In his 16 years as President of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas,
Br. Augustine “Gus” Boquer has inspired many Lasallians with his transformative leadership. He has set a vision for the University which he has turned into a reality.
Even to educators, Br. Gus is a teacher who imparts valuable lessons. Former Communications and Journalism Department Chair and Strategic Communications Office Director Rosanni Sarile, shared that during her time working with the Brother President, she learned the drive to achieve perfection, the art of being proactive, and of course being professional.
Vice Chief Administrative Officer for Academics and Research Dr. Marco Saez, meanwhile, said that he has always been impressed by the Brother President's attention to detail, even despite the many responsibilities that Br. Gus had to juggle in his position. This unique trait has brought the University to a whole new level of sophistication, particularly in events management, he said.
Museo de la Salle Director Cecille Gelicame, for her part, said that in her years receiving direction and inspiration from the Brother President, his guidepost “Dominem Opus Dei” (Lord, the work is Yours) has given her courage to continue her Lasallian mission.
For student leaders, past and present, the Brother President was an inspiration, since he always saw the potential in everyone. He was also described as an influencer in the truest sense of the word, because he motivated people to take action. Br. Gus was also considered an extraordinary leader who considers that not all people are the same, but everyone must be treated with respect.
For staff members, Br. Gus is a good role model who has empathy and compassion for all. He demonstrates his caring through concrete actions and inspires his subordinates through serving as an example.
As he is set to complete his term and welcome his new mission, here is a glimpse at how Br. Gus will be remembered by administrators, faculty, students, and staff as a cherished leader of DLSU-D.
His attention to details is remarkable. He brought DLSU-D to another level of sophistication in terms of event management -- Dr. Marco Saez
Br. Gus is a leader with unparalleled passion and dedication in the service of God and the Lasallian community. -- Dr. Nathaniel Golla
From my years working with Br. Gus, I learned the value of perfection, being proactive and being professional – Rosanni Sarile
Research has been in the forefront of Br. Gus’ leadership. This started with the Cavite Development Research Program which encouraged researchers to take an active stance in using research not only to understand pressing concerns but solve these. The University was encouraged and supported to pursue research through various departmental and institutional funding. Research dissemination and utilization were given priority through the institutional journals, wherein ALJEH became the first international journal. All in all, as regards research, DLSU-D is truly blessed to have Br. Gus as its captain. – Dr. Jonathan Gochuico
I always have this chance to speak with and receive directions, instructions, or words of inspiration from the Brother President. My guide post, which Br. Gus would always say "Dominem Opu, Tum. Lord, the work is Yours. And that comforts me and gives me courage. -- Cecille Gelicame
I've first met Br. Gus during his last year as principal, which was my first year in HS, at LSGH. Br. Gus was strict and diligent with punctuality, grooming (including having undershirt and the right color of socks! ), with fine social graces, and behaving properly as gentlemen – something that every LSGH alumnus would know as a habit and a standard… 20 years thereafter, as head of Campus Sustainability Office then, I often encountered Br. Gus giving suggestions and instructions on what he expected. For some, those instructions might be seen as demanding, but trusting his wisdom you'll realize in the end that "Ah, tama naman pala" and " ang ganda pala nang kalabasan". I call them Br. Gus' touch - simple but elegant and with class - something that epitomizes how a Lasallian should be. – Marlon Pareja
I would consider the Brother President as an encouraging leader who is always supportive of our efforts to innovate introduce technological tools and applications to facilitate the University’s smooth operation. We at the ICTC appreciate his support. Thank you Brother, for your great leadership. – Ma. Kristina Miciano
Br. Gus is an intelligent and visionary man. He is also very composed in the way he speaks. He always thinks before he speaks and acts and he is capable of managing his emotions efficiently -- Jac Gabriel
Br. Gus is faithful in action and generously shares words of wisdom -- Cherry Grey
Br. Gus is intelligent, diligent, faithful, and a good leader -- Babylyn Aranes Taburnal
Our Brother President has empathy and respect for everyone -- Jane Palad
Simply said, Br. Gus is a good leader -- Dhar Cadavedo
Br. Gus is the character of a role model -- Felix Sarreal II
Our Brother President is compassionate to those who are in need, especially in family hospitalization. In my case, he allowed the advance release of my monetary benefits because of an urgent purpose. Thank you, Br. Gus, during our trying times, you saved my loved one’s life. Though it was my privilege, you allowed me to take at the critical time. Wishing you more power to share yourself to those in need. Lagi po kayong mag iingat -- Ann Derain
Br. Gus is inspiring. He always sees the potential in people and in every circumstance --Riza Delector, former USC President
Br. Gus as a leader positively influences other people to have a shared vision for the university -- Engr. Michael V. Manguerra, former CSO president
The Brother President is extraordinary. Why extraordinary? Hindi sa tagal ng taon pero sa experience na meron siya at sa mga challenges na hinaharap niya and that what makes a leader unique. Yung iba iba ang nakakasalamuha mo pagdating mo sa loob at labas ng journey na meron ka. Kasi hindi sa lahat ng oras people that you will talk to are the same. But they are actually different in their own ways. Tulad nga ng sabi ni Br. Gus while I'm listening to his speech as a normal student when I entered La Salle, people will not always be kind to you and you have to do what is best for your own journey. -- Niña Marie Ligan, outgoing USG President
From all of us at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, our heartfelt thanks, Br. Gus! You have taught our minds, touched our hearts, and transformed our lives with your visionary leadership. We have been truly blessed to have you as our President. ♥♥♥