It is said that the success of an educational institution in carrying out its role, to impart knowledge and values, may be gauged by the performance of its most valuable stakeholders — the students. This is where Foundation University takes its anchor in shaping its students’ future.
Since its establishment in 1949, the university has succeeded in serving as home and training ground for many individuals. The inspiring story of Rosemarie Fabruada-Daher is a solid evidence of FU’s success in producing notable citizens of the society.
Today’s generation will, no doubt, find the story of Rose Daher inspiring. Many will be able to identify with her, having been able to rise above many challenges. Those who have known her would often say that Rose had an amazing journey from her humble beginnings as a sidewalk cigarette vendor at the Dumaguete Public Market to becoming the proprietress and Assistant CEO of the Al-Reef Lebnani L.L.C (Dolphin Hotel & Al-Reef Al-Lebnani Restaurant, Sweets and Bakery) in Oman.
Her story, from the time that she was a student, boldly spells determination. While other students had the luxury of time to keep up with schoolwork, Rose worked to make ends meet. This, however, did not stop her from dreaming big. With a great deal of motivation, Rose managed to constantly be on top of her class. She was a consistent recipient of the first honor award both in grade school and high school. She completed her secondary education at Foundation University in 1977, having enjoyed a full scholarship grant for four years.
Rose then continued her academic journey and finished a bachelor’s degree specializing in Pharmacy at the University of the Philippines — Diliman, with a full grant-in-aid scholarship. With her intellectual capability, she managed to land on the top 15th spot at the conclusion of the October 1984 Pharmacist Licensure Examination.
Rose practiced her profession in the country with utmost diligence, enabling her to earn various recognitions. Wanting to enhance her potentials and efficiency, she attended a good number of extensive seminars and trainings. She also joined several Philippine Pharmaceutical Organizations like the Philippine Pharmaceutical Manufacturer’s Association, Philippine Pharmaceutical Association, and Philippine Association of Pharmacists in the Pharmaceutical Industry.
After serving the country for a considerable number of years, Rose Daher moved to Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, where she is a registered member of the Ministry of Health Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control. Rose considers Oman as her second home, where, apart from being a business enthusiast, she performs her most vital role as wife to her Lebanese husband, Mahmoud Daher, and a doting mother to her sons, Habib Daher and Wassim Daher.
Even many years after she graduated from Foundation University and left the country, Rose Daher continuously embodies what a true Foundationite ought to be. It is in this light that she was chosen as FU Outstanding Alumna for 2012 in the field of Corporate Business Management. Her return to Foundation University during the 2012 Alumni Homecoming, where she accepted her recognition, became an avenue for her to once again exhibit her dedication to the university.
She chose to give back to her alma mater by means of generously contributing to the various endeavors of the alumni association. She invaluably supported the physical advancement of the Alumni Suites and the realization of FU’s pursuit for quality education by providing scholarships for academically qualified but financially challenged students.
For her success and the opportunity to help and touch other people’s lives, Rose Daher holds deep gratitude to her family, friends, FUHS batch mates, mentors, and most importantly, the Almighty Father for His perfect guidance, love, and protection.
It truly is amazing that in a lifetime, you get to see somebody like Rose Fabruada-Daher. Her life story has shown that success is definitely achievable. With the right formula of determination and passion, one will surely make it.
