As part of the activities commemorating the 31st anniversary of the University of Las Tunas (ULT), in one of the most expected moments, Dr. Claudina Quintero Díaz, a Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, received the title of Professor Emeritus, which recognizes those who have dedicated their lives to the training of professionals and the advancement of knowledge.

Las Tunas, Cuba.– “Receiving this title is a great honor. I am deeply moved, because it is a way of acknowledging all that I have done,” said Quintero Díaz. She recalled that her connection with the university dates back decades: “I have always worked here. I started working on August 27, 1990. This has been my only workplace, and I will continue here; this is my home.”

For Claudina Quintero, the University is the cradle of her comprehensive education. “So, what I am as a professional I owe to the University, because there is a great commitment to help professors improve themselves, both scientifically and in their teaching. And that has been very rewarding,” she said gratefully.

The honor took on an even greater dimension when she shared the recognition with two colleagues with long and distinguished careers. “Furthermore, receiving this distinction at a special time, when it was awarded to Doctors of Pedagogical Sciences Celia Díaz Castillo and José Ignacio Reyes González, makes the honor I feel even greater, to be alongside these two colleagues. They have a longer track record than I do, because they have been with this institution longer than I have,” concluded the professor, whose example will continue to be a guiding light for new generations of educators in Las Tunas.

When asked what message she would leave for the young university teachers beginning their journey in classrooms, Claudina smiled and said, “Don't give up in the face of difficulties. Teaching is a mission; sometimes resources are lacking, but what abounds is vocation. If you love what you do, the students perceive it, and then all the sacrifice is worthwhile. That's what I've learned in these thirty-odd years: the University gives you everything if you give it everything too.”

Her example will undoubtedly continue to be a beacon for the new generations, who will always remember her for that passion that still burns as brightly as it did on the first day of August 1990.