first runners-up were chosen, one representative for each participating venue.

During their twelve-month reign, the winners will participate as UMECIT ambassadors in academic, cultural, community, and institutional outreach activities. The first runners-up will accompany them during this period and may represent their campuses when necessary.

This role represents a genuine commitment to the University. We expect our queens to use their voice, talent, and leadership to support initiatives that strengthen student life and UMECIT's relationship with the communities it serves.

A coordinated effort across the country

The programming for the 22nd anniversary was made possible thanks to the collaborative work of University Welfare, the academic coordinators, the campus coordinators and a large group of administrative collaborators who actively joined the organization.

Behind every activity there were people coordinating the spaces, accompanying the participants, handling the logistics, inviting the community and taking care of the details necessary for the development of each day.

This effort allowed us to maintain the same institutional intention in all locations, respecting the particularities of each region and ensuring that our community could feel part of a national celebration.

We especially thank the judges for taking on the evaluation of the candidates with responsibility and professionalism; the students who participated voluntarily; and all the people who contributed their time, experience and willingness to make this program possible.

Twenty-two years that we continue building together

What we experienced during this commemoration was not just a celebration. It was a way to reaffirm our institutional values and demonstrate that respect, collaboration, leadership, service, and a sense of belonging are expressed in the way we work and build together.

We congratulate the five UMECIT 2026 Queens, the five first runners-up, and all the candidates who agreed to be part of this experience.

We also thank our students, teachers, graduates, authorities, coordinators and collaborators for being part of these 22 years of history.

UMECIT continues to grow with its people, recognizing the value of each campus and renewing its commitment to an education that responds to the needs of its community and contributes positively to society.