A day with an author and their work
Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo INTEC

Rector's words 
Dr. Rolando M. Guzmán

November 20th 2014

Distinguished members of the Board of Regents and Academic Council of INTEC
Dear managers, teachers, students and other members of the Intecian community
Dear professors and students from other institutions
Dear professor Idelisa Bonnelly de Calventi, and with you, your children, your grandchildren and granddaughters, and other relatives
Ladies and Gentlemen

Once again, we gather in this room to pay tribute to the example of an outstanding personality whose life represents an example of human values, scientific contributions, or artistic achievements. It is an event that we have held for several years, and in which we have had the joy of finding a diversity of talents that dazzle and inspire us.

On this occasion, however, we begin this act with the feeling that in many respects it is a first time. For the first time, for example, the person who is the object of our admiration is a woman / whose outstanding activity has been in the scientific field. And that means that, for the first time, we have a winner whose contribution is perhaps not visible to the general public, since it has largely taken place in the sobriety of laboratories or in the quiet silence of the seabed.    

These elements make this moment a special occasion for the entire intetian community, and for the institutions that accompany us in this act of recognition. We know that by honoring Professor Idelisa, we are honoring many women who have made contributions in the scientific field over the years, centuries and millennia, but who have rarely received the applause they deserve.

I must also say, however, that the scientific dimension is only one of the facets of which this exemplary life is composed. In the following minutes, we will also appreciate the human being and celebrate the philosophy of life of those who define themselves in the following way: “I am a person who has had the privilege of doing what he wants and of being able to serve my country, to my community, to my society ”. Our recognition, therefore, is not limited to the scientific one, but extends to the mother, the wife, the sister, the friend and the citizen.

Thank you, Professor Idelisa, for giving us an example to follow, and know that by dedicating this morning to the celebration of your work, we do so driven by a sense of gratitude for what you represent for Dominican society. Our intention is to make sure that our youth know about you and value the fruits of the work that you have done for so many years. And we also hope that, many years later, when none of us is present, the youth of the future will receive as a gift the following advice that you have given us in words and that you have confirmed with your actions: “Persevere when you believe that something is important and must be done. Remember that there are always alternatives that must be experienced. Have an open mind for innovation. Don't be afraid to admit that you don't know, and keep in mind that there is always time to learn ”.

Ladies and gentlemen, enjoy this event and have a happy rest of the day.

Thank you so much!