Reflections of Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul

Fifteen years ago, the then vicepresident and current rector of the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Joaquim Clotet, planned and directed the first encounter of the Reflections Project, an initiative that turned into a tradition of ongoing training for teachers and administrative technicians.

This project, an initiative inserted into the institutional planning, aims to review the history and the inspiration that gave rise to the Marist Institute, to clarify the identity, purpose, objectives and challenges of the University in the context of a globalized world, as well as to provide space for listening and for dialogue among employees.

This year, the presentations of managers and discussions in groups mobilized 119 participants that gathered in Bento Gonçalves from May 21 – 23.

According to Eduardo Seidl, professor of the Faculty of Social Communications, “the encounter was important to get to know the diversity of the PUCRS and the interaction with colleagues.”

“It was also exciting to learn about the report on the life stories that are grounded in the University,” he said in reference to the testimonies that were introduced in the panel titled Commitment and Integration.

Patrícia Wanding, of the legal office of the PUCRS, described the opportunity as “great because of the exchange with the rectors because a lot of information turned out to be new.”

“We always feel more engaged when we know where we work,” she added, referring to the relationship of co-responsibility generated between the University and its employees.

Since its beginning in 2000, the Reflections Project hado ver 2,300 participants. Several proposals made in the working groups over time have been reflected in the academic and administrative life, such as the Strategic Plan and Faith and Culture Project, among others.

The Provincial of Rio Grande do Sul, brother Inácio Etges, participated in the encounter as well as the rector and other members of the University’s administration.