“𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗬𝗲𝘁 𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿”: 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘀𝗮 𝘁𝗼 𝗗𝗢𝗿𝗦𝗨- 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘆𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘆 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

“Not yet doesn’t mean not ever. It simply means not now.” This was the heartfelt reminder from Dr. Joy M. Sorrosa, President of Davao del Norte State College (DNSC), as she inspired the graduating class of 2025 of Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) – Banaybanay Extension Campus during the 2025 Commencement Exercises today, June 23.
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The message, drawn from her personal and professional journey, centered on patience, perseverance, and the belief that success unfolds in its own time. Dr. Sorrosa, who once served as a faculty member and administrator at DOrSU during its days as DOSCST, returned to the university as the honored commencement speaker, bringing with her stories of growth, struggle, and triumph.
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“Davao Oriental State University holds a special place in my heart,” she shared, expressing gratitude to the mentors and colleagues who shaped her. “The wisdom and opportunities you gave me became the foundation of my journey.”
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Speaking before university officials led by DOrSU President Dr. Roy G. Ponce, along with faculty, staff, parents, and graduates, Dr. Sorrosa reminded the students that success is not measured by how quickly it arrives, but by how firmly one holds on to purpose and resilience.
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“Often, we look at delays and failures as dead ends,” she explained. “But remember this: Not yet doesn’t mean not ever. It simply means not now, not today, not this time. But your time will come — and when it does, it will be worth every moment of waiting and every setback you’ve overcome.”
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Dr. Sorrosa encouraged the graduates to reflect on their dreams and align them with a deeper purpose. “Accomplishments alone cannot nourish the soul. So, chase purpose. Anchor it in why you strive,” she advised, urging the graduates to ask themselves: “What do you want to become after graduation? What legacy do you wish to leave?”
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She also emphasized that success requires not only intelligence but grit — the passion and perseverance for long-term goals. Quoting psychologist Angela Duckworth, she reminded the students that those who thrive are not always those with the highest IQ, but those with the highest Adversity Quotient (AQ) — the ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
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“Tough times never last, but tough people do,” she added, reminding them that mindset, determination, and the ability to rise after every fall are what will define their future.
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Dr. Sorrosa also addressed the pressing social issues affecting Filipino communities, including the rise of depression, teen pregnancy, cyberbullying, and the erosion of moral values. “The need goes far beyond financial aid. There is a growing cry for emotional support, attention, and moral guidance,” she warned.
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In closing, she challenged the graduates to stand out — not just for their academic achievements, but for their character, compassion, and commitment to making a difference. “You were educated not just to earn, but to enlighten. Be known not only for your intellect but for your integrity — the kind that chooses compassion over trends, and integrity over shortcuts.”
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As the Class of 2025 prepares to take the next step, Dr. Sorrosa’s message resonates as a reminder that patience, purpose, and perseverance are the true foundations of success — and that when the right time comes, dreams do come true. (DOrSU PIO)